The Stage Podcast (iTunes edition)

Sindens in Theatreland: The Stage Podcast #87

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Thu, 05 May 2011 14:34:31 +0000

In the latest edition of The Stage Podcast, Sir Donald Sinden and his son, producer Marc Sinden, talk to The Stage’s Nick Smurthwaite about their new range of DVDs, exploring the West End’s theatres.

The DVD releases, which start next month, see Sir Donald take the viewer on a tour of each of the 40-odd London theatres covered by the Society of London Theatre.

In an illuminating interview, the pair talk about the project, the beauty of some of the venues’ interiors, and impart some of theatreland’s classic anecdotes.

For more details, visit The Stage website at http://thestage.co.uk/podcasts/

Rodgers and Hammerstein in London

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Thu, 28 Apr 2011 13:09:07 +0000

To mark the 50th anniversary of the original West End production of The Sound of Music, The Stage presents a very special look at the careers of Rodgers and Hammerstein as viewed from the newspaper’s extensive archives (available online at http://thestage.co.uk/archive/).

Using material researched from our digital archive - which goes back to our very first issue in 1880 - we look at the R&H shows that made it to the West End stage, how they fared at the hands of the critics and how Rodgers and Hammerstein changed the face of musical theatre.

Presented by Helena Blackman, who also performs extracts from some of the composing duo’s best known songs, the documentary also features opinion from theatre critic Mark Shenton, as well as an exclusive interview with Hammerstein protege Stephen Sondheim.

Birmingham Rep, from page to stage: The Stage Podcast #85

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Thu, 24 Mar 2011 13:09:19 +0000

Birmingham Rep’s Centenary Square base has been boarded up for the next two years while it undergoes a £25 million development. Artistic director Rachel Kavanaugh and executive director Stuart Rogers tell Michael Coveney what audiences can expect when the theatre reopens in 2013

Olivier Awards: The Stage Podcast #84

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Thu, 10 Mar 2011 18:51:37 +0000

In a special Olivier Awards preview, Mark Shenton talks to the people behind the awards, as well as some of the nominees.

Interviews:

Julian Bird, chief executive, SOLT
Josefina Gabrielle, nominated for Best Performance in a Supporting Role in a Musical for Sweet Charity
Howard Goodall, composer of Love Story, nominated for Best New Musical
Michael Xavier, nominated for Best Actor in a Musical for Love Story, and for Best Performance in a Supporting Role in a Musical for Into the Woods
Emma Williams, nominated for Best Actress in a Musical for Love Story
Nick Starr, chief executive, National Theatre
Nick Frankfort and Tobias Round, producers of The Little Dog Laughed, nominated for Best New Play
Nica Burns, president, SOLT

The new Jersey Boys: The Stage Podcast #83

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Wed, 09 Mar 2011 15:02:47 +0000

As long-running show Jersey Boys prepares for the biggest cast change since it started three years ago, new cast members Matthew Wycliffe (Bob Gaudio), Rachael Wooding (Mary Delgado) and Jon Lee (Frankie Valli, aternate) talk to Scott Matthewman about joining the show.

Sherrie Hewson: The Stage Podcast #82

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Thu, 03 Mar 2011 12:03:46 +0000

Sherrie Hewson has had a long career as an actress, since graduating from RADA in 1971 on stage, in television and in film, from The Slipper and the Rose to Coronation Street via Russ Abbot’s Madhouse.

This week, the Loose Women presenter releases her autobiography, Behind the Laughter, going into detail about her professional career and well as some of her personal difficulties. The Stage went down to her dressing room at ITV to talk to her.

Sherrie Hewson: Behind the Laughter is published by HarperCollins. For more details, see the podcast blog at http://thestage.co.uk/podcasts

Jim Davidson says Stand Up and Be Counted: The Stage Podcast #81

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Thu, 24 Feb 2011 10:22:35 +0000

In this week’s Stage Podcast, Tony Cooke talks to stand up comedians Jim Davidson and Matt Blaize about their new play, Stand Up and Be Counted.

Please be advised, this podcast does contain some extremely strong language.

For details of the play and to comment on this podcast, visit the podcast blog.

Oedipus and the Astronaut - Steven Berkoff and Simon Merrells: The Stage Podcast #80

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Wed, 16 Feb 2011 16:04:47 +0000

As they rehearse a new production of Oedipus, which opens at the Liverpool Playhouse this week, writer/director Steven Berkoff and leading actor Simon Merrells talk to Maria Hodson about working together again, Merrells having played Terry Malloy in Berkoff’s rendition of On the Waterfront at London’s Theatre Royal Haymarket.

Well, well, well, Leslie Jordan: The Stage Podcast #79

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Tue, 18 Jan 2011 11:38:30 +0000

Diminutive Tennessee-born actor and playwright Leslie Jordan is most easily recognised from his Emmy Award-winning recurring role as Beverley Leslie in US sitcom Will and Grace.

As he prepares to bring his one-man show “Leslie Jordan: My Trip Down the Pink Carpet” to the West End’s Apollo Theatre, Jordan talks to Scott Matthewman about working as an out gay actor in Hollywood, working with Golden Girls Betty White and Rue McLanahan, and why he turned down a guest spot on hit sitcom How I Met Your Mother.

Kelly Reilly: The Stage Podcast #78

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Thu, 23 Dec 2010 14:46:19 +0000

In the latest Stage Podcast, Scott Matthewman talks to Kelly Reilly, whose film, theatre and television career has varied from Sherlock Holmes to Desdemona.

As she prepares to return as DI Anna Travis in ITV1 drama Above Suspicion: Deadly Intent, she talks about the drama, her career and her future ambitions.

Above Suspicion: Deadly Intent starts on Monday, January 3, ITV1 at 9pm, continuing on Tuesday and concluding on Wednesday.

The RSC's new theatre: The Stage Podcast #77

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Wed, 24 Nov 2010 15:25:12 +0000

As the Royal Shakespeare Company opens its £113 million rebuild of the Royal Shakespeare and Swan theatres in Stratford-upon-Avon, The Stage’s Alistair Smith meets some of the people behind this extraordinary project.

