Shakespeare Under the Stars: The Stories, Chaos & Magic Behind Palm Beach Shakespeare Festival

Shakespeare Under the Stars: The Stories, Chaos & Magic Behind Palm Beach Shakespeare Festival

On the latest episode of the ArtiGras Podcast, we sit down with Elizabeth Desile, Managing Producer, and Trent Stephens, Artistic Director of the Palm Beach Shakespeare Festival. From unforgettable live theater moments and behind-the-scenes stories to the importance of accessibility in the arts, this conversation explores how the festival has become a beloved cultural tradition in Palm Beach County for more than three decades. Elizabeth and Trent share their personal journeys into theater, the evolution of the Palm Beach Shakespeare Festival, and the magic that comes with performing Shakespeare outdoors under the stars. They also discuss the festival’s commitment to keeping performances free and accessible for all audiences, the impact of arts education through their Sharing Shakespeare program, and why live performance still matters in an increasingly digital world. Topics Covered: • 2:03 – The history and growth of the Palm Beach Shakespeare Festival • 3:43 – Trent Stephens’ journey into theater and the impact of mentors • 4:47 – Elizabeth Desile’s creative beginnings and early love of Shakespeare • 14:20 – Unexpected moments during live outdoor performances • 16:53 – A memorable on-stage wardrobe malfunction story • 23:21 – What it takes to sustain a free Shakespeare festival for over 30 years • 28:16 – Why the festival remains free and accessible to the public • 33:02 – The importance of live theater in a digital and AI-driven world • 39:17 – The unique community culture surrounding Shakespeare by the Sea • 42:16 – This summer’s world premiere production of Falstaff • 55:28 – Bringing Shakespeare into schools through the Sharing Shakespeare program The ArtiGras Podcast celebrates the artists and stories that bring Palm Beach North to life, revealing the creativity and heart behind our art community. Artists and Creative Professionals! 📣 For free resources and more insight into Palm Beach County’s arts scene, visit our sponsor’s site: https://www.palmbeachculture.com [https://www.palmbeachculture.com] Love local stories and community leadership? Check out our sister series, the Palm Beach North Podcast, to stay updated with the future of Palm Beach County’s business community. Listen anywhere podcasts are found or visit palmbeachnorthpodcast.com [http://palmbeachnorthpodcast.com]! Check us out on social media! Instagram: ArtiGras: @artigras Palm Beach North: @palmbeachnorth Facebook: ArtiGras: /artigrasfineartsfestival Palm Beach North: /palmbeachnorth Website: To learn more about ArtiGras Podcast, visit: https://www.artigraspodcast.com [https://www.artigraspodcast.com] To learn more about Palm Beach North Podcast, visit: https://www.palmbeachnorthpodcast.com [https://www.palmbeachnorthpodcast.com] To learn more about the Palm Beach North Chamber of Commerce, visit: https://www.pbnchamber.com [https://www.pbnchamber.com] Follow our guests: Website: pbshakespeare.org [http://pbshakespeare.org] Instagram: @pbshakespeare Facebook: Palm Beach Shakespeare Festival LinkedIn: Palm Beach Shakespeare Festival #ArtiGrasPodcast #PalmBeachShakespeare #ShakespeareByTheSea #PalmBeachArts #ArtsInPalmBeachCounty

A Creative Life Without Limits: George Bayer’s Global Journey

On the latest episode of the ArtiGras Podcast, we sit down with George Bayer, a multidisciplinary artist whose career has taken him across the globe and across mediums. From an unconventional start shaped by early challenges with communication to becoming an internationally exhibited artist, George shares how creativity became both his voice and his path forward. We explore the defining moments that shaped his journey, including his introduction to the art world through a supportive teacher, his evolution into a video artist during the early days of MTV, and the unexpected story that led him to live and work in Japan for six years. George reflects on a career built on curiosity, experimentation, and a willingness to say yes before knowing how. Throughout the conversation, George dives into his current body of work, including his signature “Lhat” character, a globally inspired figure layered with symbolism, humor, and cultural references. He shares insight into his detailed, multi-layered artistic process, the importance of engaging directly with audiences, and how storytelling, perception, and interaction all play a role in his work. We also discuss his involvement in Palm Beach County’s cultural scene, including being named a MOSAIC Artist and receiving the Artist Innovation Fellowship, as well as what it means to create, connect, and continue evolving as an artist. Topics Covered: • 1:29 – George’s origin story and early introduction to art • 4:08 – Entering the art world and transition into video art • 6:20 – Breaking the rules of video and early success • 8:23 – The unexpected journey to Japan and global influence • 11:07 – Living and creating internationally • 20:06 – The evolution of the “Lhat” character • 23:38 – Building a layered artistic process • 27:17 – How artists can better present and market their work • 31:33 – What MOSAIC means for artists and the community • 38:15 – Artist Innovation Fellowship and creative freedom • 42:16 – Inside the studio process and working in layers • 48:28 – Interactive art and engaging with audiences Love local stories and community leadership? Check out our sister series, the Palm Beach North Podcast, to stay updated with the future of Palm Beach County’s business community. Listen anywhere podcasts are found or visit palmbeachnorthpodcast.com [http://palmbeachnorthpodcast.com]. Thank you to our presenting sponsor, Cultural Council for Palm Beach County #ArtiGrasPodcast #PalmBeachArts #CreativeCommunity #VisualArtist #ArtInPalmBeach

