A Message from the New Artistic and Managing Director
Hello Folx!
When Stephanie first approached us with the possibility of joining the RTO family, our almost immediate response was an enthusiastic “yes”! Both Francisco and I have been involved in various RTO productions throughout the years and appreciate the creativity and artistry that is the hallmark of this company’s work.
We are ecstatic to be joining RTO as Artistic and Managing Directors respectively.
Since its inception in 2018, dozens of artists have come together to tell bold and diverse stories to audiences all across the metro. Kent and Stephanie’s regard for the rich history of audio drama and their commitment to local artists have left a lasting legacy in the Omaha area. Both Francisco and I are committed to carrying on their work and hope to guide the company in new and exciting directions.
RTO will continue its mission to tell bold and diverse stories through the medium of audio drama, giving local artists a unique voice while engaging the community with dialogue and greater understanding.
Francisco and I hope to see all of you at our upcoming production of T. E. Mantil’s Perseverance, in partnership with the Shelterbelt Theatre this May.
Onwards and Upwards!
Jackson Newman, Artistic Director
Francisco Franco, Managing Director
Message from former Artistic Director Stephanie Kidd
Dear RTO Friends & Family –
Since its creation, Radio Theatre Omaha has held a dear place in my heart. When founder Kent Garlinghouse approached me to help build this theatre, I immediately said yes. Since its humble beginnings in 2018, I have had the opportunity to serve as Managing Director, Board President, and finally as Artistic Director. Every role has been a joy, and every production I have worked on has been a delight.
Early in 2024, I was diagnosed with breast cancer and decided to step back from several leadership roles in community organizations. This was not an easy decision. It was important for me and the RTO Board to find the right people to step in to lead RTO with the playful spirit of Kent and with the artistic administrative leadership I brought to RTO.
I am thrilled to announce that Jackson Newman will serve as RTO’s new Artistic Director, and Francisco Franco will serve as RTO’s new Managing Director. The Board voted unanimously to hire these artistic leaders and welcome them to the RTO family. I am confident that Radio Theatre Omaha is in good hands with my friends Jackson and Francisco, and I hope you will continue to support the work that RTO does. I know I will!
With all my heart,
Stephanie Kidd
Outgoing Artistic Director
THEY MAY REBEL, BUT THEY TRULY EXCEL
Experience one of the oldest forms of entertainment in a modernized way. Enjoy the art of the radio play, only you’ll see the actors, musicians, and sound effects people performing the work live on stage as they create Black Women Rebel which is currently playing at Benson Theatre under the auspices of Radio Theatre Omaha…
March 31, 2023
OMAHA’S GOT TALENT:
LOCAL RADIO THEATER GROUP ENGAGES WITH THE COMMUNITY
In Summer 2020 Kent Garlinghouse and Stephanie Kidd spoke with OMAHA Magazine about the history of the company and how RTO is staying busy in the middle of a global pandemic.
By Ryan Borchers, OMAHA Magazine,
Jun 24, 2020.
AUDIO DRAMA FINDS NEW LIFE VIA RADIO THEATRE OMAHA
By Leo Adam Biga, The Reader, November 20, 2019.
RADIO TALKING BOOKS INTERVIEW WITH STEPHANIE KIDD
In November 2019, Ryan Osentowski, Station Manager at Radio Talking Book Service, interviewed Radio Theatre Omaha Managing Director Stephanie Kidd about the RTO upcoming performances of The Christmas Pit and The Grinch Who Came to Dinner. Stephanie directed both of these shows.
RADIO TALKING BOOKS INTERVIEW WITH KENT GARLINGHOUSE
In early May of 2019, Ryan Osentowski, Station Manager at Radio Talking Book Service, interviewed Radio Theatre Omaha Artistic Director Kent Garlinghouse about audio drama and the RTO upcoming performances of The Dark Woods and Royal Renovations.