Best Flashlight Learning Podcasts (2025)

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Lynda Espinoza Idle: Empowering Multilingual Learners with Dual Needs 54:33

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12d ago54:33

54:33

With nearly four decades in education, Lynda Espinoza Idle is a passionate advocate for all multilingual learners—especially those with dual needs. Today on the ML Chat Podcast, she shares how collaboration, tiered support systems, data, and family partnerships can transform outcomes. She also explains why early identification matters. With an asse…

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Beverly Kerr: Driving Equity and Success in ML Classrooms 57:38

26d ago57:38

57:38

With 26 years of experience, Beverly Kerr joins the ML Chat Podcast to share how Title I schools, among others, can create equitable and inclusive ML classrooms. She emphasizes the importance of building relationships and addressing the needs of dually identified and trauma-affected learners. Discover how foundational literacy, structured intervent…

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S7 Ep3: The Night Watch Mystery, Part 2 36:31

27d ago36:31

36:31

In Part 2 of The Night Watch Mystery, we step deeper into the shadows of Rembrandt’s masterpiece. This chapter traces the strange and violent history of the painting’s attacks, explores the accusations that swirled around the militia it depicts, and considers what these stories reveal about Amsterdam in the 1600s. Alongside the canvas, we follow Re…

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Honoring Language & Empowering Educators with Valentina Gonzalez 45:17

1M ago45:17

45:17

You’ll be inspired by this week’s ML Chat guest, Valentina Gonzalez. Her journey began as an immigrant and language learner, and she is now a 25-year veteran in multilingual education and co-author of Welcome to Teaching Multilingual Learners. An advocate for ML students and language-rich classrooms, Valentina supports teachers through embedded coa…

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From Actor to Electrician: How Lighting Design Transforms Live Performances 16:18

1M ago16:18

16:18

Let's Meet Shaly Farmer, Lighting Technician With The Lincoln Theatre What happens when the lights go down and the spotlight comes up? Behind every perfectly illuminated performance at The Lincoln Theatre stands Shaly Farmer, whose artistic vision transforms the historic stage into a canvas of light and shadow. Growing up in Marion, Shaly remembers…

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Being an Usher at The Lincoln: Flashlights, Friendly Faces, and Fleetwood Mac 9:59

2M ago9:59

9:59

What's It Like To Volunteer As An Usher For A Lincoln Show? The curtain rises on a different kind of spotlight in this heartwarming conversation with Mary LeClaire, a dedicated volunteer usher at the historic Lincoln Theatre. While most patrons marvel at the 1929 Mayan revival architecture or the performers on stage, Mary reveals the magic happenin…

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Dr. Merica Clinkenbeard: Maximizing Resources, Serving Every Learner 51:05

2M ago51:05

51:05

How do you serve multilingual learners across a large district using current resources? In this episode of the ML Chat Podcast, Dr. Merica Clinkenbeard, Director of ELD for Springfield Public Schools, Missouri, shares how she leverages collaboration, teacher leadership, and language-rich instruction to drive systemic change. She also reflects on la…

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Maggie Churchill: Structure that Supports, Flexibility that Inspires 52:33

2M ago52:33

52:33

Join the ML Chat conversation with Maggie Churchill, veteran ESL Language Arts teacher and adjunct at William Paterson University. She shares how consistent routines and flexibility create stability for multilingual learners—especially those facing trauma, post-COVID challenges, and disrupted education. Discover how project-based lessons, teacher c…

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One District, 26 Languages: Building Literacy with Heather Benitez 51:45

3M ago51:45

51:45

Tune in to the ML Chat Podcast for practical strategies to create literacy-rich classrooms. Heather Benitez, ESL Coordinator and veteran teacher, shares how she fosters academic discourse and builds structured literacy routines across content areas. Serving a Texas district with 26 languages, Heather champions culturally responsive teaching, ongoin…

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From Load-In to Standing Ovation: The Hidden Magic of Show Day 14:53

3M ago14:53

14:53

What's It Like Backstage At The Lincoln? Step behind the curtain of Marion, Virginia's historic Lincoln Theatre as Executive Director Bob Watkins reveals what really happens on show day. This rare glimpse into the unseen world of theatre production transforms how you'll experience your next live performance. While audiences enjoy a polished 2.5-hou…