Building Real Connection in Palm Beach County with Tiffany Lanier

On the latest episode of the ArtiGras Podcast, we sit down with Tiffany Lanier, keynote speaker, author, show host, and community builder. From discovering the power of her voice at a young age to building a career rooted in connection, Tiffany shares how her work has evolved across speaking, storytelling, and creating spaces that bring people together. We explore the defining moments that shaped her journey, including founding a college organization centered on unity, becoming a children’s book author, and launching a TV show focused on accessibility in the Palm Beaches. Tiffany also shares the inspiration behind her newest venture, 639, a guided gathering space designed to foster deeper, more meaningful connections in a world that often feels surface-level. Throughout the conversation, Tiffany reflects on the importance of trusting your intuition, embracing stillness, and creating intentional space for both personal growth and collective well-being. Topics Covered: • 1:56 – “What don’t you do?” redefining identity and purpose • 4:23 – Discovering the power of her voice in college • 5:29 – Using your voice for good and creating connection • 10:40 – Writing I Can’t Wait to Vote and impact on young readers • 16:05 – How one conversation led to a TV show • 27:24 – Moving beyond surface-level networking • 32:37 – The meaning behind “639” and intentional connection • 40:17 – Challenging hustle culture and prioritizing rest • 41:55 – Trusting your intuition and finding alignment Artists and Creative Professionals! For free resources and more insight into Palm Beach County’s arts scene, visit our sponsor’s site: https://www.palmbeachculture.com [https://www.palmbeachculture.com] Love local stories and community leadership? Check out our sister series, the Palm Beach North Podcast, to stay updated with the future of Palm Beach County’s business community. Listen anywhere podcasts are found or visit palmbeachnorthpodcast.com [http://palmbeachnorthpodcast.com]. Check us out on social media! Instagram: ArtiGras: @artigras Palm Beach North: @palmbeachnorth Palm Beach North Chamber of Commerce: @pbnchamber Facebook: ArtiGras: /artigrasfineartsfestival Palm Beach North: /palmbeachnorth Palm Beach North Chamber of Commerce: /pbnchamber LinkedIn: Palm Beach North: /palmbeachnorth Palm Beach North Chamber of Commerce: /pbnchamber Website: To learn more about ArtiGras Podcast, visit: https://www.artigraspodcast.com [https://www.artigraspodcast.com] To learn more about Palm Beach North Podcast, visit: https://www.palmbeachnorthpodcast.com [https://www.palmbeachnorthpodcast.com] To learn more about the Palm Beach North Chamber of Commerce, visit: https://www.pbnchamber.com [https://www.pbnchamber.com] Follow the Cultural Council for Palm Beach County: Instagram: @palmbeachculture Facebook: Cultural Council for Palm Beach County Cultural Council for Palm Beach County Website: https://www.palmbeachculture.com [https://www.palmbeachculture.com] Follow our guest! Instagram: Tiffany Lanier: @livewithtiffany 639: @gatherwith639 #ArtiGrasPodcast#PalmBeachArts#CreativeCommunity#WomenInLeadership#CommunityConnection

Breaking Into the Art World: Jessica Ransom of the Cultural Council for Palm Beach County

