The St. Louis Zoo and Ameren Missouri partnership brings fresh branches or “browse” cut down during line maintenance to the zoo to help feed the animals.

Congratulations to all those nominated! HEC couldn’t carry out its mission to “strengthen the education, art, and cultural communities in the metropolitan area” without you and all our supporters! These nominations are for you, St. Louis! Arts/Entertainment- Program Feature Segment 15 Year-Old Short Film Director Kara Vaninger Brock Seals: New Artist, Old Soul Suzanne Vanderhoef, […]

When the Gateway Arch National Park showed off its impressive new look on July 3, HEC was there. In a series of behind-the-scenes segments on hecmedia.org, we looked at the new museum and Arch Grounds as well as the the National Park Service’s plans for the park. That day was a long time coming. The […]

Sit down for a one on one conversation with Tom Ridgely, Executive Producer of Shakespeare Festival St. Louis. Ridgely shares his hopes and dreams for SFSTL.

Nicole Paris is labeled the “Best Female Beat-boxer in the Saint Louis area”.

The ADL’s Torch of Liberty Award was established to celebrate those who, by word and deed, seek to preserve our heritage of liberty, freedom, and equality.

The Strauss Park ALIVE Festival is a two-month long celebration of community and the arts.

“Hand of Fate” shows at Mad Art Gallery in Soulard.

Area filmmakers have their works shown in the 17th Annual Whitaker St. Louis Filmmakers Showcase presented by Cinema St. Louis.

Join HEC-TV and Saint Louis University on this groundbreaking journey to unearth medieval Ireland.

In “Weaving as Ritual and Art,” the Dark Room adds Emily Oliver’s textiles to their usual repertoire of photography and performing arts.

The St. Louis Art Museum presents “Reigning Men: Fashion in Menswear, 1715-2015,” an exhibition which examines the evolution of the male form and appearance.

The Whitaker Music Festival at the Missouri Botanical Garden celebrates its 24th year of bringing local music to St. Louis audiences.

Kranzberg Arts Center presents Artists First: Variation and Adaptations, an exhibit highlighting the work of artists with disabilities.

Influential American artist Glenn Ligon offers a lyrical meditation on the colors blue and black.

The Sheldon is currently featuring the works of Vita Eruhimovitz, a multimedia artist exploring the complicated relation between the physical and virtual world.

Paul Schankman shows us this year’s Urban Wanderers art exhibit to benefit Stray Rescue of St. Louis, and why this is their biggest and best show yet.

Inspired by nature, Craig Mitchell Smith has crafted thirty glass sculptures especially for the Missouri Botanical Garden.

For May and June, the Bruno David Gallery will be showing exhibitions by William Conger, Judy Child, Kelley Johnson, Bunny Burson, and Michael Byron.

Visit the Contemporary Art Museum this summer to challenge your ideas about urban development and see work from KAWS and 2016 Creative Stimulus Award winners.

Displacement and Migration, the newest exhibition at the St. Louis Artists’ Guild, explores the complex theme of forced and voluntary relocation.

The typical St. Louis goes family-friendly and wild with Metro Theater Company’s Toy Fest!

The St. Louis Art Museum honors the designs of Stephen Jones with an exhibit highlighting the relationship between great works of art and his famous creations.

World War I: Missouri and the Great War at Missouri History Museum explores the vital roles the men and women of St. Louis played in WWI.

In dual exhibitions, Gallery 210 at UMSL and the Kranzberg Arts Center Gallery present an exhibit examining contemporary urban issues.

The Modern Meal: Sustenance Through Ritual, the newest exhibit at the Kemper Art Museum on the campus of Wash U, examines humanity’s relationship with mealtime.

Creativity & Identity: An American-Muslim Exhibition is St. Louis’ first art exhibition made up entirely of works from local Muslim artists.

The Bruno David Gallery presents works from Yvette Drury Dubinsky, Carmon Colangelo, and Jacob Laws during the month of April.

Laumeier Sculpture Park presents an exhibition in celebration and commemoration of its 40th Anniversary year.

The Saint Louis Art Museum hosts Shimon Attie’s site specific installation of Lost in Space (After Huck) as a part of its long running Currents series.

Anew Nature is a furniture restoration and custom design company that provides leadership and training to men who have served prison time for felony offenses.

The World Chess Hall of Fame highlights local artists in “The Imagery of Chess: Saint Louis Artists.

Mayor Slay gives HEC an exclusive tour of the office he has called home for the past 16 years, sharing with viewers its original artwork and other treasurers.

MAUHAUS is St. Louis’ first, and currently only, cat café. This unique business is dedicated to helping stray cats find homes.

A new league is trying to capitalize on St. Louis’ rich wrestling history, by staging semi-monthly matches at the Casa Loma Ballroom in South St. Louis.

The Missouri History Museum’s newest exhibit presents a detailed look at St. Louis’ impactful history in the African American struggle for civil rights.

Contemporary Art Gallery at St. Louis Community College – Florissant Valley hosts the Black Girl Culture Art Exhibit.

The Saint Louis Art Museum hosts a preview of the Phoebe Dent Weil and Mark S. Weil private Renaissance and Baroque collection with “Learning to See.”

Wall Ball is a unique fundraising event for ArtScope at which artist create work on site while attendees bid on the pieces in a silent auction format.

While uniting choreographers across the country with local dance companies, Dance Saint Louis focuses on the topic of inspiring women with New Dance Horizons V.

The new episode of State of the Arts premiering in March comes to you from Delmar Hall. In this preview, host Paul Schankman takes you on a backstage tour.

The St. Louis Art Museum hosts its annual “Art in Bloom” show, which pairs works of art with custom floral arrangements.

The International Photography Hall of Fame and Museum presents Nicholas Orzio’s “Occupied Japan.”

The Mildred Lane Kemper Art Museum presents “Spectacle and Leisure in Paris: Degas to Mucha” and “Rosalyn Drexler: Who Does She Think She Is?”

Duane Reed Gallery showcases the works of innovative emerging artists Ethan Meyer, Dana Oldfather, and Jacob Berkowitz.