Vikki Heywood, RSC executive director
Andy Hayles, managing director of theatre consultants Charcoalblue
Michael Boyd, RSC artistic director

For a pictorial tour of the new building, visit The Stage newsblog at http://thestage.co.uk/newsblog

Lydia Leonard - Being Jackie O: The Stage Podcast #76

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Tue, 12 Oct 2010 12:10:13 +0000

Martin Sherman’s new play ONASSIS opens tonight, October 12, at the Novello Theatre.

Scott Matthewman talks to Lydia Leonard, who plays Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis in the play about first nights that aren’t, playing one of the 20th century’s most iconic women, reading an audience, and the virtues of mixing acting in film, theatre, TV and radio.

Sylvia Young Theatre School: The Stage Podcast #75

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Wed, 06 Oct 2010 12:52:20 +0000

This term, the doors opened on Sylvia Young Theatre School’s new premises. The 5-floor building, a converted church, has enabled a doubling of the intake in each year with further expansions planned in the future.

Susan Elkin, The Stage’s education and training editor, talks to principal Sylvia Young, artistic director Steven Baker and pupils Ceallach Spellman (Waterloo Road) and Grace Vance (Ashes to Ashes, School of Comedy) about the new building and what it means to the school and its occupants.

Him and Her: The Stage Podcast #74

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Wed, 22 Sep 2010 12:06:02 +0000

Russell Tovey and Sarah Solemani talk to Scott Matthewman about their new BBC3 sitcom Him and Her.

Sam Heughan in First Light: The Stage Podcast #73

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Tue, 14 Sep 2010 10:48:00 +0000

Showing as part of the BBC’s Battle of Britain season, one-off drama First Light tells the true story of Geoffrey Wellum, the Spitfire pilot who was just 18 when he joined 92 Squadron.

Scott Matthewman talks to Sam Heughan, who plays Geoffrey in the film.

School of Comedy: The Stage Podcast #72

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Wed, 25 Aug 2010 17:44:03 +0000

As the kids behind E4 sketch show School of Comedy prepare to return to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, Scott Matthewman interrupts their rehearsal period to talk to cast members Will Poulter, Lily Ainsworth and Ella Ainsworth about their involvement in the show, and the School’s creator, drama teacher Laura Lawson.

Cruising: The Stage Podcast #71

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Fri, 13 Aug 2010 15:14:27 +0000

The idea of a cruise ship entertainer has entered the common parlance as a form of put-down, not least from the mouth of Simon Cowell when he wants to put down the latest X Factor or Britain’s Got Talent auditionee.

These days, though, cruise ship entertainment is a multi million pound operation. Alistair Smith visited one of Celebrity Cruises’ new Solstice Class ships, each of which features a 1,150 seat theatre and three full scale theatrical productions.

Interviewed in this podcast:

Eric Bohus, director of entertainment
Nick Weir, cruise director
Lindsay Hamilton, performer
Edward Blanch, performer

You can find out more about cruising in this week’s issue of The Stage.

Can critics and artists ever be friends? The Stage Podcast #70

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Thu, 05 Aug 2010 15:10:56 +0000

After a short break, we have another podcast on the subject of theatre criticism, in many ways a sequel of sorts to our last Adam Street podcast.

The Stage went to a recent breakfast meeting of Musical Theatre Matters, where the panel discussion was on the subject of whether theatre critics can ever be friends with artists and producers.

One the panel where

John Plews, artistic director at London fringe venue Upstairs at the Gatehouse
Fiona Mountford, theatre critic of the Evening Standard
David Babani, artistic director of the Menier Chocolate Factory
Mark Shenton, theatre critic for The Stage and The Sunday Express, and a regular blogger on the Stage website
Richard Beadle, musical director and composer and
Kevin Wilson, a publicist with Clout Communications

The discussion was chaired by Katherine Ives.

For more on Musical Theatre Matters, go to www.musicaltheatrematters.org.uk

The Stage @ Adam Street: The state of theatre criticism

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Thu, 08 Jul 2010 11:51:52 +0000

In the fourth of our occasional series of round table discussions, we look at the state of theatre criticism in the 21st century.

Joining The Stage’s news and opinion editor Alistair Smith are Adam Kenwright, managing director of Adam Kenwright Associates, Matthew Byam Shaw, producer for Playful Productions, Mark Shenton, theatre critic for The Stage and Sunday Express, Matt Trueman, freelance theatre critic and blogger and Ryan Petersen, director of The Cornershop PR.

Topics discussed include:

Does the theatre industry still need critics?
How has the internet affected theatre criticism?
Are critics factored into marketing campaigns?
What impact do theatre critics have on ticket sales?
How important are theatre blogs?
How do we prevent blogs from being merely propaganda tools?

For links to our previous podcast in The Stage @ Adam Street series, see our podcast blog at http://thestage.co.uk/podcasts

Russell Labey and Wolfboy: The Stage Podcast #68

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Tue, 06 Jul 2010 13:56:00 +0000

This week, a new musical, Wolfboy, opens at the Trafalgar Studios after a successful run at the 2009 Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

Adapated from a 1984 play by Canadian playwright Brad Fraser, the show metaures music and lyrics by Leon Parris and a book by Russell Labey, who also directs.

Russell is no stranger to adaptations, having previously briught William Sutcliffe’s novel New Boy to the stage, as well as a musical version of Whistle Down the Wind that predates Andrew Lloyd Webber’s version.

Paul Vale met up with Russell during rehearsals for Wolfboy.

Olivia Colman: The Stage Podcast #67

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Wed, 30 Jun 2010 15:39:56 +0000

Actress Olivia Colman (That Mitchell and Webb Look, Peep Show, Beautiful People) talks to Scott Matthewman about her new role in BBC2 sitcom Rev., working (and ceasing to work) with Mitchell and Webb, her forthcoming lead role in Paddy Considine’s new feature film, Tyrannosaur, and returning to the stage after nine years in 2009’s England People Very Nice at the Olivier.

Richard Fleeshman: The Stage Podcast #66

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Thu, 17 Jun 2010 15:33:02 +0000

As he starts his West End debut role in Legally Blonde, former Coronation Street actor Richard Fleeshman talks to Nick Smurthwaite

Claire Foy: The Stage Podcast #65

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Wed, 26 May 2010 11:23:55 +0000

Actress Claire Foy, who you may have seen in BBC1’s adaptation of Charles Dickens’ Little Dorrit, has two new dramas coming to the screen this week.