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The Woman Behind the Curtain: Hannah Combs on Theatre Management and Community Arts 14:29

3M ago14:29

14:29

Meet Hannah Combs - House Manager And Director Of Community Theatre Hannah Combs is the welcoming smile at the door and the creative force behind The Lincoln Theatre's theatrical heartbeat. As House Manager, she's the one solving problems before they reach the executive director—from injuries to broken glass from baby bottles to disgruntled patrons…

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Heather Nyseth: The Coach-Teacher Connection in ML Education 52:36

3M ago52:36

52:36

ELD coach and teacher Heather Nyseth brings a unique dual perspective to the ML Chat Podcast. She shares how coach-teacher relationship-building, professional development with teacher choice, and reflective practices have fueled growth across her district. Heather highlights the resilience of multilingual learners and how collaboration among educat…

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S7 Ep2: The Night Watch Mystery, Part 1 31:59

3M ago31:59

31:59

Step into the shadows of Rembrandt’s most famous painting. Was The Night Watch always this dark, or is something hidden beneath the varnish? In this first episode, we begin unraveling a centuries-old art mystery that’s more than meets the eye. See the Night Watch painting by Rembrandt Van Rijn at the Rijks Museum in Amsterdam, Netherlands (Painting…

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When Language & Literacy Meet with Floyd County Experts 49:10

3M ago49:10

49:10

Join our esteemed panel of educators as they reflect on their mission to integrate the science of reading into ESL instruction. Dr. Jennifer Pendergrass-Bennefield, Dr. Tabatha Tierce, Dr. David Chiesa, and Assistant Superintendent John Parker discuss Georgia’s dyslexia law and how ESL, special education, and general education teams can work togeth…

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Dr. Marlowe Cross & Jon Auld: Multilingual Support in Secondary Education 59:50

4M ago59:50

59:50

In today’s MLChat, Dr. Marlowe Cross and Jon Auld from Metro Nashville Public Schools share their experiences supporting teachers and multilingual learners as EL coaches. Discover practical strategies for integrating English language development into secondary content classes for accelerated student growth. Plus, explore how modeling, feedback, ref…

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Community, Creativity, and Culture: The Lincoln Theatre's Impact in Marion 9:42

5M ago9:42

9:42

Introducing The Community To The Arts At The Lincoln Step into the enchanting world of The Lincoln Theatre, where history meets artistry in the heart of Marion, Virginia. Our latest episode unveils how this magnificent 1929 Mayan revival theatre has evolved from a historic landmark into a thriving cultural centerpiece for Southwest Virginia. Execut…

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Endowments: Supporting The Lincoln Theatre's Future Beyond a Lifetime 9:53

5M ago9:53

9:53

Can I Support The Lincoln With An Endowment And How Does That Work? What happens when your passion for the arts lives beyond your lifetime? In this illuminating conversation, Lincoln Theatre Executive Director Bob Watkins reveals how endowment gifts create lasting legacies while ensuring the historic venue's future. The Lincoln Theatre has stood as…

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Co-teaching Models: Impacts on Multilingual Learners with Graham Litterst 47:38

5M ago47:38

47:38

If your goal is to offer multilingual students an inclusive and supportive environment, you won’t want to miss this episode of the ML Chat Podcast. EL Coordinator Graham Litters discusses the value of co-teaching models, sharing strategies to encourage student interaction, language usage, and engagement. With double the support, English Learners th…

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Rewriting the Future with Martha Boisselle and Kristen Leathers 46:26

5M ago46:26

46:26

This episode of ML Chat is a love letter to multilingual learners and the teachers who fight for them. Mandi Morris sits down with Martha Boisselle and Kristen Leathers, whose work in Boston Public Schools is transforming what it means to teach English—not as a barrier, but as a bridge. It’s a story of heart, courage, and the power of educators to …

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Seeing Students, Changing Systems with Steve Gill & Marcelo Sousa 1:08:27

6M ago1:08:27

1:08:27

In this episode of ML Chat, Steve Gill and Marcelo Sousa engage in a powerful conversation about what it truly means to support multilingual learners. Drawing on their personal experiences and decades of work in schools, they discuss how empathy, mentorship, and listening to students' stories can transform education. It’s a poignant reminder that r…

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The Lincoln's Lifeline: How Community Support Fuels a Historic Theatre 8:01