The Saint Louis Zoo hosts the Big Eyes, Big Minds – International Children’s Film Festival, featuring animated shorts made for kids and sometimes even by kids.

Ever wonder what’s in the World Chess Hall of Fame in St. Louis? Right now, it’s a look at Chess as art. Here is a tour produced by Paul Schankman.

CAM Looks at Identity and Representation with their Spring 2017 Exhibition

Students and faculty in the Jennings School District show their appreciation for one another in this inspiring and heartfelt video.

There is more to a person than what meets the eye.

Interact with civil rights activists and Blues musicians to explore how the power of Blues music affected, and was affected by, America’s Civil Rights movement.

Interact with civil rights activists and Blues musicians to explore how the power of Blues music affected, and was affected by, America’s Civil Rights movement.

Women of the Blues: A Coast-To-Coast Collection comes to the Nation Blues Museum.

St. Louis Photographer Susan Bennet’s new project entitled Undefined is on display at SOHA Studio+Gallery.

Interview with PGAV Destinations’s Jim Wible about his TEDxGatewayArch Bounce! talk on teamwork and how the best ideas don’t have to be yours.

Interview with T.R. Kidder about his TEDxGatewayArch Bounce! talk on climate change and what we can learn from history.

Interview with Mallory Nezam about his TEDxGatewayArch Bounce! talk on playing every day.

Interview with Travis Mossotti about his TEDxGatewayArch Bounce! talk on having a greater sense of awareness.

Interview with Jim Carrington about his TEDxGatewayArch Bounce! talk on the future of food and farming.

Better Family Life in St. Louis unveiled their “Art and Empowerment” mural, which is the largest Black History Mural in Missouri, painted by artist, Gonz Jove.

The St. Louis Blues and the St. Louis Public Library form a groundbreaking partnership through a new exhibit honoring the NHL franchise’s rich history.

Garden Glow, one of Missouri Botanical Garden’s most beloved signature events, returns this holiday season.

In an effort to boost tourism in St. Louis, Union Station has created a family fun venue celebrating the winter holidays.

Vita Eruhimovitz’s “Synthetic Landscapes” examines the natural world through the lens of a digitally created, mixed media installation at Kranzberg Arts Center.

The St. Louis International Film Festival continues to provide the opportunity for St. Louis filmgoers to view the finest in world cinema.

DANCEstl presents Romeo & Juliet starring Grand Rapids Ballet at the Touhill Performing Arts Center November 4th and 5th.

The Saint Louis Art Museum re-opens their American Gallery with both familiar works and pieces which have not been seen by the public in more than a decade.

.ZACK is the newest cultural contribution from the Kranzberg Arts Foundation that will house nine resident performing arts organizations.

Artists throughout the St. Louis theater community stage “The Every 28 Hours Plays,” a compilation of 71 one-minute performances.

MADCO kicks off its 40th season with a special 2 day event designed to not only entertain but also engage the audience through the art of dance.

Bill T. Jones/Arnie Zane Company’s Analogy/Dora: Tramontane starts of the season for DANCEstl.

The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis brings together the theater community in an expo celebrating its 50th anniversary on the campus of Webster University.

Metro Theater’s “New Kid” delves into the immigration experience from the point of view of a child dealing with adapting to life in the United States.

The Saint Louis Art Fair and HEC-TV partnered on a new venture called “Meet The Artists” this year and it’s getting rave reviews!

CAM presents renowned contemporary artist Kelley Walker’s first museum solo exhibition.

This annual tradition brings together St. Louis arts programs on the path to peace in order to honor our city’s religious diversity.

The hair based art of Charlie Le Mindu is being featured in his first US solo exhibition at projects+gallery in St. Louis’ Central West End.

The Saint Louis Art Fair in Clayton Missouri features 181 artists, each with their own unique works.

Real / Radical / Psychological: The Collection on Display showcases numerous masterpieces from the Mildred Lane Kemper Art Museum’s permanent collection.

The St. Louis chapter of the League of Women Voters and the Missouri History Museum honor the centennial of the “Golden Lane.”

The Kranzberg Arts Center hosts “Haven,” an exhibition created by Andrea Tharian seeking to use three dimensional space to evoke a meditative experience.

Outside In: Paint for Peace showcases inspirational art that painted the city of Ferguson with hope following the events of 2014.

Stories of everyday individuals devoted to helping others find the rewards are more than they ever dreamed they could be!

The owner of St. Louis Union Station discusses plans for a $45 million aquarium and gives details about related attractions planned for the next two years.

In its fifth year, the St. Lou Fringe Fest showcases new and original performances from both St. Louis and across the nation.

Benjamin Frey is a painter who will be exhibiting at the 2017 Saint Louis Art Fair. Go to www.benjaminfrey.com for more information.

Thomas Spake is a glass artist who will be exhibiting at the 2017 Saint Louis Art Fair. Go to www.thomasspakestudios.com for more information.

Thomas Wargin is a sculptor who will be exhibiting at the 2017 Saint Louis Art Fair. Go to www.wargin.com for more information.

Benjamin Frey is a painter who will be exhibiting at the 2017 Saint Louis Art Fair. Go to www.reyalfonsostudio.com for more information.

Randy Dana is a photographer who will be exhibiting at the 2017 Saint Louis Art Fair. Go to www.randydana.com for more information.

Melissa Schmidt is a glass jewelry artist who will be exhibiting at the 2017 Saint Louis Art Fair. Go to www.melissaschmidtstudio.com for more information.

Sharon Smith, the Curator of Civic and Personal Identity at the Missouri History Museum, discusses the new Route 66 exhibit.

In this election year, interact with candidates and campaign officials to go behind the scenes of running a political campaign. What happens BEFORE we vote?

St. Louis Swap Meet will bring a riverfront marketplace to downtown on the third weekend of every month, through October.

Chris Grega, the director of “35 Days,” speaks about the Whitaker St. Louis Filmmakers Showcase, along with Cinema St. Louis’s artistic director, Chris Clark.

The Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis celebrates cat culture in the third and final Internet Cat Video Festival.

Easter Seals Midwest’s autism ambassador, Aaron Likens, speaks about his personal experience with Asperger Syndrome.

