Polish Fest, Les Paul's Lasting Impact, & George & Gracie's Love Story

Polish Fest, Les Paul's Lasting Impact, & George & Gracie's Love Story

On this episode of What's on Tap with Sandy Maxx, we celebrate Wisconsin's rich culture, music, theater, and tourism. Polish Center of Wisconsin Executive Director Jeff Kuderski previews Polish Fest 2025, highlighting authentic Polish food, live music, folk dancing, cultural traditions, family activities, and the volunteers who help make one of Milwaukee's most beloved festivals possible. Then, Sandy explores the legacy of Les Paul, the Wisconsin-born guitar pioneer and recording innovator, with a look at Waukesha's new Guitar Town Music Festival. Learn about the free event, live Wisconsin bands, instrument experiences for kids, a Gibson Les Paul guitar giveaway, and the mission of the Chad Smith Foundation to expand access to music education. In Hour 2, acclaimed Milwaukee performers Tami Workentin and James Pickering discuss George & Gracie: A Love Story, the Milwaukee Rep world-premiere play that brings the romance, comedy, and entertainment legacy of George Burns and Gracie Allen to the stage. Hear the real-life inspiration behind the production, the extensive research that shaped the script, and the remarkable story of one of entertainment's most enduring partnerships. Plus, Sandy breaks down Wisconsin's record-setting tourism numbers, the impact of the 2025 NFL Draft in Green Bay, EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, and how the Door County holiday film A Cherry Pie Christmas helped drive visitors to one of Wisconsin's most popular destinations.

Gary Sinise, Buddy Guy & Brewed Awakening Begins Filming

Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Buddy Guy joins Sandy Maxx to share stories from his legendary career, his role in Sinners, and his upcoming concert July 26 at Milwaukee's Riverside Theater. Plus, Skylight Music Theatre Artistic Director Michael Unger announces a special world-premiere event featuring Gary Sinise and the music of his late son, Mac Sinise. Sandy also catches up with the creator and cast members of Brewed Awakening, a new Wisconsin-made TV pilot beginning production this month, and shares local arts, music, and cultural highlights from around Milwaukee.

Buddy Guy at 90: Keeping the Blues Alive, One Smile at a Time

Blues icon Buddy Guy joins Sandy Maxx ahead of his Riverside Theatre performance for a conversation filled with humor, heart, and hard-earned wisdom. Buddy reflects on his journey from a two-string guitar in rural Louisiana to becoming one of the most influential musicians of all time, shares stories from decades on the road, and explains why connecting with audiences still drives him at nearly 90 years old. Plus, thoughts on keeping the blues alive, his recent Grammy-winning success, his role in Sinners, and the simple power of music to bring people together.

Sunday What's on Tap: Talkin' Tony Awards and Wisconsin Connections with Sandy Maxx

What to expect and who to root for with Wisconsin connections at the Tony Awards. Plus your invitation to join Sandy Maxx at the Tony Awards Watch Party at Skylight Music Theatre!

Wisconsin’s Broadway Stars, Tony Picks & a Skylight Celebration

On this special Tony Awards preview edition of What's On Tap with Sandy Maxx, Sandy explores Wisconsin's remarkable connections to Broadway's biggest night. Milwaukee native and Tony Award nominee for Best Sound Design for a Play, Josh Schmidt, talks about the journey and dynamics of the play, BUG. Tony Award winner Anthony Crivello and Skylight Music Theatre Executive Director and Broadway veteran Susan Varela share their insights, predictions, and favorite nominees ahead of the 2026 Tony Awards. Hear why The Lost Boys, Cats: The Jellicle Ball, Death of a Salesman, and Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York) are generating buzz, learn about Wisconsin artists making an impact on Broadway. Plus, your invitation to join Susan and Sandy at Milwaukee's biggest Tony Awards Watch Party at Skylight Music Theatre.