In Pulse, one of three new drama pilots for BBC3, she plays student doctor Hannah, who discovers that the training hospital she has returned to after a breakdown is conducting secret, dangerous experiments.

On Sky 1, she plays Adora Belle Dearheart in a lavish new adaptation of Terry Pratchett’s Discworld novel Going Postal.

For more details and links, go to http://thestage.co.uk/podcasts

Robert Powell: The Stage Podcast #64

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Thu, 20 May 2010 14:27:57 +0000

Five years after joining the cast of Holby City, Robert Powell (who plays newly promoted Mark Williams in the drama) talks to Scott Matthewman about the hectic work days, why Holby is a drama and not a soap, the vital importance of the BBC licence fee, learning his craft under the gaze of the late Peter Cheeseman, and what it’s like having characters you have portrayed (including Jesus of Nazareth and Richard Hannay) played by other actors.

Recorded in a sunny beer garden on the edge of Hampstead Heath, we unfortunately encountered a high level of background noise. While most has been filtered out, it’s not been possible to remove it all. Our apologies.

Arthur Darvill: The Stage Podcast #63

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Fri, 07 May 2010 15:52:21 +0000

Arthur Darvill is an actor, musician and composer whose West End credits include performing in 2007’s Swimming With Sharks and composing the songs for both The Frontline at Shakespeare’s Globe and the musical Been So Long at the Young Vic.

He was most recently seen in the first episode of the new series of Doctor Who, playing Rory, new companion Amy Pond’s boyfriend. And as of this week, Rory is back…

Debbie Reynolds: The Stage Podcast #62

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Thu, 06 May 2010 14:16:25 +0000

In the first of this week’s two podcast episodes, Paul Vale talks to Hollywood legend Debbie Reynolds.

Best known for her role as Kathy Selden in Singin’ In The Rain, her film career was as part of the MGM studio system. When the film studio sold off many costumes, she started her collection of movie memorabilia, including Dorothy’s dress and ruby slippers from the movie The Wizard of Oz.

Her one-woman show Debbie Reynolds: Alive and Fabulous, continues until this Sunday, May 9.

Jonathan Harvey: The Stage Podcast #61

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Wed, 21 Apr 2010 10:45:27 +0000

A a young playwright, Jonathan Harvey’s works including Beautiful Thing, Rupert Street Lonely Hearts Club and Boom Bang a Bang established him as one othe foremost voices in gay theatre.

His more recent work has been in television, with sitcoms Gimme Gimme Gimme and Beautiful People sitting alongside work on ITV performing arts drama Britannia High and as part of the scriptwriting team on Coronation Street.

Now he is about to return to the stage with his new, generation-spanning play Canary, which starts previews at the Liverpool Playhouse on April 24.

Warwick Davis: The Stage Podcast #60

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Wed, 14 Apr 2010 12:16:55 +0000

Born in 1970 with the rare genetic condition spondyloepiphyseal dysplasia congenita, Warwick Davis is, at 3’6”, what he describes as “ever so slightly below average height”.

His short stature has put him in the frame for several high profile character roles in big Hollywood films, making his debut as Wicket the Ewok in Return of the Jedi before roles in Willow, Leprechaun, the film version of Hitch-hiker’s Guide to the Galaxy, Ray and as Professor Flitwick in all eight of the Harry Potter films. On television, he played Reepicheep the Mouse and Glimfeather the Owl in the BBC’s Narnia adaptations and appeared as himself in the Ricky Gervais series Extras.

Off screen, he and his father-in-law Peter Burroughs run Willow Personal Management, which represents over a hundred small actors.

Now he’s written his autobiography, Size Matters Not, which is published on April 22 by Aurum Press. For links to buy a copy, visit our podcast blog at http://thestage.co.uk/podcasts

Michael Ball: The Stage Podcast #59

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Wed, 07 Apr 2010 12:15:28 +0000

As musical Hairspray starts its national tour, Michael Ball talks to Scott Matthewman about reprising his role as Edna Turnblad, and joining Stage Entertainment as a producer for the tour.

In a wide-ranging interview he also talks about the state of backstage facilities around the UK, his passion for Sondheim musical Sweeney Todd, the different challenges faced by male and female musical actors, and casting of theatre roles by television.

For details of the Hairspray UK tour, see the podcast blog at http://thestage.co.uk/podcasts

Over the Rainbow panellist John Partridge: The Stage Podcast #58

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 13:06:44 +0000

As the BBC gears up to start its fourth musical theatre talent show Over the Rainbow, The Stage’s broadcasting correspondent Matthew Hemley talks to panellist, EastEnders actor and West End star John Partridge.

The Stage will be following the series on its TV blog at thestage.co.uk/tvtoday.

James Earl Jones: The Stage Podcast #57

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 09:30:00 +0000

James Earl Jones has one of the most distinctive voices in Hollywood, lending his vocal talents to Darth Vader in the Star Wars movies as well as Mufasa in Disney’s The Lion King. He’s no stranger to the camera either, with a long, long list of movie credits to his name, my personal favourites being Field of Dreams and Sneakers.

But Jones is first and foremost a stage actor. His role as Big Daddy in the current West End run of Cat on a Hot Tin Roof has earned him an Olivier nomination. Ahead of this weekend’s awards ceremony, The Stage’s Nick Smurthwaite met him in his dressing room at the Novello Theatre.

Love Never Dies: The Stage Podcast #56

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 14:25:22 +0000

This week saw the opening of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s new musical Love Never Dies at the Adelphi theatre in London’s West End.

Scott Matthewman discusses the show with Stage reviewer Matthew Hemley, while news and opinion editor Alistair Smith looks at the critical reception from the national papers and further afield.

For links to all the reviews mentioned, go to http://blogs.thestage.co.uk/podcasts/2010/03/love-never-dies-the-stage-podcast-56/

The Gemma Factor: The Stage Podcast #55

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 17:34:07 +0000

Gemma Collinge wants to be a star - and BBC3 sitcom The Gemma Factor shows her going about it all wrong. Actress Anna Gilthorpe, who plays Gemma, talks to Scott Matthewman about her own experiences and how she does, or doesn’t, share Gemma’s own aspirations.