Life in 13th century Ireland, which was once a mystery, is about to be discovered in a first-of-its-kind archeological dig, documented exclusively by HEC-TV.

The Saint Louis Art Museum will present Self-Taught Genius: Treasures from the American Folk Art Museum from June 19 through September 11, 2016.

Shakespeare Festival St. Louis is staging one of the Bard’s most famous comedies, “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” as part of Shakespeare in the Park.

The Kranzberg Arts Center Gallery presents “Hidden Messages: The Subtlety of Oppression,” a poetry based exhibit by Darin Wigfall and Emily Timmerman.

Seed the Change was a weekend-long collaborative drawing art project along the St. Louis Riverfront using black sunflower seeds and millet.

Circus Flora is celebrating its 30th anniversary with a new baseball themed show that features acrobatics, tightropes, live animals, and much more!

The Bruno David Gallery in Saint Louis presents exhibits by Charles Reay, Daniel Raedeke, and Yvonne Osei. Reay and Osei discuss their work.

Dance St. Louis presents the ninth annual Spring To Dance Festival this Memorial Day weekend, featuring thirty different companies from across the country.

The city’s first “fresh” food truck is hitting the city’s streets where it is needed most!

The Craft Alliance Center of Art + Design showcases the works of five talented artists in their 2016 Artists-In-Residence Exhibition!

“The African Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater” takes the viewer on a photographic tour of the landscapes and animals of Africa.

The Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis’s 2016 Summer exhibitions featuring Mark Bradford, Tate Foley, Lyndon Barrois Jr., and Nanette Boileau.

Form and Function is the newest gallery to open at the Foundry Art Centre. The exhibit features works from artists all across the United States.

To help mark its 30th anniversary, Forest Park Forever will invite up to three artists to participate in an artist residency in Forest Park.

“Life with a Latin Beat” takes the viewer on a photographic tour of Mexico to the South American countries, including Brazil, Chile, Argentina, and Paraguay.

Italy is an extraordinary feast of heart-thumping, soul-stirring art, food and landscapes rivaled by few and coveted by millions.

“Antarctica Forever” features the beauty of Antarctica in photographs and music.

Denyce Graves adjudicated Opera Theatre of Saint Louis and Monsanto’s Artists in Training recital and scholarship competition.

Opera Theatre of St. Louis presents Opera Tasting! Delicious food and drinks are paired with music to titillate taste buds and delight ears across St. Louis.

“Andréa Stanislav: Convergence Infinité” is the 112th installment of the St. Louis Art Museum’s popular Currents series showcasing contemporary art.

See your favorite St. Louis actors and actresses live onstage and unscripted at this year’s Theater Circle Awards!

Take a look at some of the funniest moments from last years awards in the 2015 Theater Circle Awards Comedy Reel!

The highly anticipated 2016 St. Louis Theater Circle Awards is right around the corner and the Higher Education Channel (HEC-TV) has your ticket!

With their all-new 30th anniversary production, Circus Flora will celebrate St. Louis’ favorite summer activity – baseball!

“The Beauty of Saint Louis” takes the viewer on a photographic tour of St. Louis

“An American Tribute to Paris” takes the viewer on a photographic tour of Paris.

“Rocky Mountaineer Train Ride” takes the viewer on a photographic tour of the Canadian Rockies and Western Canada.

“Paris: An American Tribute to the Fallen French” is a video of Paris scenes honoring the victims of the terrorist attacks in Paris on November 13, 2015.

“In Memory of the Fallen Dutch” is a tribute to the nearly 200 Dutch victims of the Malaysian commercial plane that was shot down over the Ukraine.

“Ireland Remembered” takes the viewer on a photographic tour of the Irish countryside, its cities, towns, castles and seascapes.

“Quiet Reflections” transports the viewer to calm and lovely places around the world, accompanied by a classical composition by Dr. Barbara Harbach.

“The Flirtatious Penguins of Antarctica” is a video featuring Antarctic expedition with Chinstrap, Gentoo, Adelie and Emperor penguins in their natural habitat.

The Saint Louis Art Museum presents “A Decade of Collecting Prints, Drawings, and Photographs.”

Clowns on Call brings laughter, healing, cheer, and the wonders of circus to hospitalized children and their families.

Take your study of science, engineering and history to the pioneers of America’s space race. Interact with engineers who designed and built the Gemini capsule and the space systems that made it work.

St. Louis Contemporary Art Museum opens their Winter/Spring 2016 exhibitions featuring Lisa Yuskavage, Arcangelo Sassolino, and more.

The purpose of the symposium is to explore the movement for justice and social change after the death of teenager Michael Brown, Jr.

St. Louis resident Jessica Marie Baumgartner is launching a highly-anticipated science fiction novella Monday, Aug. 3, with European Geeks Publishing. By the Stars, a space opera themed novella, will be available through Amazon, Barnes and Nobles, and European Geeks Publishing websites in eBook format. The first in a trilogy, the following books will be releasing over the […]

He’s an artist and teacher like his famous Greek ancestors. St. Louis iconographer Rip Kastaris has a sought after talent few American artists have mastered.

By: Maggie Rotermund ST. LOUIS -The St. Louis MetroMarket and Saint Louis University are celebrating the delivery of a retired Metro transit bus which will soon be converted into St. Louis MetroMarket’s first mobile farmers market. The bus was delivered Tuesday, June 2, to its new home at Salus Center on the Saint Louis University […]

Gateway2change began following tragic events in Ferguson as a means to empower students to play a leadership role in improving the St. Louis community.

The Gateway2change movement aspires to help St. Louis serve as a beacon of hope for other communities in overcoming diversity issues through students.

Feyza Eren & her quartet perform many jazz forms, including The American Songbook, Bossa Nova, and Swing. Don Wolff’s Jazz Hero award is celebrated.

Go back in time through the power of primary sources and hear from individuals who lived, loved, laughed, worked, struggled, discovered, and persevered as America expanded westward between 1840 and 1880.  Interact with historians and first person re-enactors who bring this dynamic period of American history to life. To view video resources related to the content of the program, click on the Program Materials link on the right side of this page.
Grade Level:  7-12

Circus Flora comes alive with “One Summer on Second Street.”