6M ago8:01

8:01

What Is Friends Of The Lincoln And What Impact Does It Have On The Organization? The curtain rises on a story of community dedication as Bob Watkins, Executive Director of the historic Lincoln Theatre, shines a spotlight on the unsung heroes keeping this cultural cornerstone alive - the Friends of The Lincoln. Since the late 1990s, when renovation …

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Show Day Secrets: The Hidden Magic of The Lincoln Theatre 9:42

6M ago9:42

9:42

Lights, Camera, Action: Performance Day At The Lincoln! The curtain rises on a magical performance, and the audience is captivated—but what happens in the 13 hours before that moment? Bob Watkins, Executive Director of the historic Lincoln Theatre, pulls back the velvet curtain to reveal the carefully choreographed chaos that precedes every seamles…

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The Multilingual Toolbox: Strategies That Speak Every Student’s Language with Dr. Sugely Solano 46:39

6M ago46:39

46:39

Join the ML-Chat Podcast as Dr. Suha Solano, a trailblazing leader for multilingual learners, shares her powerful journey from the Dominican Republic to Delaware’s Brandywine School District. With heart, humor, and hard-earned wisdom, she dives into the tools and strategies transforming classrooms into empowering spaces for all!…

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Dr. Ester De Jong: Building Strong Education from the Inside Out 56:33

7M ago56:33

56:33

Is curiosity the secret ingredient to success in education? This week’s ML Chat Podcast highlights Dr. Ester De Jong, a trailblazer in bilingual education. From beginning her career in the Netherlands to shaping ESL education in the U.S., Dr. De Jong shares why curiosity is key to a thriving teaching career and how self reflection empowers educator…

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Stage Left: The Unexpected Ways A Historic Theatre Raises The Next Generation 7:07

7M ago7:07

7:07

How Does The Lincoln Theatre Collaborate With Local Non-profits And Community Organizations To Support Their Mission? Step behind the curtain of Marion, Virginia's historic Lincoln Theatre as Executive Director Bob Watkins reveals how this magnificent 1929 Mayan revival venue balances entertainment excellence with deep community service. Far more t…

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The Lincoln Theatre: Where Magic Meets Meticulous Planning 8:47

7M ago8:47

8:47

What Is A Day In The Life Of The Lincoln Theatre Like In The Preparation For A Performance? What really happens before the applause begins at a historic theatre? In this revealing conversation with The Lincoln Theatre's Executive Director Bob Watkins, we pull back the curtain on the intricate dance that brings each performance to life in Marion, Vi…

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Leslie Jones and Adriana Cernucan: Multilinguals are the Powerhouse of the Classroom 45:56

7M ago45:56

45:56

In this episode of the ML Chat Podcast, ML-specialist Adriana Cernucan and K-12 science coordinator Leslie Jones dish out how they’re supercharging language learning with content-based science classes. By blending language goals with science lessons, they’re helping students boost both writing and content skills—flipping multilingualism from a chal…

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Jeanette Mercer: The Impact of Inclusivity 49:43

8M ago49:43

49:43

As the Director of Multilingual Instructional Support at Aldine ISD, Jeanette Mercer leads the charge in supporting over 57,000 students across 80 campuses. Jeanette joins the ML Chat Podcast and reveals the game-changing strategies behind her district’s success, and how teachers and students alike are reaping the rewards of culturally inclusive te…

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S7 Ep1: Mothman Metamorphosis: Steel & Paint, Part 2 1:05:07

8M ago1:05:07

1:05:07

Part 2 about the Mothman legend and subsequent art. Stories about the area the legend grew up in, Point Pleasant, West Virgina. Learn about artists Frank Frazetta and Bob Roach and their iconic mothman pieces. Mothman has been identified by some as a portent to the tragic collapse of the Silver Bridge in Point Pleasant, WV. Episode Image Source: fr…

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How the Historic Lincoln Theatre Fuels Marion's Growth and Tourism 6:31

8M ago6:31

6:31

What Impact Does The Lincoln Theatre Have On Economic Development In Marion, VA? The Lincoln Theatre doesn't merely preserve history—it actively shapes the economic future of Marion, Virginia. With nearly 18,000 visitors annually traveling specifically for performances, this majestic Mayan revival venue has transformed from a cultural landmark into…

