In this episode of Big Conversations, Little Bar, Yvonne Bell, the newly appointed CEO of the McCallum Theatre, shares her insights on leading the iconic desert venue. Discussing her transition from Development to CEO, Bell reveals plans for an expanded season and new programming aimed at engaging a broader audience. She highlights upcoming Broadway shows, dance performances, and the exciting integration of jazz and cabaret series. Bell also reflects on her unique career journey and the challenges and rewards of managing a theater. A must-listen for arts lovers and Coachella Valley residents and visitors eager to learn about the future of this cultural hub.

Takeaways:

· Yvonne Bell discusses her transition from development to CEO at McCallum Theatre.

· McCallum Theatre plans to expand its season, running from September to June.

· Seven to eight Broadway shows are slated for the 2026-2027 season.

· The McCallum aims to reach a more inclusive audience and serve the entire Coachella Valley.

· Yvonne highlights the importance of fostering collaboration with local and national arts organizations.

· New programming includes jazz, cabaret performances, and visual effects integration for younger audiences.

· The Muses’ revitalization has significantly increased fundraising, raising nearly $800K last year.

· Bell emphasizes the importance of donor relationships and creative partnerships for the theater’s success.

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In this lively episode, actor Steven Ciceron joins Patrick Evans and Randy Florence at Skip Paige’s Little Bar to share his journey from clinical psychologist to working actor. With over 50% audition success and roles across film, television, and theater, Ciceron discusses the discipline and humility that fuel his craft. He dives into his passion for horror, balancing dark characters with a naturally affable personality, and how his psychology background enhances his performances. The conversation spans from his early theater days in New York to international shoots in Berlin and Stockholm, casting insights, and the occasional awkward moment on set. The trio also touches on industry myths, method acting, nudity on screen, and the ongoing hustle behind a true working actor’s career. From laugh-out-loud moments to genuine reflections, it’s a candid look at a multifaceted performer who embraces every challenge.

Takeaways:

• Steven Ciceron transitioned from psychology to acting, blending both disciplines.
• He has worked internationally and across genres, with a preference for horror.
• His background helps him develop nuanced, emotionally rich characters.
• Despite success, he stays grounded, continuing acting classes regularly.
• Ciceron sees casting and directing as growth areas but prioritizes acting.
• He believes method acting works best when combined with psychology.
• Independent films often provide him lead roles, while major productions offer cameos.
• He’s candid about the realities of auditions, agents, and balancing personal life.

#BigConversationsLittleBarPodcast #PatrickEvans #RandyFlorence #SkipsLittleBar #SkipPaige #CoachellaValley #McCallumTheatre #DesertPodcast #FamousInterviewGuests #InterviewPodcast #MutualBroadcastingSystem #BigConversationsLittleBarPodcast #PatrickEvans #RandyFlorence #SkipsLittleBar #SkipPaige #CoachellaValley #McCallumTheatre #DesertPodcast #FamousInterviewGuests #InterviewPodcast #MutualBroadcastingSystem

In this episode of Big Conversations, Little Bar, Patrick Evans and Randy Florence welcome acclaimed photographer, author, artist, and actress Mary Ann Halpin for a heartfelt and often hilarious chat. From her beginnings in Chicago to her transformative work behind the camera in Los Angeles, Mary Ann shares how life’s twists—like infertility—led to her groundbreaking photo books, including Pregnant Goddesshood and the Fearless Women series. The trio dives into her viral Super Bowl commercial appearance, her improv roots, and her marriage to piano man Joe Croyle. Along the way, Mary Ann opens up about personal reinvention, creative burnout, and the healing power of joy and photography. With vivid stories about Joni Mitchell and Erin Brockovich, and reflections on aging, identity, and art, this episode is an inspiring testament to fearless living—messy moments and all.

Takeaways:

• Mary Ann Halpin’s Super Bowl commercial role was a full-circle moment from her early acting days.
• Her photo book Pregnant Goddesshood was born from her personal experience with infertility.
• She has photographed and befriended legends like Joni Mitchell and Erin Brockovich.
• Mary Ann emphasizes the importance of embracing failure as part of creativity.
• She uses her background in acting to draw authenticity from her photography subjects.
• Her Fearless Women books became the basis of a nonprofit and national tour.
• Halpin candidly discusses anxiety, burnout, and the path to mental well-being.
• Humor, self-care, and artistic expression fuel her resilience and ongoing projects.

#BigConversationsLittleBarPodcast #PatrickEvans #RandyFlorence #SkipsLittleBar #SkipPaige #CoachellaValley #McCallumTheatre #DesertPodcast #FamousInterviewGuests #InterviewPodcast #MutualBroadcastingSystem #MaryAnnHalpin #FearlessWomen #PhotographyLife #ActressTurnedPhotographer #SuperBowlCommercialStar #CreativeReinvention #EmpoweredAging #PalmDesertArts #ImprovCommunity