A PLAYful Celebration: THE MONSTER RUMPUS was a night of unexpected encounters and activities at The Pageant.

This symposium explores the relevancy of HBCU’s in today’s educational landscape.

Brown vs. Board of Education and its Implications for St. Louis.

Fringe connects audiences and performing arts of all disciplines including theatre, singing, magic, dance, performance art, slam poetry, vaudeville, and more.

The I Love Jazz special archives edition features unreleased performances from Jeremy Davenport, the MazzJazz all-Stars, Miss Jubilee & the Humdingers & more!

Living Like Kings: The Expected Collision of Chess and Hip Hop Culture explores the fascinating connections of the two worlds.

Sed vitae orci tincidunt, feugiat libero sit amet, dignissim mi. Vivamus porta quam elementum hendrerit aliquet. Vestibulum sit amet egestas tellus.

Pellentesque ac blandit magna. Nam scelerisque est sit amet mollis semper. In suscipit, tellus at ultricies congue, mi nunc porta turpis, sit amet mattis.

Learn how to produce a play from the professionals at Metro Theater Company as they stage their production of Afflicted: Daughters of Salem.

Middle and high school students will explore themes of belonging, self-awareness, and group identity through the production of Afflicted: Daughters of Salem.

Team 2.0 turn emotion into motion with dance and hip-hop for local youth.

Jazz at the Bistro Grand Opening Intro

We joined the Challenger Learning Center St. Louis to be a part of history as Orion, NASA’s new spacecraft designed to take humans into deep space, was scheduled for its first test flight.

What are the impacts and implications of social media? What can we do to be informed consumers of what we see posted? Join us October 22 and give your students the unique opportunity to be part of the conversation on this important and timely topic.

Keona Ervin, University of Missouri-Columbia, details her current research on the struggle for racial and economic equality in the urban Midwest during the early 20th century.

Clarence Lang, an Associate Professor of African and African-American Studies at The University of Kansas, details the birth and growth of the civil rights and black political movements in St. Louis during a key 40-year period, from 1936-75. That period in the city, he says, coincides with the national rise in clout of working-class African-Americans, who the professor argues were the real muscle in expanding minority rights.

How St. Louis played a critical role in different eras, and in recent research, has reshaped our understanding of the city’s significance today.

White flight, high unemployment and a high crime rate, along with political corruption, have left East St. Louis, Illinois struggling to overcome enormous obstacles. But a spirit of hope pervades this community along with a determination to make their community a decent place to live and work.

Reviews of Suessical, Little Women, Sweeney Todd, La Traviata, The Addams Family, Hamlet, LaBute Festival I, Over the River etc., and Scutter Murphy’s Wake.

Reviews of “The Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess” and “Tarzan” at the Muny, and an inteview with Zulimar Lopez Hernandez, soprano, and Tim Ocel, director, of Union Avenue Opera’s “La Traviata.”

Known as St. Louis’ fastest growing tech startup, college students across the country are downloading the RoverTown app for student discounts.

Hear MAXJAZZ Record All-stars – Carla Cook, Terell Stafford, Tim Warfield ,Bruce Barth – as they perform in a tribute for the label’s founder, Rich McDonnell.

When it comes to finding mushrooms, the hunt is almost as important as the capture…almost.

Reviews of Henry IV, The Homecoming, Henry V, Prayer for the Gun Bug, The Magic Flute, and The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee.

It’s all about names and faces, faces and names.

Reviews of The Wizard of Oz; Old Jews Telling Jokes; Bachelorette; One-Hour Twilight Zone: Live!; The Nerd; 9 to 5; and The House of Blue Leaves.

…more than just old Route 66.

Reviews of Joseph & the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Make Hamlet, Windmill Baby, Medea, The Unexpected Guest, Leading Ladies, Into the Woods, & Twelfth Night.

The Trials of Brother Jero; Rx; Cabaret; Laughter on the 23rd Floor; Once; Victor/Victoria; Falling; You Can’t Take It with You; A Path Far from Here; Unsorted.

What? You’ve NEVER had a peppermint pickle???? Peach pickle? Here’s pickles aplenty….

Celebrate the Earth and learn what you can do to live green. Explore easy projects you can do at home, school or work to increase recycling, reduce your energy use, and do a better job of living green.

Reviews of Noises Off, Romeo and Juliet, The Price, Ghost The Musical, Betrayal, Briefs (Short LBGT Plays), Reckless, and Five Women Wearing the Same Dress.

The American shrine to America’s biggest back yard game is right in our back yard.

Canadian born Blues artist Anthony Gomes shares his love for Blues with HEC TV. The Blues originated in African-American communities of the “Deep South” at the end of 19th century, but Gomes talks about the evolutionary process of the Blues, it’s newfound musicians and audience.

A very special local documentary of the history and pioneering moments of the Catholic education system in St. Louis.

Journey back, with this exclusive HEC-TV documentary, to the middle of the 19th Century when St. Louis became “The Gateway to the West.” Learn why St. Louis was and continues to be a popular immigration destination.

KSHE, Head East, Mama’s Pride, Ozark Mountain Daredevils, REO Speedwagon, Pavlov’s Dog and Mississippi River Festival are in this classic rock documentary.

Full Circle, St. Louis Recycles introduces viewers to the basics of recycling, and takes a look at some of the most innovative and resourceful recycling that is taking place in St Louis.

The Pacific Ring Initiative is ground zero for an important study that may change the way regions approach, learn, plan and prepare for their future.

These documentaries, from filmmakers around the world, demonstrate the broad range of political and cultural interests of African peoples around the world.

Take your study of the Civil Rights Movement to people who participated in the struggle. Hear from individuals who experienced segregation first hand while living under Jim Crow Laws.

Learn how the Civil Rights Movement made a difference in their life and your life.

They can’t put their fingers on what it is, but they know it when they hear it.  It’s “Missouri fiddlin'” and it’s not like any other.  Take THAT, Tennessee!

Of all the hospitals in town, this one may be the sweetest…

They’ve been coming here for years…they’re impressive to watch.

Take your study of science, engineering and history to the pioneers of America’s space race. Interact with engineers who designed and built the Mercury capsule and the space systems that made it work.