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Film Freaks: Exploring Cinema Beyond the Mainstream at The Lincoln Theatre 13:19

8M ago13:19

13:19

Meet Kate Aanerud, Film Curator With The Lincoln Kate Annerud believes everyone deserves a film school education—even if they've never stepped foot on a college campus. At The Lincoln Theatre's increasingly popular Film Freaks series, she's making that happen one monthly screening at a time. Drawing from her formal film studies background at Illino…

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Sarah Whitfield: Going with the Flow 43:54

8M ago43:54

43:54

On this episode of the ML Chat podcast, we dive into Sarah Whitfield’s rapidly changing world as a District ML Instructional Specialist for Cabarrus County Schools. As the ML population in North Carolina grows, Sarah and her district grow along with it, developing enrichment programs and inclusive teaching practices that have students and teachers …

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Lauren MacLean: Community Care and Collaboration 47:09

9M ago47:09

47:09

Educator Lauren MacLean has found a powerful community-based approach to teaching multilingual learners. In this week’s ML Chat podcast, Lauren shows us the importance of building meaningful connections with students and their families, playing to a student’s strengths, and how teachers can learn from their students in return.…

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Driving Regional Growth: Bob Watkins on Transforming The Lincoln Theatre into a Tourism Magnet 8:22

9M ago8:22

8:22

How Does The Lincoln Theatre Contribute To Regional Tourism In Smith County, VA? Want to learn about boosting regional tourism and economic vitality in Marion, Virginia? Join us as we chat with Bob Watkins, the executive director of the historic Lincoln Theatre. Curious about how a theatre can become a cornerstone of community collaboration? Find o…

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The Revitalization & Reimagination of The Lincoln Theatre 6:49

9M ago6:49

6:49

Are There Any Plans To Expand The Types Of Performances To Live Theatre? What if a piece of history could transform into the heartbeat of a community? Join us as we chat with Bob Watkins, the dedicated executive director of The Lincoln Theatre, who is spearheading a remarkable revival of this iconic venue in Marion, Virginia. With a blend of nostal…

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D-I-WHY: Creating Language-Rich Learning with Katie Toppel 1:10:04

9M ago1:10:04

1:10:04

Get schooled by our latest discussion with Dr. Kate Toppel, educator, organizer, and author of DIY PD: A Guide to Self-Directed Learning for Educators of Multilingual Learners. She shares strategies for successful co-teaching, balancing responsibilities with motherhood, and the power of K.I.S.S. - Keeping It Simple, (for) Students.…

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Erick Olivas: Kicking Down Barriers 41:29

9M ago41:29

41:29

Erick Olivas joins the ML Chat Podcast to share about his journey of immigrating to the U.S. with his family at age 2. Hear about his parents’ sacrifice, overcoming the language barrier, and how playing soccer kept his feet on the ground through it all.By Flashlight Learning

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Fusing Tradition with Today's Entertainment at The Lincoln Theatre 6:57

10M ago6:57

6:57

What Is The Lincoln Theatre Doing To Try And Bring Back Some Of That Magic From The 30s And 40s? Bob Watkins, the executive director of The Lincoln Theatre, takes us on a mesmerizing journey into the heart of Marion, Virginia’s cherished Mayan revival theatre. Ever wondered how a historical venue can rekindle the golden age of cinema while catering…

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Tim White Introduces the Song of the Mountains 12:22

10M ago12:22

12:22

Meet Tim White, Executive Coordinator of the Song of The Mountains Embark on a musical journey through the heart of Appalachian traditions with our special guest, Tim White, executive coordinator of the renowned series, Song of the Mountains. Discover how a fortuitous 2004 encounter at the charming Lincoln Theatre in Marion, Virginia, sparked the c…

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Erick Casallas: Advancing Equity for English Learners 53:00

10M ago53:00

53:00

In this ML Chat Podcast episode, hosts Justin Hewett and Mandi Morris talk with Erick Casallas, Assistant Superintendent for English Learners in Clark County, Las Vegas. Erick shares his journey from school volunteer to district leader, offering insights on supporting English learners through love, respect, and active student participation.…

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Exploring the Creative Pulse of The Lincoln Theatre's Programming 7:06

