Omaha Entertainment and Arts Awards Podcast

Indecent ran at the Bluebarn Theater here in Omaha in 2019 and picked up an impressive 9 OEA awards, including outstanding director, outstanding Drama, and outstanding Actor for Jonathan Purcell. You could call it a play within a play, centered around the creation of the 1906 script, God of Vengeance, by Sholem Asch. God of Vengeance was forced to close shortly after its Broadway opening on charges of obscenity. It featured prostitution, throwing of the Torah among other religious commentaries, and two women sharing a kiss. Indecent was written in 2015 by Paula Vogel, who collaborated with Rebecca Taichman.

Jonathan is an Omaha native, with a degree in Theater Performance from Creighton. In college, he co-founded the student-run troupe, F-Troupe Productions. Since then, he started a film company with friends called H-Minus Productions, where he has co-written and produced several short films, music videos, and a feature-length documentary. He acts in multiple plays in the Omaha area. He was also a part of the establishment of the Drew Billings Artist Support Grant. Jonathan works as an adaptive Therapy Specialist at the Munroe-Meyer Institute on UNMC’s Campus.

Andrew Bailie is an American songwriter, singer, and guitarist. His intricate songs are crafted with raw emotion, fierce guitar work, and an unmistakable, soaring voice. He has toured across the US and Europe with the legendary gospel and funk organist Cory Henry, a founding member of Cory Henry & The Funk Apostles. Andrew is best known in Omaha for his projects The Jazzwholes and It’s True. He has also worked with platinum recording artist Aloe Blacc, Ms. Lauryn Hill, Mononeon, members of Snarky Puppy and has shared the stage with George Clinton, Lalah Hathaway, Bernie Sanders, and many others. Andrew is currently pursuing new projects with jazz great and sensei Dana Murray. Andrew won outstanding R&B artist at this year's OEA awards.

Esencia Latina is a thirteen piece band,  with an eclectic group of musicians from all over Latin America and the US. Two-time winner of the OEAA for Best World Music, Esencia Latina aims to share our love of salsa music with audiences and inspire them to dance with along. Esencia Latina has performed at many venues including Jazz on the Green, the Holland Center, many local and regional festivals, as well as private events.  During non-pandemic times Esencia Latina can be heard monthly as Rhythmz Lounge on 108th & Q.

DEATHGOD is a self-taught rap artist, songwriter, and producer based out of Omaha, Nebraska. His musical inclinations provide a versatile style transcending genre definitions. From Hip Hop to Rap, as well as R&B influences. DEATHGOD’s eclectic and mystical sound intersected with vibe-uplifting performances allows the audience to be their ecstatic free selves which sets him aside from his peers. Death God won Outstanding new artist at this year’s Omaha Entertainment and Arts Awards.