Arts & Entertainment
2ND ACT Series: Bob Sagendorf to speak at Palace Theater
With his characteristic optimism, Sagendorf continually embraced hope, choosing to turn his devastating experiences into a blessing.

Press release
2ND ACT SERIES: BOB SAGENDORF
WEDNESDAY, MAY 7, 2025, PALACE THEATER
Waterbury, CT –On Wednesday, May 7th at 7:00 p.m., Bob Sagendorf shares his journey from the height of his storied broadcasting career to a life-affirming 2nd Act. A seasoned broadcaster both locally (14-NVR in Naugatuck, CT) and in New York City (WCBS -FM radio), Sagendorf was a major part of the team that created and launched the ESPN Radio Sports Network. He was well known as a consummate professional both in front of and behind the microphone, with a commanding baritone voice. He remained in the broadcast world as both News and Sports Director for WATR radio in Waterbury until the unthinkable happened: Bob received a diagnosis of a rare benign brain tumor in a never-before-seen location. The remediation of that tumor, while successful, led to a loss of voice and 90 percent of hearing. Bob had to relearn how to speak, then went on to defeat stage 3 prostate cancer.
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With his characteristic optimism, Sagendorf continually embraced hope, choosing to turn his devastating experiences — not only his own medical problems, but also the neurodivergent diagnosis of his beloved granddaughter Maggie — into a blessing. Bob and his wife Jan committed to raising and training a Rough-Coat Collie, Mollie, to be a therapy dog for autistic children and children with cancer. Sagendorf’s story is a 2ND ACT that says a resounding yes to using one’s time along with newly discovered talents and resources to make a difference despite challenges!
Tickets are $20 and are offered on a first-come, first-served basis as seating is limited. Tickets and more information are available at palacetheaterct.org or 203-346-2000. This event is made possible through the support of Mary Ellen & Tim Rourke and The Village at East Farms.