11M ago7:06

7:06

How Do You Book Shows/Entertainment Talent At The Lincoln Theatre? How do you turn a historic venue into a modern-day cultural hub? Discover the secrets behind The Lincoln Theatre's eclectic lineup with Bob Watkins, the theatre's executive director, who shares insights on curating a perfect mix of popular acts and fresh talent. Bob and Skip Mauney …

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Adapting to Change: Bob Watkins on the Future of Live Theatre at The Lincoln 7:17

11M ago7:17

7:17

What Are The Biggest Challenges Facing Performance Halls Today? Discover the art of adaptation in the world of live theatre with our special guest, Executive Director Bob Watkins, who shares his invaluable insights on the evolving challenges of running a historic venue like The Lincoln Theatre. From the economic pressures squeezing performance hall…

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Jessica Payano: Strategies for Supporting Multilingual Learners in Content Classes 47:26

11M ago47:26

47:26

In this episode of the ML Chat Podcast, Justin Hewett and Mandi Morris chat with Jessica Payano, a former NYC science teacher and educational consultant. Jessica shares tips for integrating language learning into content classes, building schema, and activating prior knowledge. Learn high-impact, low-effort strategies and how empathy and collaborat…

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Meg Burke and Bethany Gale: Building Professional Learning Networks 49:37

11M ago49:37

49:37

In this ML Chat Podcast episode, hosts Justin Hewett and Mandy Morris welcome seasoned educators Meg Burke and Bethany Gale to discuss building impactful professional learning networks (PLNs). They share insights on creating effective PLNs, their WIDA conference presentation, and the power of flexible professional learning, all centered on student …

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Shawn Ford: Empowering Future TESOL Educators 58:33

12M ago58:33

58:33

In this episode of the ML Chat Podcast, hosts Justin Hewett and Mandi Morris dive into an inspiring talk with Shawn Ford, an educator from Kapi'olani Community College in Hawai'i. Shawn reveals his unexpected path into teaching and the game-changing Second Language Teaching Program that’s shaping future TESOL educators with real-world skills. Disco…

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Preserving Heritage: The Lincoln Theatre's Legacy and Community Impact 6:09

12M ago6:09

6:09

How Can I Support The Lincoln Theatre, Marion VA? Bob Watkins, the passionate executive director of The Lincoln Theatre, unveils the rich tapestry of this historic venue and its pivotal role in Marion, Virginia's cultural landscape. Join us as Bob shares the theatre's awe-inspiring journey from its Mayan revival debut in 1929 to its vibrant present…

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Unveiling Marion's Gems: The Lincoln Theatre's Legacy and Appalachian Adventures 6:37

12M ago6:37

6:37

What Else Is There To Do While Visiting The Lincoln Theatre in Marion, Virginia? Executive Director Bob Watkins takes us on a captivating journey through the history and ongoing legacy of The Lincoln Theatre, a cultural gem in Marion, Virginia. Uncover the secrets of this Mayan revival masterpiece, which opened its doors in 1929, as Bob highlights …

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Mary Castanuela: Balancing Heritage and Education 1:08:00

1y ago1:08:00

1:08:00

Don't miss this episode of the ML Chat Podcast, where Mary Castanuela, a first-generation Mexican American and Regional Testing Coordinator, shares her journey of balancing cultural heritage with educational success. Mary offers powerful insights on supporting bilingual students, fostering collaboration, and preserving heritage languages.…

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Unveiling the Magic: Tales and Transformations of Marion's Lincoln Theatre 7:38

1y ago7:38

7:38

What Upcoming Shows Are Scheduled At The Lincoln Theatre, Marion VA? Step into the enchanting world of The Lincoln Theatre with our special guest, Executive Director Bob Watkins, as he guides us through the captivating tales behind this Mayan revival masterpiece in Marion, Virginia. Ever wondered what it was like when Roy Rogers graced the stage or…

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Discovering Marion's Gem: The Lincoln Theatre’s Blend of History and Modern Entertainment 7:00

1y ago7:00

7:00

How Can I Buy Tickets For Events At The Lincoln Theatre? Unlock the secrets behind Marion, Virginia's historic Lincoln Theatre with our special guest, Executive Director Bob Watkins. Ever wondered how a nearly century-old Mayan revival theatre remains a cultural cornerstone while keeping up with modern entertainment demands? Bob takes us on a fasci…