Ken C. Peterson

In conversation with Monika Dziamka, co-editor of "The Roadrunner".

What does Route 66 signify for you?

Route 66 is iconic because it carries both nostalgia and momentum. Personally, I see it as a road built on stories of travelers, dreamers, artists and entire communities. Professionally, it’s a chance to help reimagine that legacy for a new generation. It’s the quintessential Americana experience, still unfolding, still inspiring, still moving forward. 

What is one of your favorite spots along Route 66 in Albuquerque?

That’s a tough one. I didn’t learn this until recently, but Albuquerque has the longest continuous urban stretch of Route 66, and it’s packed with incredible gems. But I’m especially partial to the historic KiMo Theatre in Downtown. It’s an absolutely stunning landmark with unparalleled character, and it also happens to be home to our Emmy-winning music series, Bands of Enchantment.

Describe a memory you have of Route 66.

When I was a kid, my mom and stepdad ran an independent tourism magazine in Las Cruces, so much of my childhood was spent exploring New Mexico and cruising down Route 66. Every summer, winter break, and long weekend, we’d pile into the Bronco — kids, dogs, bags, hiking boots — and set out to discover something new. Some of my fondest memories come from those trips. I’m pretty sure that’s where my love of adventure began and the sense that anything is possible.

Tell us about the “Bands of Enchantment” event and its connection to Route 66 in New Mexico.

“Bands of Enchantment” is Albuquerque’s Emmy-winning international music television series, broadcasting nationwide on PBS and streaming worldwide on Tubi, Prime Video, The Roku Channel and more. It’s truly a love letter from Albuquerque to the world.

In September 2025, we filmed Season 5 at the historic KiMo Theatre and launched our first-ever Bands of Enchantment International Music Festival right outside on Route 66. We welcomed artists from across the globe — including two-time Grammy winners and hip-hop legends Arrested Development, Black Pumas’ Adrian Quesada and two-time Latin Grammy winners La Vida Bohème — alongside some of New Mexico’s most extraordinary local bands.

Inside the KiMo, our tapings are unlike any other concert experience. We extend the stage, add couches and a Sinatra-style booth, and invite audience members to join performers onstage. It feels intimate, electric and entirely one-of-a-kind.

Outside on Route 66, our all-ages music festival transformed Downtown into a full-day celebration with a classic car show, art installations, local food and even a Route 66 VR experience. We filmed the final two episodes of the season on the festival stage using an eight-camera setup, including a techno crane, capturing the energy of thousands of attendees. Downtown businesses had record-breaking days, and Speech from Arrested Development said it best onstage: “This title is spot on. This truly is enchanting.”

We have such an amazing team, and none of this would be possible without the City of Albuquerque, Albuquerque City Council, Arts & Culture Department, Visit Albuquerque and New Mexico True. We’re honored to make Bands of Enchantment bigger and bolder each year. If you’re in town January 31, join us for the Season 5 Red Carpet Premiere at the KiMo Theatre. Doors open at 6 p.m. and screening begins at 7 p.m. — and it’s free and open to all ages.

What’s a birthday wish you have for Route 66?

That we all keep that spark of adventure going for another 100 years.