Sixteenth century England has thrived in St. Louis for forty years….

Give us credit for charging into St. Louis. All you have to pay is attention.

In St. James, you should probably flag it twice.

The stands that “seem like they’ve been there forever” opened again…down the highway in wine country.

High Road to Linton, a reel performed by Peat, Fire, Flame.

An inter-generational conversation between African Americans from today’s generation and their elders who were forced to grew up during the Jim Crow era.

Benton, Illinois commemorates a visitor from 50 years ago–before George was fab.

‘Fort Smith,’ a reel performed in Missouri Ozark style by H.K. Silvey and Gordon McCann.

The official Missouri state animal does what can’t be done! They’re high on jumping mules in Altenburg…

White Cockade performed by Peat, Fire, Flame

This club lets you in–but just by the hair on your chinny-chin-chin….and lip.

Why explore? Students will get a chance to answer that question for themselves and listen to the answers of others as they meet a mountain climber and go back in time to the world of Daniel Boone.

This episode of I Love Jazz features the marvelous Marilyn Maye and the incomparable Billy Stritch. Taped live at the Sheldon Concert Hall this episode puts the spotlight on Cabaret Jazz and our Jazz Gem features Rebecca Kilgore. Edith Piaf, Eartha Kitt, John Pizzarelli and Ann Hampton Callaway are also discussed.

Brian McNeill performs Planxty Charles Coote, a slow strathspey. This set also includes Planxty Toby Peyton and Fanny Power.

The 2012 University City Jazz Festival brought together an eclectic variety of musicians for St. Louis jazz enthusiasts to hear in Heman Park at no cost, while enjoying a culturally diverse selection of foods.

Gypson Davy performed by Judy Stein in an Ozark style from the 1920’s.

“Little Boy Working on the Road,” a tune performed by William and Becky Ray in an old-time Kentucky style (standard tuning).

The cool kids are still cruisin’ in for Cruisin’ Night at Chuck-A-Burger…they’re just OLDER cool kids…

Reviews of South Pacific, LaBute New Theater Festival Part I, Soy Yo! An Afro-Latina Suite, Nunsense Muny Style!, Murphy’s Law, and 1776.

Once again, Paint Louis creates the biggest, longest public art anywhere…a flood (wall) of images and color.

Constitution Day 2013: The Ongoing Impact of Gideon v. Wainwright. was live from the Thomas F. Eagleton Federal Courthouse in St. Louis. Students interacted with our panel of judges, prosecutors, and public defenders for a vibrant and insightful discussion on the constitutional, legal, political and practical implications of the landmark 1963 U.S. Supreme Court decision in Gideon v. Wainwright.

The Admiral’s fleet sets sail across–and under–the water in North St. Louis County.

Liquid Roads features live swing, jazz and R&B music. Meet MADCO’s Stacy West, creator/choreographer Gina Patterson, music director Brian Casserly.

This installment of I Love Jazz from Shock City Studios in St. Louis, features Marlena Shaw, whose 50 plus career as a vocalist has included singing with The Count Basie’s Band, touring with Sammy Davis, Jr., and a long and successful solo career. On Building Blocks of Jazz, Phil Dunlap and his guest Peter Martin explore the art of piano jazz improvisation. Our “”Jazz Gem”” clip showcases the late & great pianist Ross Tompkins working in studio. And watch as some East St. Louis High School students get a lesson of a lifetime – playing along with Wynton Marsalis and his Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra..

Paul’s Bait and Tackle should be a fish out of water. But it gets along swimmingly just where it is.

Ladue View focuses on a student poll on school morality. You will meet Marshall, a dog who is changing lives and heading to Hollywood. The District will open a new 5th Grade Center next year. Alumni Spotlight features Kendall Davidson, with “The Freshmen Project.”

Though at MOYO yo-yo, strings aren’t always attached.  With our without, it’s pretty darn amazing.

In the late 60′s and early 70′s, in the midst of the hippie and youth subculture, a unique set of circumstances electrified progressive rock in St. Louis.

This month, we bring you four recently produced student documentary films, from two of our current student leaders, and one of an LHS-TV Hall of Fame member.

In which we grapple with the idea of grappling itself.

Host Phil Dunlap introduces viewers to various styles of jazz piano, and discusses how they developed over time. Phil demonstrates Ragtime, Stride, Boogie Woogie and modern day influences.

Reporter Aaron Mermelstein uses new media to tell the stories behind St. Louis’ recognizable places, things and people.

The Missouri Botanical Garden is advancing science worldwide by developing the first-ever online catalog of every known plant in the world, World Flora Online.

Twisters hit St. Louis! Cut massive swath of creativity though local hotel!!!

Ladue View looks into how the Sandy Hook tragedy might effect future leaders, the annual Filmfest, a contest, student achievement and alumni filmmakers.

Archives program with never seen performances by Bach to the Future, Jim Manley, Reggie and Mardra Thomas, Don and Alicia Cunningham, and Rick Haydon.

Host Tim Gore speaks with Sr. Antona Ebo about her experiences marching in Selma, searching for a nursing school that would accept her, and other aspects of her life.

Join Live! host Tim Gore and schools from across the nation, as he interviews local civil rights champions.

A very old movie tradition is still alive and well in St. Louis…and it’s all in Gerry Marian’s hands.

Reviews of new plays opening in the St. Louis area, including Sense and Sensibility, The Mountaintop, Speed-The-Plow, Psycho Beach Party and others.

Reviews of Mrs. Sorkin and The Duck Variations, Priscilla Queen of the Desert The Musical, Splendor In The Grass, Interview with author Nancy Bell, Calendar

Hear directly from Holocaust survivors. Learn how the lived before the war, what happened to them and their families, and what it was like to face the danger.

Interact with Holocaust survivors from WWII, learn what it as like to have friends turn on you, family die, live in concentration camps, and hide.

Dan Gutman’s novel Jackie and Me continues to be read and loved by thousands each year. In this program students had the opportunity to participate in a national videoconference book club discussion of issues and themes.

