Whether you’re passionate about the performing arts or curious about building community through creativity, this episode is packed with insights, inspiration, and practical ways to support and connect with the arts in Columbus.
In this episode, hosts Brett Johnson and Carol Ventresca sit down with Christy Farnbaugh, executive director of the Contemporary Theatre of Ohio. Columbus has long been known for its vibrant arts community, and today, Christy shares her journey from Otterbein music major to arts administration leader, highlighting the importance of mentors, networks, and resilience in the arts.
We explore the role of the Contemporary Theatre of Ohio—formerly CATCO—and its impact on local artists, education programs for kids, and community building. Christy reveals how the organization navigated a dramatic transformation during the pandemic, from rebranding to embracing virtual performances, and discusses the importance of intergenerational connections and producing timely, empathetic stories for Central Ohio.
Moments
00:00 "Christy's Theater Journey Unveiled"
09:59 "Pursuing Passion Amid Challenges"
15:49 "Career Paths and Connections"
20:21 "Arts and Community Value Proposition"
23:42 "Revamping Name and Brand Strategy"
28:58 "Columbus Talent with Local Ties"
33:13 "Kids' Anxiety Through Humor"
39:25 "Pandemic, Laughter, and Aging Arts"
44:40 Empowering Kids Through Writing
51:34 "Zoom and Teams' Lasting Impact"
58:46 "Diverse Plays for Columbus"
01:00:13 "Primary Trust: Identity and Imagination"
01:04:39 Volunteer Opportunities and Education Involvement
If you like this episode, please let us know. We appreciate the feed back, and your support of offset costs of producing the podcast!
Key Takeaways:
- The Power of Local Storytelling: The Contemporary Theatre of Ohio tells stories rooted in the current moment to build empathy, hiring local artists so the art created directly enriches our community.
- Building an Ecosystem, not Competition: Columbus boasts a unique arts ecosystem, where professional, community, and educational theaters work together to expand opportunities for artists, creators, and audiences.
- Arts as a Vehicle for Wellness & Growth: Whether through creative aging programs, anxiety-reducing children’s workshops, or supporting mentorship, theater provides pathways for well-being, social-emotional learning, and intergenerational connection.
We would love to hear from you.
Give us your feedback, or suggest a topic, by leaving us a voice message.
Email us at hello@lookingforwardourway.com.
Find us on Bluesky and Facebook.
Please review our podcast on Google!
And of course, everything can be found on our website, Looking Forward Our Way.
Recorded in Studio C at 511 Studios. A production of Circle 270 Media® Podcast Consultants.
https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/
Copyright 2026 Carol Ventresca and Brett Johnson
Mentioned in this episode:
Listener Disclaimer
The views and opinions expressed by the experts interviewed on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the podcast hosts or any affiliated organizations. The information provided in these interviews is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Listeners are encouraged to consult with qualified professionals for specific advice or information related to their individual circumstances. The podcast host and producers do not endorse or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information provided by the experts interviewed. Listener discretion is advised.
