Indianapolis Ballet Principal Dancer Yoshiko Kamikusa moonlights as a successful restaurateur.

Actor and former Miss Indiana Is Indianapolis Theatre veteran.

In this episode of On the Aisle, host Tom Alvarez sits down with Indianapolis theater veteran Jill O’Malia for a warm, reflective conversation about her life on stage, her deep ties to the Indiana Repertory Theatre, and her journey through roles like Velma in Hairspray at the Tarkington. They talk about how Indy’s theater scene has evolved, the impact of venues like the Palladium and Center for the Performing Arts, and how strong arts journalism and advocacy helped shape both Jill’s career and Tom’s work as a reviewer. Jill shares candid memories of auditions, sold‑out productions, and the friendships and networks that sustain working actors, while Tom connects those stories to the broader growth of central Indiana’s arts community. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy [https://art19.com/privacy] and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info [https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info].

Dancers-Choreographers Carol Worcel and Kenny Shepard Maintain Prominence On Central Indiana's Musical Theatre scene.

In this episode of On The Aisle, Tom Alvarez talks with Kenny Shepard and Carol Worcel about their hit “ESC Burlesque” show in Carmel—a modern, Vegas-style take on burlesque featuring trained musical theater performers. The show blends comedy, music, and dance while celebrating confidence and artistry across all ages. They also share stories from their careers in theater, choreography, and directing, and reflect on their strong creative partnership built on trust and collaboration. The conversation highlights the growth of Indiana’s arts scene and encourages aspiring performers to build sustainable careers doing what they love—wherever they are. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy [https://art19.com/privacy] and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info [https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info].

Leticia Maki Teramoto Sakamoto, Mexican Counsel of Indiana, Kentucky & Ohio, combines diplomatic duties with cultural engagement.

In this episode of On the Aisle, host Tom Alvarez speaks with Mexican Consul, Leticia Maki Teramoto Sakamoto about immigration, identity, and community. Sakamoto discusses the Mexican Consulate’s work supporting immigrants through legal, protection, and documentation services, while also addressing the fear many undocumented families currently face. Alvarez reflects on reconnecting with his Mexican heritage and highlights how Latino culture enriches Indianapolis through the arts, traditions, and community events. Together, they emphasize compassion, cultural understanding, and the importance of supporting immigrant communities. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy [https://art19.com/privacy] and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info [https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info].

Acclaimed composer and lyricist Adam Gwon is celebrated for his contributions to musical theater.

On this episode of On the Aisle, host Tom Alvarez sits down with acclaimed composer, lyricist, and playwright Adam Gwon for an in-depth conversation about his Off-Broadway musical All the World’s a Stage and its upcoming cast album. Gwon shares how the show grew out of his reflections during the pandemic and explores themes of identity, mentorship, and the power of art to represent marginalized voices. The two discuss Gwon’s creative journey from Baltimore to NYU and beyond, his early love of piano and theater, his experiences working with Roundabout Theatre Company, and the influence of artists like Audra McDonald. Blending personal stories, humor, and thoughtful commentary on the state of musical theater today, the interview offers an intimate look at one of contemporary theater’s most heartfelt voices. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy [https://art19.com/privacy] and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info [https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info].

Indianapolis Ballet Principal Dancer Yoshiko Kamikusa moonlights as a successful restaurateur.

In this episode of On the Aisle, host Tom Alvarez sits down with Yoshiko Kamikusa for an intimate conversation about the global journey that led her to the Indianapolis Ballet. Born in Tokyo and raised in Hawaii, Yoshiko traces her path through elite training in Vancouver, competing in international ballet competitions, and launching her professional career with the Royal Winnipeg Ballet before arriving in Indianapolis. Along the way, she opens up about the discipline and sacrifices behind a ballet career, the realities of company life and competition, dancing through the challenges of COVID, and the artistry required to make the impossible look effortless on stage. Yoshiko also shares a deeply personal chapter honoring her late father by opening a family Japanese restaurant. Making this conversation a heartfelt look at perseverance, passion, and building a life both on and off the stage. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy [https://art19.com/privacy] and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info [https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info].