And although Gemma’s scrapes are the source of comedy, for The Stage’s agony uncle John Byrne it’s the humour of recognition, as events in the sitcom ring true to so many young performers’ lives. He shares his tips for how people can avoid falling into the clutches of the rogue agents and instead concentrate on success.

The Musical Theatre Academy: The Stage Podcast #54

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Wed, 03 Mar 2010 17:16:59 +0000

Susan Elkin, The Stage’s education and training editor, visits the Drill Hall in London, which is the home to new drama school the Musical Theatre Academy, which offers a two-year MT course.

She meets MTA principal Annemarie Lewis Thomas and three of the college’s first intake of students, and we end with a musical number from the students.

Miss Polly Rae and William Baker: The Stage Podcast #53

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 15:15:34 +0000

Burlesque performance has been undergoing something of a revival in London in recent years. At the forefront has been Miss Polly Rae, who this week returns to the Leicester Square Theatre with the All New Hurly Burly Show, directed by William Baker (Rent Remixed, Kylie Minogue).

We talk to Polly and William as they prepare the show.

Amanda Mealing: The Stage Podcast #52

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Wed, 10 Feb 2010 10:37:19 +0000

Holby City actress Amanda Mealing talks to Scott Matthewman about playing Connie, her life as a child star and her hopes of a return to the stage

Surviving as actors: The Stage Podcast #51

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Fri, 05 Feb 2010 08:50:52 +0000

What can actors do when they’re between acting jobs?

Surviving Actors was the conference intended to answer that question, with seminars, careers advice and exhibitors.

We talk to conference organiser Felicity Jackson and Phil Matthews, editor of Drama Student Magazine and sponsor of the event.

The Stage education and training editor Susan Elkin gives her impression of the event, and finally our regular agony uncle, John Byrne, gives his advice.

www.survivingactors.com
www.thedramastudent.co.uk
www.thestage.co.uk/education

The Stage 100: The Stage Podcast #50

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Wed, 30 Dec 2009 11:30:00 +0000

In this week’s podcast, Scott Matthewman and Alistair Smith discuss 2010’s Stage 100, the list of the hundred most influential figures in British theatre.

The full list is featured in the new issue of The Stage, and can also be found on our website at www.thestage.co.uk

The Stage Podcast returns in 2010

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Thu, 24 Dec 2009 19:00:00 +0000

The Stage Podcast will continue in the New Year - but in the meantime, all 49 episodes are still available on iTunes!

The role of the theatre critic: The Stage Podcast #49

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Wed, 16 Dec 2009 12:56:30 +0000

Drama critics Mark Shenton (The Stage, Sunday Express) and Charles Spencer (Daily Telegraph) talks about the nature of drama criticism, how the function of the reviewer is changing and other subjects in front of an audience of students at TheatreCraft 09.

For more details about TheatreCraft, go to http://www.masterclass.org.uk/theatrecraft/

Read Mark Shenton’s daily blog at http://thestage.co.uk/blogs/

Strictly Argentine Tango: The Stage Podcast #48

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Wed, 09 Dec 2009 13:36:13 +0000

Next week, the three couples competing in the Strictly Come Dancing semi-final will each perform an Argentine Tango in their quest to compete in the following week’s final.

Argentine Tango experts Kele Baker and Ralf Schiller teach the dance style to the celebrities and professional dancers who have reached this stage in the competition. They have also written a book, Strictly Come Dancing: Step-by-Step Dance Class, which illustrates each of the classic ballroom and Latin dances used in the series.

Legally Davison: The Stage Podcast #47

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 08:30:00 +0000

As Legally Blonde: The Musical opens in preview at London’s Savoy Theatre, Nick Smurthwaite talks to theatre and television actor Peter Davison, who plays Professor Callahan in the show.

Christmas in New York: The Stage Podcast #46

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 16:22:46 +0000

With Christmas just round the corner, theatreland’s annual celebratory concert, Christmas in New York, descends upon the Prince of Wales Theatre on Sunday, December 6.

This year, the Notes from New York team behind the concerts have also released a CD featuring performances by Julie Atherton, Daniel Boys, Leanne Jones, Hannah Waddingham, Louise Dearman, Ashleigh Gray, Paul Spicer, Oliver Tompsett, Samuel Barnett and Anna-Jane Casey.

Scott Matthewman met performers Julie Atherton and Paul Spicer - who is also producer and creative director of Christmas in New York - to talk about the CD and concert, as well as some of the other issues facing West End performers today.

Tickets for Christmas in New York are available from http://www.christmasinnewyork.co.uk

The CD is available from Dress Circle, or online by going to http://bit.ly/ChristmasCD

For more details, go to The Stage Podcast blog at http://thestage.co.uk/podcasts

Doctor Who - The Lost Stories: The Stage Podcast #45

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 11:33:57 +0000

While Doctor Who may currently be one of the BBC’s most popular dramas, that wasn’t always the case. In the mid to late 1980s it was always skirting with cancellation. When BBC1 controller Michael Grade needed to find the money in his drama budget to launch EastEnders, Doctor Who was one of the places where he made his cuts.

Though the series would return in 1986, the previous year’s season was cancelled, with several scripts either fully written or at the commissioning and/or planning stages.

Now, indie drama company Big Finish, which has been producing licensed Doctor Who audio dramas for over a decade, has adapted the episodes from the lost season into a series of audio dramas. The first, The NIghtmare Fair, is released later this month. Originally written by Graham Williams, it would have seen the Doctor (Colin Baker) and his companion Peri (Nicola Bryant) holidaying in Blackpool Pleasure Beach.

Scott Matthewman visited the West London recording studios to talk to Baker, Bryant and director John Ainsworth, who also adapted Williams’s teleplay for audio.

For related links, go to http://thestage.co.uk/podcasts

Stiles and Drewe: The Stage Podcast #44

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 09:30:00 +0000

From Just So to Honk! and the additional songs for the stage adaptation of Mary Poppins, George Stiles and Anthony Drewe have over the last 25 years established themselves at the forefront of new musical theatre writing.