Gerry Kowarsky and guest host Mark Bretz review (1) 4000 MILES, by Amy Herzog, at the Repertory Theatre of St. Louis, (2) THE PIANO LESSON, by August Wilson, at the Black Rep, (3) CAFE CHANSON, created by Ken Page, at Upstream Theater, (4) THE GOAT, OR WHO IS SYLVIA?, by Edward Albee, at St. Louis Actors’ Studio, (5) JACKIE AND ME, by Steven Dietz, at Metro Theater Co., (6) THE LAST ROMANCE, by Joe DePietro, at the Kirkwood Theatre Guild, (7) CAPRICCIO, at Circus Harmony, (8) An Evening of PredicamentS, by Gerry Mandel & Patrick Conroy, at First Run Theatre, and (9) STAGE FRIGHT, by Charles Marowitz, at the Theatre Guild of Webster Groves.

EVERYBODY goes to St. Raymond’s … and they have for forty years.

A look at the velodrome in north St. Louis’ Penrose Park and the racing that has taken place there the past 50 years.
The track, situated in the middle-class African American Penrose neighborhood, has been the home of St. Louis track racers since 1962.

Gerry Kowarsky and guest host Dan Kelly interview Philip Boehm, artistic director of Upstream Theater, after reviewing (1) FLASHDANCE THE MUSICAL, by Robert Cary & Tom Hedley & Robbie Roth, at the Peabody Opera House, and (2) GOOD PEOPLE, by David Lindsay-Abaire, at the Repertory Theatre of St. Louis.

Be part of an interactive writer’s workshop with Ridley Pearson, award winning author of the Kingdom Keepers series, Peter and the Starcatchers, and many other books for young readers. 1pm This program was partially funded by the Missouri Arts Council.

2012 National Association of Telecommunications Officers and Advisors (NATOA) Honorable Mention. Gooey butter cakes, they’re not. But they’re OUR food. Especially at 3 a. m.

Join Brian McNeill as he celebrates the 40th year of a career that has established him as one of the most acclaimed forces in Scottish music.

Bob Wilcox and Gerry Kowarsky interview Dan Kelly of Lion’s Paw Theatre after reviewing (1) WICKED, by Stephen Schwartz & Winnie Holzman, at the Fox Theatre, (2) A GNOME FOR CHRISTMAS, by Sarah Brandt & Stephen James Neale, at the Imaginary Theatre Co., and (3) A CHILD’S CHRISTMAS IN WALES, conceived by Cecil MacKinnon, at Circus Flora and the St. Louis Symphony.

It was never one of the “great ships” of the U.S. Navy, but it served honorably.  And now it rusts here.

Be part of an interactive writer’s workshop with Ridley Pearson, award winning author of the Kingdom Keepers series, Peter and the Starcatchers, and many other books for young readers. 10 am This program was partially funded by the Missouri Arts Council.

Bob Wilcox and Gerry Kowarsky review (1) THE FOREIGNER, by Larry Shue, at the Repertory Theatre of St. Louis, (2) TALLEY’S FOLLY, by Lanford Wilson, at the New Jewish Theatre, (3) SEASON’S GREETINGS, by Alan Ayckbourn, at St. Louis Actors’ Studio, (4) THE DIVINE SISTER, by Charles Busch, at HotCity Theatre, (5) YOURS, ANNE, by Enid Futterman & Michael Cohen, at the Webster Univ. Conservatory, (6) FULLY COMMITTED, by Becky Mode, at Stray Dog Theatre, (7) THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER, by Barbara Robinson, at KTK Productions, and (8) THE ULTIMATE CHRISTMAS SHOW (ABRIDGED), by Reed Martin & Austin Tichenor, at Edison Theatre Ovations.

This I Love Jazz program features the saxophone. We travel to the Missouri Botanical Garden and the Whitaker Music Festival to share a performance with world renowned baritone saxophonist, Hamiet Bluiett. Building Blocks of Jazz visits Saxquest, a one-of-a-kind shop and museum in South St. Louis to learn about the history of the saxophone. On Jazz Gems, we feature DIVA, an all-women jazz group recorded back in 2002. And we tag along with Hamiet Bluiett as he shares his commitment to jazz education working with students from the Sunrise Conservatory.

BBOJ takes a field trip to Saxquest, where Phil Dunlap and owner Mark Overton discuss the history of the saxophone and take a look at some unique, vintage instruments.

This is NOT your regular bowling alley…this one goes way, way back…waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay back.

Thousands have taken the Pointersaurus Challenge…few have succeeded. Very, very, very, very few…

Before interviewing Mark Wilson of Saint Louis University’s theatre department, Bob Wilcox and Gerry Kowarsky review (1) BLUE MAN GROUP, at the Fox Theatre, (2) IMAGINARY JESUS, by Matt Mikalatos, adapted by Deanna Jent, at Mustard Seed Theatre, (3) LYSISTRATA, by Aristophanes, at Clayton Community Theatre, (4) A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM, by William Shakespeare, at Webster Univ. Conservatory, and (5) THE NIGHT SEASON, by Rebecca Lenkiewicz, at Washington Univ.

As we approach Veteran’s Day 2012, hear first hand from those who have served our country. Learn what it’s like to be in the military, fight in combat, return from war, and to have served your nation in its armed forces.

They do things you'd never want to experience on your next flight to Sheboygan, but they're amazing to watch at this airport in St. Charles County.

In this episode, Bob Wilcox and Gerry Kowarsky review (1) THIS WIDE NIGHT, by Chloe Moss, at West End Players Guild, (2) SUICIDE, INCORPORATED, by Andrew Hinderaker, at R-S Theatrics, (3) RADIUM GIRLS, by D.W. Gregory, at St. Louis Univ., (4) ELEEMOSYNARY, by Lee Blessing, at Slightly Askew Theatre Ensemble, (5) FACING THE SHADOW, by Sheila Payton, at The Black Rep, (6) THE MIKADO, by W.S. Gilbert & Arthur Sullivan, at Winter Opera St. Louis, (7) THE RED VELVET CAKE WAR, by Jessie Jones, Nicholas Hope, & Jamie Wooten, at the Kirkwood Theatre Guild, (8) FENCES, by August Wilson, at Hawthorne Players, and (9) CAT’S CRADLE, by Leslie Sands, at the Theatre Guild of Webster Groves.