On the latest episode of the ArtiGras Podcast, we sit down with Jessica Ransom, Director of Artist Services at the Cultural Council for Palm Beach County. From an unexpected career pivot into the arts to shaping opportunities for hundreds of local creatives, Jessica shares a behind-the-scenes look at what it really takes to support and grow a thriving arts community in Palm Beach County. This conversation explores the realities of the art market, the role of curators in shaping meaningful exhibitions, and how the Cultural Council is creating pathways for artists at every stage of their careers. From major exhibitions to grant programs and artist resources, Jessica offers insight into how collaboration, accessibility, and community continue to drive the region’s creative momentum. Topics Covered: • (2:15) Jessica’s journey from education and government into the arts • (6:26) What it means to be Director of Artist Services and the many roles involved • (7:36) Breaking into the art market and challenges for artists in smaller regions • (11:34) The connection between art, wellness, and community impact • (15:31) How exhibitions are conceptualized, curated, and brought to life • (37:42) Resources, grants, and opportunities available for artists in Palm Beach County Artists and Creative Professionals! For free resources and more insight into Palm Beach County’s arts scene, visit our sponsor’s site: https://www.palmbeachculture.com [https://www.palmbeachculture.com] Do not forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring stories from the art world! Follow us on social media: Instagram: @artigras Facebook: @artigras ArtiGras Fine Arts Festival Website: www.artigras.org [http://www.artigras.org] ArtiGras Podcast Website: www.artigraspodcast.com [http://www.artigraspodcast.com] Follow the Cultural Council for Palm Beach County: Instagram: @palmbeachculture Facebook: Cultural Council for Palm Beach County Cultural Council for Palm Beach County Website: https://www.palmbeachculture.com [https://www.palmbeachculture.com] #ArtiGrasPodcast#PalmBeachArts#CulturalCouncil#ArtCommunity#SouthFloridaArts

Art, History, and Community at the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse with Peter DeWitt & Katrina Heller

Peter DeWitt is the Program Manager for the Bureau of Land Management at the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse Outstanding Natural Area, and Katrina Heller is the Executive Director of the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse & Museum. Together, they help steward one of Palm Beach County’s most iconic and meaningful places, where history, nature, preservation, and community all meet. In this episode, Peter and Katrina share how they each found their way to the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse, what makes the site so nationally unique, and why it continues to leave such a lasting impact on visitors and locals alike. From over 8,000 years of history to tours, wellness programs, conservation work, and the new River to Reef Arts Festival, this conversation highlights just how much the lighthouse has to offer. Topics Covered: 02:22 How Peter and Katrina each found their way to the Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse 05:43 Why the site is nationally unique and deeply rooted in community stewardship 11:11 The 8,000+ years of history beneath the site 12:03 Tours, programs, and experiences happening at the lighthouse year-round 15:50 What Peter’s role as Program Manager with the Bureau of Land Management looks like 24:00 The vision behind the new River to Reef Arts Festival 30:18 What makes River to Reef a different kind of art festival 35:02 How the Bureau of Land Management and Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse & Museum work together 36:42 Key events that support the lighthouse throughout the year 43:42 Conservation, restoration, and the future of the site 53:15 How to get involved with the lighthouse through volunteering, events, and partnerships The ArtiGras Podcast celebrates the artists and stories that bring Palm Beach North to life, revealing the creativity and heart behind our art community. Love local stories and community leadership? Check out our sister series, the Palm Beach North Podcast, to stay updated with the future of Palm Beach County’s business community. Listen anywhere podcasts are found or visit palmbeachnorthpodcast.com [http://palmbeachnorthpodcast.com]! Check us out on social media! Instagram: ArtiGras: @artigras Palm Beach North: @palmbeachnorth Palm Beach North Chamber of Commerce: @pbnchamber Facebook: ArtiGras: /artigrasfineartsfestival Palm Beach North: /palmbeachnorth Palm Beach North Chamber of Commerce: /pbnchamber LinkedIn: Palm Beach North: /palmbeachnorth Palm Beach North Chamber of Commerce: /pbnchamber Website: To learn more about ArtiGras Podcast, visit: https://www.artigraspodcast.com [https://www.artigraspodcast.com] To learn more about Palm Beach North Podcast, visit: https://www.palmbeachnorthpodcast.com [https://www.palmbeachnorthpodcast.com] To learn more about the Palm Beach North Chamber of Commerce, visit: https://www.pbnchamber.com [https://www.pbnchamber.com] Follow our guests! Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse & Museum Website: jupiterlighthouse.org [http://jupiterlighthouse.org] Instagram: @jupiter_lighthouse Facebook: /jupiterinletlighthousemuseum LinkedIn: /company/jupiter-inlet-lighthouse-and-museum #ArtiGrasPodcast #JupiterLighthouse #PalmBeachCulture #RiverToReef #SupportLocalArts