Their recent version of Peter Pan the Musical, with book by the late Willis Hall, as produced by Birmingham Repertory Theatre and West Yorkshire Playhouse, has now been released on CD. They talk to Scott Matthewman about how the musical developed from its early days as a BBC radio concert, to the Royal Festival Hall and beyond.

Also under discussion come the recent changes made to the Broadway version of Mary Poppins (with the song Temper, Temper being replaced by Playing The Game), their new projects (adaptations of the movies A Private Function and Soapdish) and how events have overtaken the development of original musical Soho Cinders.

The podcast includes extracts from both the original cast recording of Peter Pan and the CD of 2008’s gala concert, A Spoonful of Stiles and Drewe. For links to buy either CD, go to http://thestage.co.uk/podcasts

Clare-Hope Ashitey: The Stage Podcast #43

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 17:00:00 +0000

Maria Hodson talks to actress Clare-Hope Ashitey.

After a series of well-received roles in films including Shooting Dogs and Children of Men, Ashitey now makes her stage debut in Bryony Lavery’s Origin of the Species at the Arcola, London, opposite Marjorie Yates.

She talks to Maria Hodson about the route she took to get to this point in her career, and the importance of theatre work for young actors.

For more information and to read The Stage’s review of Origin of the Species, go to thestage.co.uk/podcasts

Ray Brooks: The Stage Podcast #42

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 09:00:00 +0000

For five decades, Ray Brooks has been a recognisable face - and voice - of British television and film. From 1965’s “The Knack and How to Get It”, to “Cathy Come Home”, the big screen adaptation of “Doctor Who” opposite Peter Cushing. and, to generations of youngsters, the voice of “Mister Benn”. In 2005, he joined the cast of EastEnders as Joe Macer. He has now penned an autobiography, Learning My Lines.

He joins Mark Wright to discuss his long and varied career.

For more details about his book and to order a copy, go to the podcast blog at http://thestage.co.uk/podcasts

Richard Herring - As It Occurs To Him: The Stage Podcast #41

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 18:01:28 +0000

Comedian Richard Herring talks to Scott Matthewman about his latest venture - a live stand-up/sketch show which you can either pay to see recorded or wait and download for free as a podcast.

NB: PLEASE BE AWARE THAT THE RECORDED QUALITY OF THE PHONE INTERVIEW WITH RICHARD IS OF LOW QUALITY. OUR APOLOGIES

For links to the As It Occurs To Me podcast, to buy tickets for the remaining live shows and for more information go to the podcast blog at http://thestage.co.uk/podcasts

Comedians: The Stage Podcast #40

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 09:30:00 +0000

As the Lyric Hammersmith revives Trevor Griffiths’ 1975 play Comedians, director Sean Holmes and actor Reece Shearsmith talk to Nick Smurthwaite about the play, why the time is right to revive it, and the differences between comic acting and stand-up comedy.

For more details and a behind-the-scenes video of rehearsals, go to http://thestage.co.uk/podcasts

David Boreanaz: The Stage Podcast #39

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 12:28:35 +0000

As the autumn television season starts in earnest, Scott Matthewman meets David Boreanaz, star of Sky1’s hit detective drama Bones and formerly Angel in Buffy: The Vampire Slayer.

Scott Alan: The Stage Podcast #38

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 12:32:19 +0000

Emerging New York-based composer Scott Alan is becoming known in the musical theatre community for his intensely emotional and personal songs. As he prepares to come to the UK for two concerts showcasing music from his two albums, Dreaming Wide Awake and Keys, he talks to Scott Matthewman about becoming inspired to write, his Monday Nights, New Voices showcase project, and writing from the heart.

Just Me… and Them: The Music of Scott Alan, produced by Simon Greiff for SimG Productions in association with Scott Alan is at the Leicester Square theatre, October 11, at 5pm and 8pm.

For more information including booking information and purchasing of Scott Alan’s albums, go to the podcast blog at http://blogs.thestage.co.uk/podcasts

John Barrowman: The Stage Podcast #37

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 12:04:20 +0000

Last seen zapping himself up into space at the end of Torchwood: Children of Earth, John Barrowman has rematerialised in the West End as Albin/Zaza in La Cage aux Folles at the Playhouse Theatre. He talks to The Stage’s Alistair Smith about high heels, reality casting shows, his future career options and a green car called Elphaba.

Contains some strong language.

Chlöe Hart: The Stage Podcast #36

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 10:50:06 +0000

For the second of our musical theatre-themed podcasts, Nick Smurthwaite talks to Chlöe Hart, who took over the role of Tracy Turnblad in Hairspray earlier this year.

To comment on this or any other podcast episode, go to http://thestage.co.uk/podcasts or email podcasts@thestage.co.uk

FORTHCOMING PODCASTS Next week: John Barrowman In two weeks: Scott Alan In three weeks: US TV star David Boreanaz

The Stage@Adam Street: The state of musical theatre

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 15:22:44 +0000

In the third of our Adam Street discussions, we look at the state of musical theatre in the UK, with composer Michael Bruce, performer/producer Paul Spicer, producer Neil Marcus, Theatre Royal Stratford East’s artistic directory Kerry Michael and Arts Council England’s Nick Williams.

To hear previous podcasts in the series, go to http://thestage.co.uk/podcasts

Edinburgh cover stars: The Stage Podcast #34

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Wed, 05 Aug 2009 12:00:55 +0000

Tying in with The Stage’s special Edinburgh edition, we talk to our cover stars: eleven young people who are taking their shows to Edinburgh.

Charlie Cameron, acting in Murder Mystery Musical
Harry Arkwright, playing Charles Darwin in Pentabus Theatre’s Origins
Inua Ellams, performing The 14th Tale
Nancy Wallinger, part of improv troupe Lights, Camera, Improvise!
Harry Lobek, acting in an adaptation of Chekhov’s short story Ward No. 6
Chris Harrison, author of absurdist comedy Last Night Things Happened…
Adam Buchanan, performer in the News Revue topical sketch series
Nora Wardell, director of Ritter, Dene, Voss
Claire Dargo, acting in the two-hander Crush, by Paul Charlton
Laura Corcoran & Matthew Jones, aka cabaret duo Frisky and Mannish

Daily during the Fringe, The Stage and the Podcast Network will bring you the Edinburgh Fringe Podcast. Go to thestage.co.uk/podcasts or edinburghfringe.thepodcastnetwork.com for more information.

