Beyond the Stage with Pablo Center

Step Out and Into Eau Claire’s Live Scene

Live music doesn’t really exist without the people in the room. In this episode, Kathy Wright sits down with two passionate fans of the live experience, Michael Strubel and Nick White, to talk about what keeps them coming back show after show. Michael shares the story behind his “Year 50” challenge, attending fifty live performances across the region to mark his 50th birthday, and the moments and artists that made it unforgettable. Nick dives into the energy of local house shows and the unique spaces where live music thrives, including experiences like the 715 Series. Together, they reflect on what makes live music feel so personal, so powerful, and why the audience is just as essential as the artists on stage.

Eau Claire Jazz Festival 2026

Get ready to feel the rhythm return to downtown Eau Claire. In this episode, Quentin Volk joins us to preview the 2026 Eau Claire Jazz Festival, happening April 17–18. From intimate sets to high-energy performances, Jazz Fest fills the city with sound in all the right ways. Quentin shares a behind-the-scenes look at what’s in store this year, reflects on favorite moments from festivals past, and talks about what makes this event such a standout on the spring calendar. It’s a celebration of music, community, and a festival that continues to grow year after year.

Fabulous Florals & Fine Art 2026

Spring arrives a little early at the Pablo Center. Before gardens begin to bloom across the Chippewa Valley, the galleries come to life with color, texture, and fresh inspiration during Fabulous Florals. In this episode, Erika Crotty joins us to share a behind-the-scenes look at this beloved annual exhibit, on view March 26–29. Blending live floral design with works of fine art, Fabulous Florals transforms the gallery into a living, breathing experience. Erika talks about what goes into creating the exhibit, the collaboration between artists and florists, and why it continues to be a favorite for both staff and visitors year after year.

Eau Claire Children's Theatre

In this episode, Kathy Wright sits down with Andrew Salvaterra, Board President of the Eau Claire Children’s Theatre, for a conversation about the power of youth arts in our community. Now in its 37th season, ECCT has grown into a vibrant organization producing nearly 20 shows each year, creating space for young performers to build confidence, creativity, and connection. Andrew shares the story behind ECCT’s growth, the impact of arts education on young people, and the many ways kids—and adults—can get involved, both on stage and behind the scenes. He also highlights how families and community members can play a role in supporting the next generation of artists right here in the Chippewa Valley.

New Music, New Chapter: Chris Kroeze Live

He may be known nationwide, but he’ll always belong to Western Wisconsin. This February, Chris Kroeze returns to The Pablo to debut brand-new music and an all-new live show. Chris joins Kathy Wright to talk about the February 21 premiere, what longtime fans will notice right away, and which new song is his personal favorite. He shares insight into his songwriting process, reveals a surprising admission about his time on The Voice, and gives us a behind-the-scenes look at the unique space where he recorded his latest project. Plus, we discuss his continued dedication to veterans and first responders—and why that mission remains at the heart of everything he does.