Director of the McAninch Arts Center, Diana Martinez, takes you behind the scenes for an inside look at upcoming shows, events and more.
Backstage Buzz is currently airing on local WDCB-TV, Tuesdays and Thursdays at 11a & 7p and Sundays at 1:30p & 9:30p.
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Diana Martinez is joined by Steve Scott, Director of Birthday Candles, which will be on stage at the MAC May 7 thru June 7, 2026. This heartwarming tale of a woman from her 17th to her 101st birthday starring Connie Canaday Howard, is a kaleidoscope of life that will resonate with everyone. Buffalo Theatre Ensemble shows take place Thursday thru Saturday at 7:30pm and Sunday at 3:00pm.
Diana Martinez is joined by Matt Shevitz, Director of Jazz Ensembles and Music Department Co-chairperson, who shares new programs coming to COD Music and his thoughts on the greatest American musician or composer. The popularity and growth of the Jazz Ensembles created the need for a third ensemble; a Latin Jazz Ensemble being offered beginning Fall 2026. College Music programs offer more than classroom work to students including exposure to guest artist performances, monthly sectionals by local musicians, Music Fridays at Noon, and one-off clinics benefiting students by seeing musicians who are active in the music industry in many ways. Jazz Combo students in the Spring semester will have the opportunity to perform at regional jazz festivals and the DuPage Chorale students will be premiering a new work!
Jessica Kondrath, Adjunct Faculty, Dance, shares news of the new full-time dance program and Associates Degree in Dance now available to COD students. The program offers introductory through advanced coursework in dance appreciation, ballet, jazz, modern, tap, hip hop, choreography and composition, dance technology, dance pedagogy, and performance and production. Students benefit from rigorous technical training grounded in creative research, body mechanics, diverse aesthetics and scholarship, preparing students to become versatile, well-rounded dancers.
Diana Martinez welcomes Justin Witte, Cleve Carney Museum of Art Museum Manager and Curator, who discusses an exciting initiative planned in celebration of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the U.S. Declaration of Independence. Walking with Giants, an outdoor sculptural installation featuring larger-than-life colorful silhouettes depicting American artists, musicians, performers, and creators who have made lasting cultural contributions to the United States over its 250-year history, will be on display at the MAC on the College of DuPage campus in the Summer of 2026.
Diana Martinez shares the exciting lineup coming to the Lakeside Pavilion this summer. New this year, concerts will be on Wednesday and Thursday evenings. Join us for the return of our Lakeside Summer Series for free outdoor entertainment!
Join host Diana Martinez as she sits down with Maestro Kirk Muspratt, Music Director and Conductor of New Philharmonic—DuPage County’s only professional orchestra. Get an exclusive preview of the highly anticipated 2026/27 season, celebrating a spectacular 50th Anniversary! From the beloved Lakeside Concert to the full season lineup and the exciting new Classical Kids Live show, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Diana Martinez sits down with Daniel Millhouse, Interim Managing Artistic Director of the Buffalo Theatre Ensemble, for an inside look at the exciting 2026/27 season! Celebrating a milestone 40th Anniversary, this dynamic season features three unforgettable productions—from the heartfelt, family-friendly Little Women, to the edge-of-your-seat suspense of Dial M for Murder, a classic thriller packed with twists and intrigue, to the laugh-out-loud comedy One Man, Two Guvnors. With something for every kind of theater lover, this season is shaping up to be one you won’t want to miss.
Diana Martinez shares everything you need to know about the Lakeside Free Outdoor Summer Concert Series returning to the MAC. This year’s lineup brings an exciting mix of American artists, jazz favorites, symphonic pops, Broadway hits, and high-energy tribute bands—celebrating the MAC’s 40th anniversary and America’s 250th birthday. Enjoy two nights of live music every week—Brass/Jazz on Wednesdays and the concert series on Thursdays, all starting at 7:30pm. Grab your lawn chair, bring your friends, and experience unforgettable summer evenings filled with incredible music set against the beautiful lakeside backdrop.
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