Omid Djalili: The Stage Podcast #33

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 16:17:26 +0000

Nick Smurthwaite talks to Omid Djalili, who takes over as Fagin in Oliver! at the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane from July 20.

Matthew James Thomas: The Stage Podcast #32

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 13:55:36 +0000

Matthew James Thomas is currently playing Dorian Gray in the stage adaptation of Oscar Wilde’s novel at the Leicester Square Theatre. He talks to Scott Matthewman about the play, as well as his previous role as Jex in ITV1’s ill-fated performing arts school drama, Britannia High.

For details about Dorian Gray, visit the podcast blog at http://blogs.thestage.co.uk/podcasts

Everybody Loves a Winner - Sally Lindsay & Neil Bartlett: The Stage Podcast #31

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 16:02:27 +0000

Sally Lindsay and Neil Bartlett, respectively the star and writer/director of the Manchester Royal Exchange’s Everybody Loves a Winner (July 3-18) talk to The Stage’s Nick Smurthwaite about converting the Exchange into a working bingo hall for the production, which follows twenty players on their night out.

For more information and a video clip, visit http://thestage.co.uk/podcasts

The Stage @ Adam Street: The State of Regional Theatre

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Thu, 04 Jun 2009 16:22:47 +0000

In the second of our The Stage@Adam Street podcasts, we brought together some of the biggest names in British regional theatre:

Derek Nicholls, president of the Theatrical Management Association and chief executive of the Churchill Theatre in Bromley
Julius Green, producer for Bill Kenwright Limited
John Stalker, chief executive of Festival City Theatres Trust in Edinburgh
Rachel Tackley, director of English Touring Theatre
Sarah Holmes, chief executive of the New Wolsey theatre, Ipswich, and
Vikki Heywood, executive director of the Royal Shakespeare Company

Under the umbrella theme of The State of Regional Theatre, they discuss topics including how the recession is affecting them, the effectiveness (or otherwise) of the Arts Council England ticket scheme for under 26s, whether you need big name stars to sell a show in the regions, whether the traditional theatre brochure is dead and how important London is to regional theatre around the UK.

If you have any opinion or comments on the topics raised — or on any other aspect of regional theatre — please leave them on the podcast blog at http://blogs.thestage.co.uk/podcasts or email them to podcasts@thestage.co.uk. Submissions may be published in a future print edition of The Stage.

Daniel Dae Kim: The Stage Podcast #29

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Mon, 18 May 2009 18:21:00 +0000

Best known to TV audiences around the world as Jin-Soo Kwon in US TV show Lost, Daniel Dae Kim takes to the stage at the Royal Albert Hall next month to play the King of Siam in The King And I opposite Maria Friedman’s Anna Leonowens.

As he prepared to start rehearsals, Daniel sat down with The Stage’s Nick Smurthwaite to talk about Rodgers and Hammerstein, colour-blind casting and the relationship he has with his Korean heritage.

For more details and booking information, visit The Stage Podcast blog at http://blogs.thestage.co.uk/podcasts/

Spotlight On... Arlene Phillips (2/2)

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Fri, 15 May 2009 16:12:16 +0000

Legendary choreographer Arlene Phillips talks to Mark Shenton about how she became interested in dance and choreography, forming controversial dance troupe Hot Gossip, and moving into full-scale musical theatre choreography.

In this final part of the discussion, Arlene continues talking about Strictly Come Dancing as well as taking questions from the floor and covering topics such as her favourite directors and choreographers and the challenges of choreographing actors who can’t dance and turning Cliff Richard into a rock star for Time.

David Hare: The Stage Podcast #27

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Thu, 14 May 2009 14:48:19 +0000

Playwright David Hare talks to Mark Shenton about the Yale Drama Series Prize, which he judged this year and will again in 2010, writing for film, and why he’s not in favour of the US style of dramaturgy.

Spotlight On... Arlene Phillips (1/2)

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Fri, 08 May 2009 17:35:00 +0000

She also discusses moving into directing with Saturday Night Fever, as well as discussing her appointment as a judge on Strictly Come Dancing.

The second part of this conversation will be broadcast next week.

Arthur Smith is Daphne Fairfax: The Stage Podcast #25

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Wed, 06 May 2009 16:56:48 +0000

Stage columnist Arthur Smith talks to Nick Smurthwaite abut his autobiography, My Name is Daphne Fairfax.

Francesca Annis: The Stage Podcast #24

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Fri, 01 May 2009 18:33:47 +0000

Actress Francesca Annis talks to Al Senter about Time and the Conways, Lilly and Cleopatra.

Hugh Whitemore: The Stage Podcast #23

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Mon, 27 Apr 2009 17:47:39 +0000

Playwright Hugh Whitemore, author of Breaking the Code, A Matter of Resignation and Pack of Lies, talks to The Stage’s Nick Smurthwaite about working with the late Simon Gray, and adapting his memoir The Smoking Diaries into The Last Cigarette, which is playing now at the Trafalgar Studios, London.

Spotlight On... Sandy Wilson

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Wed, 22 Apr 2009 14:52:52 +0000

In a live event at the Shaw Theatre, Mark Shenton talks to musical theatre composer Sandy Wilson, best known for The Boy Friend.

Unfortunately, due to circumstances beyond our control the sound quality from this event is not as good as we would have liked. Our apologies.

Sam Wanamaker Festival 2009: The Stage Podcast #21

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 17:21:15 +0000

This week, The Stage podcast comes from the Sam Wanamaker Festival 2009 at Shakespeare’s Globe on London’s South Bank, which took place last Sunday and saw 23 duologues written by Shakespeare and his contemporaries performed by drama students on the Globe’s stage.

On the afternoon of the event, Anna Lowman talks to Globe Education’s Deborah Callan, Peter Barlow (chair, Conference of Drama Schools) and Giles Block, the Globe’s Head of Text about the festival and its place in helping young actors work with texts by Shakespeare and his contemporaries.

She also meets two of the students taking part, Alice White and Thomasin Rand from the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama, who also treat us to a rehearsal performance of the scene they later performed on stage as part of the festival.