Bob Wilcox and Gerry Kowarsky review (1) CLYBOURNE PARK, by Bruce Norris, at the Repertory Theatre of St. Louis Studio Theatre, (2) A RAISIN IN THE SUN, by Lorraine Hansberry, at Unity Theatre Ensemble, (3) MOONLIGHT AND MAGNOLIAS, by Ron Hutchinson, at Dramatic License Productions, (4) ANNE AND EMMETT, by Janet Langhart Cohen, at the Black Rep, (5) A CELTIC NIGHT CIRCUS: Tir na nOg, at Circus Flora, (6) ANNIE, by Charles Strouse, Martin Charnin, & Thomas Meehan, at Variety Children’s Theatre, (7) IN THE BLOOD, by Suzan-Lori Parks, at at Univ. of Missouri-St. Louis, and (8) CABARET, by John Kander & Fred Ebb and Joe Masteroff, at Washington Univ.

Learn more about the impact of the Cuban Missile crisis to ordinary citizens, such as yourself. How did that living change in October of that year when America discovered Soviet supported nuclear missile bases were being built in Cuba? Take a step back into history with those who lived and fought during these important moments in American life.

Learn more about the impact of the Cuban Missile crisis to ordinary citizens, such as yourself. Take a step back into history with those who lived and fought during these important moments in American life.

A little museum in the most haunted building in the most haunted city….

“Gravity” is the dramatic story of a robbery; the proprietor of a small grocery is held up at gunpoint….by an old classmate. And again, the ending is a shocking twist.

"My Dad Lives in a Trunk" tells of a young man who's girlfriend wants to meet his father, who, as the title suggests, lives in his car. A goofy little film, with a surprise ending.

One weekend a year, a convention that’s all about an instrument with “more voices than the Mormon Tabernacle Choir.”

Bob Wilcox and Gerry Kowarsky review (1) LES MISERABLES, by Claude-Michel Schonberg, Alain Boublil Jean-Marc Natel, et al., at the Fox Theatre, (2) DADDY LONG LEGS, by Paul Gordon & John Caird, at the Repertory Theatre of St. Louis, (3) SPRING AWAKENING, by Frank Wedekind, Duncan Sheik, & Steve Sater, at Stray Dog Theatre, (4) LOST IN YONKERS, by Neil Simon, at the New Jewish Theatre, (5) THE HAIRY APE, by Eugene O’Neill, at Upstream Theater, (6) GOOD, by C.P. Taylor, at St. Louis Actors’ Studio, (7) WONDER OF THE WORLD, by David Lindsay-Abaire, at St. Louis University, and (8) INVENTING VAN GOGH, by Steve Dietz, at West End Players Guild.

Chris Clark, of Cinema St. Louis, brings "Frames'" viewers a preview of the Festival, which features nearly 400 films of all kinds from filmmakers around the world. With previews, clips and short films uncut, viewers will get a sense of the breadth and scope of this important Festival.

Bob Wilcox and Gerry Kowarsky review (1) BLOODY ANDREW JACKSON, by Michael Friedman & Alex Timbers, at New Line Theatre, (2) THE DROWSY CHAPERONE, by Lisa Lambert & Greg Morrison,Bob Martin & Don McKeller, at The Alpha Players, (3) A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM, by William Shakespeare, at St. Louis Shakespeare, (4) TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD, adapted by Christopher Sergel, at Insight Theatre Co., (5) THE CHILDREN’S HOUR, by Lillian Hellman, at Webster Univ. Conservatory, and (6) TONY AND LIZ TIE THE KNOT, by Susan Berardi & Vanessa Roman, at Inspired Productions.

Phil Dunlap and his guest Kevin Gianino look at the technique and instrumentation of jazz drums. This upbeat lesson includes the basics of a drum set, as well as the rhythms of swing and bossa nova.

I Love Jazz travels to the Focal Point in Maplewood and captures a performance of "Bach to the Future" a group that takes Classical music and themes and gives it a jazz twist with a mixture of modern instruments and jazz time signatures. Correspondent Cordell Whitlock visits St. Louis Jam sessions and finds this tradition of experience shared, limits expanded, and new talent developed is right at home here in our town. Our "Jazz Gem" features Italian jazz pianist Rossano Sportiello, performing Chopin as you've never heard it before. And on "Building Blocks of jazz", Phil Dunlap and his guest look at jazz drumming and drummers.

Officials at Jefferson Barracks National operate under the notion that you can always learn something about a society by how they bury their dead. Civil War soldiers… both Union and Confederate… are buried at Jefferson Barracks. On a cemetery tour we visit monuments for each, including a mass grave where 175 men are buried.

The event was presented by Arts and Faith St. Louis on September 9th, 2012 at the Sheldon Concert Hall. The concert brought together performers from Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Hindu and Sikh traditions. The evening was "offered to allow reflection, express sorrow and unify the community in hope for peace."

Jefferson Barracks played a role in the Civil War long before the Civil War began. That’s because so many Civil War generals… Union and Confederate… passed through there before they made the very important decision regarding which side they were going to fight for. For nearly ten years now, a small group of very dedicated people has been working to establish the Missouri Civil War Museum at Jefferson Barracks. They hope to open to the public this year.

Bob Wilcox and Gerry Kowarsky review (1) BRIGHTON BEACH MEMOIRS, by
Neil Simon, at the Repertory Theatre of St. Louis, (2) MY ONE AND
ONLY, by George & Ira Gershwin and Peter Stone & Timothy S. Mayer, at
Stages St. Louis, (3) DINNER WITH FRIENDS, by Donald Margulies, at
Dramatic License Productions, (4) GOODBYE, RUBY TUESDAY, by EM Lewis,
at HotCity Theatre, (5) MOONLIGHT AND MAGNOLIAS, by Ron Hutchinson, at
KTK Productions, (6) ADDING MACHINE: A MUSICAL, by Elmer Rice, Joshua
Schmidt & Jason Loewith, at R-S Theatrics, (7) REMEMBER ME?, by Samuel
Bobrick, at the Theatre Guild of Webster Groves, and (8) KEN HALLER:
THE TV SHOW!, at The Presenters Dolan.

