Lois Reitzes Retires from WABE: Celebrating a Radio Icon’s Journey in Atlanta Broadcasting

Atlanta Radio Icon Lois Reitzes Retires, Leaving a Legacy of Arts Advocacy

After 45 years of championing the arts in Atlanta, Lois Reitzes is retiring from her daily broadcasting duties at WABE. Her final Atlanta Symphony broadcasts will continue through March, marking the end of an era for “City Lights,” her long-running show known for its dedication too diverse artistic voices across the metro area.

A Champion of Emerging and Mid-Size Arts Organizations

Reitzes’s show has always prioritized variety, showcasing artists from various disciplines. She emphasized the importance of supporting organizations beyond the mainstream, stating, “Not to take away anything from the mainstream arts organizations — the ASO, the Alliance, the High, Atlanta Opera, which all are so vital to the quality of life in Atlanta — but part of what is exciting is to see the dedication and the energy surrounding emerging arts organizations and the midsize ones.”

• Horizon Theater: Reitzes fondly recalls her early conversations with Lisa and Jeff Adler of Horizon Theatre, hearing how they transformed their wedding gifts into an Atlanta institution.
• Visual Arts Explosion: She celebrates the current thriving scene of visual arts, galleries, and muralists in Atlanta.

Reitzes passionately believes in the power of media exposure to bolster the arts community: “To the degree that some exposure on our station creating some awareness can bring people in to help fill seats,it’s a real privilege.” This dedication has helped countless artists and organizations reach a broader audience.

Moments of Glamour and Profound Connection

Reitzes’s career has been filled with memorable moments, including interviewing some of the world’s most renowned artists and cultural figures.

Interviewing Yo-Yo Ma

One of her most cherished experiences was interviewing cellist Yo-Yo Ma. “This man is not only an extraordinary artist but of the deepest humanity; he has a glow and radiance to him,” Reitzes recalls, highlighting Ma’s artistic brilliance and profound humanity.

Meeting President Jimmy Carter

She also had the distinct honor of interviewing President Jimmy Carter about his poetry book. “I was so impressed not just for his love of the arts but the breadth of his taste in music and the people he brought to perform at the White House,” she noted, admiring his deep thankfulness for the arts.

These encounters reflect the high caliber of personalities Reitzes engaged with throughout her career, underscoring her significant contribution to arts journalism.

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Image Credit: Rodney Ho

The Future of “City Lights”

While Reitzes is stepping down from her daily role, “City Lights” will continue with new contributors.She remains open to future appearances, ensuring her voice will still resonate within Atlanta’s arts community.”The station’s leadership is fully committed to arts and culture. I think it will evolve in another iteration, maybe with more contributors. I have the welcome and encouragement of my team and our leadership to contribute to ‘City Lights’ whenever I like, so that is pretty exciting.”

Looking Ahead: More Time for the Arts

retirement will allow Reitzes more opportunities to experience the arts firsthand with her husband. “It’s a labor-intensive job which I love, but I’m usually too tired to go out on weeknights and ther are only a couple of weekends available. I will have more time with my husband to go to more concerts, galleries, plays, films, comedians.”

gratitude and Reflection on a Lasting impact

Reitzes feels deeply grateful for her 45 years of stewarding arts and culture at WABE.”It is so amazing to realize the impact this show and our station has had on the arts community. How lucky am I to have the job where I can talk to people about their passion, learn more about their creativity, connect that creative to the listener, a wider public, and improve the experience of what an individual is going through. I have not lost sight of it.”

Her departure marks the end of a significant chapter in Atlanta’s arts broadcasting, leaving a legacy of passion, dedication, and profound impact on the community.

conclusion: celebrating a Legacy and Looking Forward

Lois Reitzes’s retirement marks the end of an era for arts broadcasting in Atlanta. Her dedication to showcasing diverse voices and supporting emerging artists has left an indelible mark on the city’s cultural landscape. As “city Lights” evolves, her contributions will continue to inspire future generations of arts advocates. We encourage you to explore the vibrant arts scene in Atlanta and support the organizations highlighted by Lois Reitzes throughout her remarkable career. Check your local listings for arts events near you.

What is Lois Reitzes most passionate about highlighting in the Atlanta arts scene?

Atlanta’s Arts Advocate: A Farewell Interview with Lois Reitzes on Her Retirement

For 45 years, lois Reitzes has been a cornerstone of Atlanta’s arts scene, broadcasting passion and knowledge into countless homes through WABE’s “City Lights.” As she steps down from her daily duties,we at Archyde had the distinct pleasure of speaking with her about her remarkable career,her love for Atlanta’s artists,and what’s next.

A Conversation with a Broadcasting Icon

Archyde: Lois, thank you so much for taking the time. It’s an honour to speak with you after your astonishing 45 years with WABE. You’ve dedicated your career to championing the arts in Atlanta. What initially drew you to arts broadcasting?

Lois Reitzes: Thank you for having me, Archyde. It’s been a privilege. What drew me in was the sheer human element of it all. Every artist, every performance, every gallery has a story to tell. And to be the conduit, to connect those stories to a wider audience, felt incredibly meaningful from day one.

Supporting emerging Artists and Cultural Institutions

Archyde: “City Lights” has always been known for its focus on both established and emerging arts organizations. You’ve highlighted the importance of supporting those smaller, often overlooked groups. Why is that so crucial for a thriving arts ecosystem?

lois Reitzes: You no, Atlanta has such a rich tapestry of artistic talent. While our major institutions like the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, the Alliance Theater, and the High Museum are vital, it’s the emerging and mid-size arts organizations that often push boundaries, experiment, and bring fresh perspectives. Supporting them ensures diversity and innovation within our cultural landscape. Think about Lisa and Jeff Adler turning their wedding gifts into the Horizon Theatre! It’s those kinds of stories of passion and dedication that fuel Atlanta’s artistic soul.

Memorable Encounters and Lasting Impressions

archyde: Over four decades, you must have had countless memorable interviews. meeting Yo-Yo Ma and President Carter stand out.What made those, and others like them, so special?

Lois Reitzes: Each interview was unique, but the ones that resonated most were with individuals who possessed not just artistic genius, but also remarkable humanity. Yo-Yo Ma, as I’ve said before, has that undeniable radiance. And President Carter’s genuine love and knowledge of the arts were truly inspiring. Those encounters reinforced the power of art to connect us all on a deeper level. It’s not just about entertainment; it’s about understanding and empathy.

The Future of Arts Coverage in Atlanta

archyde: “City Lights” will continue, albeit with new contributors.What are your hopes for the future of arts coverage in Atlanta?

Lois Reitzes: I’m thrilled that “City Lights” will continue. My hope is that it remains a platform for diverse voices, a place were artists from all disciplines can share their stories and connect with the community. I trust that the station’s commitment to our marvelous arts scene will only strengthen over time.

A Personal Reflection and a Thought-Provoking Question

Archyde: Looking back at your career, what are you most proud of, and what impact do you hope you’ve left on Atlanta’s arts scene?

Lois Reitzes: I am most grateful for the prospect to have served as a steward of the arts, connecting artists with audiences and hopefully, helping to bolster the seats at theatres, galleries, and concert halls. If ‘City Lights’ and WABE have helped to shine a light on the incredible talent in our city, then I am content. It’s been an incredible journey, and I’m excited to experience Atlanta’s vibrant arts scene from a new viewpoint.

Archyde: Thank you again, Lois, for your time and dedication. One final question for our readers: What performing art, gallery, or mural in the Atlanta area are you excited to seek out next?