Jet Set Go: The Stage Podcast #20

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 16:41:00 +0000

In this week’s podcast, Scott Matthewman talks to the creative team behind Jet Set Go!, the comedy musical which starts at the Jermyn Street Theatre next week after a successful run at last year’s Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

A review of the musical will appear on The Stage website on Friday 3 April, at http://www.thestage.co.uk/reviews/

The Stage @ Adam Street: The State of the West End

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:42:24 +0000

In the first of our round table discussions from The Adam Street private members’ club, we discuss the current and future state of Theatreland.

Joining Alistair Smith, The Stage’s News Editor, are:

Nica Burns, Nimax Theatres
Caro Newling, Neal Street Productions
Andre Ptaszynski, Really Useful Group
Richard Pulford, Society of London Theatre
Malcolm Sinclair, Equity
and Mark Shenton, theatre critic

To contribute to the discussion, go to our podcast blog at http://thestage.co.uk/podcasts or email us at podcasts@thestage.co.uk

For more about our hosts, Adam Street private members’ club, go to http://www.adamstreet.co.uk/

Phil Mealy and Craig Cash at BBC Showcase: The Stage Podcast #18

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Thu, 12 Mar 2009 18:23:52 +0000

At the third of our visits to BBC Showcase, Scott Matthewman talks to writers and actors Phil Mealy & Craig Cash, as well as BBC Worldwide executives Sarah Cooper, Chief Operating Officer, and Steve Macallister, Managing Director of Sales & Distribution

Young Victoria and Suranne Jones: The Stage Podcast #17

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 16:27:42 +0000

This week in the podcast Scott Matthewman talks to Jack Murphy, choreographer of new British film The Young Victoria. And, in our second of three visits to BBC Showcase 2009 in Brighton, Suranne Jones talks about her role in ITV1 drama Unforgiven.

For links to content discussed in this week’s podcast, go to http://blogs.thestage.co.uk/podcasts

Richard Armitage, Robert Glenister and Who Killed Simon Peters?: The Stage Podcast #16

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 16:26:57 +0000

Scott Matthewman talks to Paul Hendy, author of novel Who Killed Simon Peters?, a comedy thriller set in the world of TV light entertainment, and chats to BBC stars Richard Armitage and Robert Glenister about Spooks, Robin Hood and Hustle.

For shownotes, including links to find out more about Paul Hendy’s books, go to the podcasts blog at http://blogs.thestage.co.uk/podcasts/

Saturday Night, 24: The Stage Podcast #15

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 15:52:04 +0000

In this week’s Stage Podcast, Scott Matthewman talks to the cast and crew of a revival of Stephen Sondheim’s rarely performed musical Saturday Night - Helena Blackman (Helen), Harry Waller (Ray) and musical director Tom Attwood.

And Jon Cassar, executive producer of hit US drama series 24, talks about how America’s changing political landscape and the writers’ strike both changed the shape of the show, and whether there will be a future for 24 after Jack Bauer.

Plus, find out how you can help The Stage find out more about representation of women in drama, and win tickets to the world premiere of new British film The Young Victoria.

To leave a comment about this week’s show, go to our blog at http://blogs.thestage.co.uk/podcasts/

Peter Purves and Sister Act's Patina Miller: The Stage Podcast #14

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Fri, 13 Feb 2009 17:49:49 +0000

This week, Scott Matthewman meets former Blue Peter presenter and Doctor Who companion Peter Purves, to talk about pantomime, children’s television and his new autobiography.

He also talks to Patina Miller, the actress who is to play the lead role of Deloris van Cartier in Sister Act: The Musical, which comes to the London Palladium in Summer 2009.

For links and YouTube clips, visit our podcast home page at http://blogs.thestage.co.uk/podcasts

Spotlight On... Ruthie Henshall (3/3): Audience questions

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Mon, 09 Feb 2009 12:26:10 +0000

In the final part of our three-part series, Ruthie Henshall answers questions from the audience at the recent Spotlight On… event.

Ruthie covers topics such as her vocal technique, whether she would ever share a role with an alternate, whether jukebox musicals mean the West End is dumbing down, the perils of recording musical theatre albums, what makes her blush on Dancing on Ice and her advice for people entering the industry.

If you want to be in the audience for future Spotlight On… events, book tickets from the Shaw Theare website at http://www.theshawtheatre.com

February 15: Michel Legrand
March 13: Sandy Wilson
March 25: Lesley Garrett

Spotlight On... Ruthie Henshall (2/3): From Crazy For You to Marguerite

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Fri, 06 Feb 2009 14:28:53 +0000

In the second episode of a three-part series, musical theatre actress Ruthie Henshall talks to The Stage’s Mark Shenton.

In this segment, Ruthie talks about roles in Crazy For You and She Loves Me, Oliver!, Chicago, Putting It Together, Peggy Sue Got Married and Marguerite. She also talks about the loss of her sister Noel, and how she used that memory in her Marguerite performance.

In the third and final segment of this conversation with Ruthie, she will be answering audience questions.

If you want to be in the audience for future Spotlight On… events, go to the Shaw Theare website at http://www.theshawtheatre.com

Spotlight On... Ruthie Henshall (1/3)

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Wed, 04 Feb 2009 16:35:09 +0000

In the first episode of a three-part series, musical theatre actress Ruthie Henshall talks to The Stage’s Mark Shenton.

As well as talking about her position as a judge on ITV show Dancing on Ice, she talks about her entry into the industry, her training and her early career.

In the second episode, she will talk about her more recent career developments, while the third will be devoted to audience questions.

The interview was recorded as part of the Spotlight On… series at The Shaw Theatre. Future interviews are scheduled with Michel Legrand, Sandy Wilson and Lesley Garrett. For more details and to book tickets, go to http://www.theshawtheatre.com/

Culture Secretary Andy Burnham - The Stage Podcast #10

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 11:27:00 +0000

The Stage’s News Editor, Alistair Smith, sat down with Culture Secretary Andy Burnham to discuss free theatre tickets for young people, the effects of the economic recession on arts subsidies, and the Government’s track record on the arts.

If you have any comments, you can leave them below, by email to podcast@thestage.co.uk, or on our page on Facebook.

This is an iTunes-enhanced version of The Stage podcast. It will also work in applications and digital players that support AAC files. If your player does not support these files, then you can use the standard feed at http://www.thestage.co.uk/podcasts/, which uses MP3 files.