"Dignity Harbor" is an honest and moving documentary about homelessness in St. Louis, directed by Michael Gualdoni. Shot at a homeless camp on the banks of the Mississippi, "Dignity Harbor" shows the down-and-out residents' efforts to create a safe environment under very difficult circumstances. Warning: There is raw language in this film.

Today many people may react with disgust, horror… even humor… at some of the commonly held beliefs in the medical community at the time of the Civil War. Dr. David Meyers, a re-enactor with the Society of Civil War Surgeons, sheds some light on some of the tenants members of the medical community were operating under when Union and Confederate forces were mortally wounding each other across the eastern half of America. Even citizens back then had a problem with the sanitary conditions soldiers were forced to fight in. So what did they do? They held a fair. A Sanitary Fair.

This old country store has been here ever since the big new highway went in–the two-lane–in 1920. We’re there on “Liars Club” day…and that’s the truth. Maybe.

The event was presented by Arts and Faith St. Louis on September 9th, 2012 at the Sheldon Concert Hall. The concert brought together performers from Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Hindu and Sikh traditions. The evening was "offered to allow reflection, express sorrow and unify the community in hope for peace."

In St. Louis County, the Museum of Transportation is featuring a Civil War sesquicentennial exhibit titled “Roads, Rivers, & Rails: Transportation of the Civil War.” This episode takes a look at that exhibit, but more importantly, at a strategic tunnel on Museum of Transportation property. It was virtually the only way to get into the city of St. Louis 150 years ago if you were traveling by rail. Also in this piece, we meet a man who is trying to construct, and build support for, a Civil War tourism travel map in the state of Missouri similar to those in Virginia and Tennessee, two states which have had success with drawing attention to their Civil War heritage.

Bob Wilcox and Gerry Kowarsky interview actor Joneal Joplin after reviewing (1) GOING TO SEE THE ELEPHANT, by Karen Hensel, Elana Kent, et al. at Mustard Seed Theatre and (2) THE VIOLET HOUR, by Richard Greenberg, at Max & Louie Productions.

In the winter of 1862, a serious epidemic of smallpox broke-out among Confederate prisoners in a Union prisoner-of-war camp in Alton, IL. Rather than run the risk of infecting residents of Alton, prison officials moved the sick prisoners to Sunflower Island, out in the middle of the Mississippi River. Not surprisingly, it became a place where men went to die. Smallpox Island is a good indicator of the understanding Civil War-era medical personnel had regarding sanitation, infection, and contamination.

If you’ve heard of James Eads, it’s likely because you’re familiar with the bridge he designed, which spans the Mississippi River at St. Louis. But before Eads built a bridge over the Mississippi, he built ironclad gunboats that patrolled it for Union forces during the Civil War.

A genuine St. Louis hero.

Gerry Kowarsky and guest host Mark Bretz discuss the Louies after Gerry and Mark review (1) THE LION KING, by Elton John, Tim Rice, et al., at the Fox Theatre, (2) DAS RHEINGOLD, by Richard Wagner, at Union Avenue Opera, (3) THE COMPLEAT WKS OF WILLM SHKSPER (ABRIDGED), by the Reduced Shakespeare Co., at St. Louis Shakespeare, (4) BARBARA FASANO & ERIC COMSTOCK, at the St. Louis Cabaret Festival, (5) RICK JENSEN, at the St. Louis Cabaret Festival, and (6) JASON GRAAE, at the St. Louis Cabaret Festival.

Make no mistake, the Civil War was an uncertain time in the state of Missouri. If somebody asked you about your politics, you better be careful, because it may be a trick question. That became apparent in this piece about the closest point Confederate troops likely ever got to the city of St. Louis. Back then it was called Old Cheltenham, and it was out in the country. These days it goes by a much more familiar name, and it’s in a friendly St. Louis neighborhood.

The intrepid IASLT I-Team (can one person be a “team?”), investigates one of St. Louis’ most pressing peeves.

During the Civil War, the federal government went to great lengths to make sure St. Louis, and the Union Arsenal, remained in Union control. Union forces built forts known as earthen redoubts. While there is no sign of the forts now, archeological maps detail where they were located. The forts were located on high, common ground familiar to residents… then & now.

The velocipedes circle the velodrome in north St. Louis…

Bob Wilcox and Gerry Kowarsky review (1) THE SOUND OF MUSIC, by Rodgers & Hammerstein and Lindsay & Crouse, at Stages St. Louis, (2) THE KING AND I, by Richard Rodgers & Oscar Hammerstein II, at The Muny, (3) THE GREAT AMERICAN TRAILER PARK MUSICAL, by David Nehls & Betsy Kelso, at Stray Dog Theatre, (4) AIDA, by Elton John & Tim Rice, Linda Woolverton & Robert Falls & David Henry Hwang, at Take Two Productions, (5) PIRATES! (OR, GILBERT & SULLIVAN PLUNDER’D), by W.S. Gilbert, Arthur Sullivan, & Nell Benjamin, at The Muny, (6) THE SOUND OF MUSIC, by Rodgers & Hammerstein and Lindsay & Crouse, at The Over Due Theatre Co., and (7) COMPANY, by Stephen Sondheim & George Furth, at Hawthorne Players.

For Olympians, it takes a village.

The National Geospatial Intelligence Agency, or NGA, is on ground that has been federal government property for more than 150 years. It is located in south St. Louis, right across the street from Anheuser-Busch. Today personnel there construct maps & charts in support of military operations. In the 1960’s they helped map the moon for some of the Apollo missions. During the Civil War, NGA was the site of the St. Louis Union Arsenal. And for thousands of years prior to that, archeological evidence shows this spot was a strategic location in the middle of the continent for launching missions to the great unknown west of the Mississippi River.

Host Don Wolff from Bar 360 in the Ballpark Hilton brings us the husband and wife duo of pianist Reggie and vocalist Mardra Thomas, the trombone is described and the U City Jazz Festival.

Phil Dunlap and his guest Dave Dickey examine the evolution of the trombone style, from New Orleans to BeBop.