Polish Fest, Les Paul's Lasting Impact, & George & Gracie's Love Story

About this episode

This episode celebrates Wisconsin's culture with discussions on Polish Fest, Les Paul's legacy, and a new play about George Burns and Gracie Allen.

On this episode of What's on Tap with Sandy Maxx, we celebrate Wisconsin's rich culture, music, theater, and tourism. Polish Center of Wisconsin Executive Director Jeff Kuderski previews Polish Fest 2025, highlighting authentic Polish food, live music, folk dancing, cultural traditions, family activities, and the volunteers who help make one of Milwaukee's most beloved festivals possible. Then, Sandy explores the legacy of Les Paul, the Wisconsin-born guitar pioneer and recording innovator, with a look at Waukesha's new Guitar Town Music Festival. Learn about the free event, live Wisconsin bands, instrument experiences for kids, a Gibson Les Paul guitar giveaway, and the mission of the Chad Smith Foundation to expand access to music education. In Hour 2, acclaimed Milwaukee performers Tami Workentin and James Pickering discuss George & Gracie: A Love Story, the Milwaukee Rep world-premiere play that brings the romance, comedy, and entertainment legacy of George Burns and Gracie Allen to the stage. Hear the real-life inspiration behind the production, the extensive research that shaped the script, and the remarkable story of one of entertainment's most enduring partnerships. Plus…

People in this episode

Host: Sandy Maxx

Guests: Jeff Kuderski, Tami Workentin, James Pickering

Topics covered

• Polish culture
• music festivals
• theater
• tourism
• entertainment history

Keywords

• Polish Fest
• Les Paul
• George Burns
• Gracie Allen
• Wisconsin tourism
• music education
• Milwaukee Rep

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Chad Smith Foundation, Polish Center of Wisconsin, Milwaukee Rep

Books & works: George & Gracie: A Love Story, A Cherry Pie Christmas

Places: Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Waukesha

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