I'd Do Anything: In their own words - The Stage podcast #9

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 10:43:48 +0000

As the finalists who made it on to the live shows of the BBC’s I’d Do Anything plan the next stage of their careers, Matthew Hemley talks to six of them about their experiences of Saturday night entertainment television and their plans for the future.

Alongside winner Jodie Prenger are interviews with Amy Booth-Steel, Tara Bethan, Francesca Jackson, Samantha Barks and Jessie Buckley.

I'd Do Anything - The Stage podcast #8

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Thu, 29 May 2008 16:12:42 +0000

As Andrew Lloyd Webber and his panel of judges ready themselves for Saturday’s final of I’d Do Anything, we talk to The Stage columnist Zoe Tyler, actress and former judging panel member, who has been reviewing the girls’ performances each week in our print edition.

And now that the three winning Olivers have been chosen, The Stage’s agony uncle John Byrne goes over the options for any young performers who have felt inspired to tread the boards themselves.

Useful links:

The Stage’s I’d Do Anything coverage on TV Today
BBC I’d Do Anything website
Zoe Tyler’s website
Zoe is currently touring in The Show Must Go On
Archive of Dear John columns from the pages of The Stage
The Stage Guide to Schools for Young Performers - download a PDF for £5.50, or order a print copy for £7.95 + p&p

Tosca/The Last Standing - The Stage Podcast #7

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Tue, 04 Mar 2008 18:21:01 +0000

To complement the Royal Albert Hall’s current production of “Tosca”, the venue’s education department worked with Enfield Young Offenders to create a new, modern day interpretation of the story.

The Stage went to rehearsals for a special reading of “The Last Standing” by a cast of professional actors, directed by Phil Daniels. Hear interviews with the project leaders, two of the young writers involved and some of the cast.

This podcast contains strong language.

If you have any comments, you can leave them below, by email to podcast@thestage.co.uk, or on our page on Facebook.

BBC Showcase, Mistresses and Timothy Spall - The Stage Podcast #6

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Tue, 26 Feb 2008 14:21:02 +0000

The Stage went down to Brighton to meet some of the people behind BBC Showcase, the annual screening event held by BBC Worldwide to promote the best of British television to international broadcasters.

We talk to BBC Worldwide’s Abigail Hughes about the event, and the importance of ‘talent’ (actors, directors, etc.) to the promotion of programmes.

One of the BBC’s highest profile new shows at the event is relationship drama Mistresses. In a fun round table interview with cast members Sarah Parish, Shelley Conn, Sharon Small, Adam Rayner, Max Brown and Patrick Baladi, we talk about the success of the show, and how actors’ workload involves an increasing amount of PR work.

Finally, Timothy Spall joins us to talk about his role as Fagin in Oliver Twist, one of the BBC’s other high profile shows here at Showcase.

If you have any comments, you can leave them below, by email to podcast@thestage.co.uk, or on our page on Facebook.

Connie Fisher - The Stage Podcast #5

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 17:50:56 +0000

For our first podcast of 2008, Nuala Calvi interviewed The Sound of Music’s Maria, Connie Fisher.

As well as talking about the audition process via TV show which has spawned so many imitators, Connie talks about life now that she’s the star of the London Palladium production, as well as her plans for the future when she leaves the nun’s habit behind.

Dance X and Eurovision Dance - The Stage Podcast #4

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Wed, 29 Aug 2007 14:29:45 +0000

It’s a TV light entertainment special this edition, as we catch up with one of the winning Dance X dancers, Marie McGonigle, and her mentor during the BBC1 talent show, Bruno Tonioli.

Bruno is also taking part as one of the commentators for next Saturday’s Eurovision Dance Contest. At the press launch for the event, we talked to hosts Graham Norton and Claudia Winkleman.

Grease is the Word - The Stage Podcast #3

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Mon, 11 Jun 2007 14:09:55 +0000

After Saturday’s final of Grease is the Word, The Stage’s Alistair Smith got the very first interviews with winners Danny Bayne and Susan McFadden, who are now to become the West End’s latest Danny and Sandy when Grease returns at the Piccadilly Theatre.

He also caught up with TV judge and the musical’s producer, David Ian, to talk about the winners and the series as a whole.

Doctor Who - The Stage Podcast #2

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Thu, 22 Mar 2007 13:10:41 +0000

The third series of the revived BBC series Doctor Who starts on March 31. Prior to the press launch last night, I spoke to executive producer Julie Gardner about the new series, how her recent promotion to Controller of Drama Commissioning at the BBC affects her role on the show, and much more.

Just a couple of days after the new series starts, last year’s Christmas special, The Runaway Bride starring Catherine Tate, is released on DVD. We have a review.

A commentary track (as mentioned in the podcast) is available from the BBC Doctor who website.

And finally, some extracts from the press Q&A session with David Tennant and Freema Agyeman from the press launch, along with interviews with some of the actors in attendance: EastEnders actor and Doctor Who fan Adam Woodyatt; Noel Clarke, who played Mickey Smith in Series 1 and 2; and Linda Clark, who plays the prosthetic-heavy character ‘Bloodtide’ in the second episode of the new series.

Be warned — if you’re the type of person who wants to avoid any foreknowledge of future episodes, some of the interviews in this podcast contain mild spoilers.

Lesley Garrett - The Stage Podcast #1

podcasts@thestage.co.uk (The Stage) — Thu, 22 Feb 2007 11:44:15 +0000

For the first of our Stage podcasts, I was lucky enough to join Lesley Garrett in her dressing room at the London Palladium for a chat about her new album, When I Fall In Love, and much more.

The new album, produced and orchestrated by Tolga Kashif, is a celebration of love “in all its forms”. Her first studio album for three years, it formed the basis for a discussion that talked about the challenges in choosing whether to sing operas in English or the composer’s original language, how she and Kashif arrived at the music choices and orchestrations, as well as musical TV talent shows, from Fame Academy and Soapstar Superstar to How Do You Solve A Problem Like Maria?, used to select Connie Fisher as Garrett’s costar in The Sound of Music.

Thanks to: Lesley Garrett, Adrian Read at Hyperlaunch, Clare Nash at UCJ, and the London Palladium