This week on the podcast, we journey through the bold, inventive, and utterly captivating theatre that’s lighting up London and beyond. From revolutionary silence to scandalous sisters and chaotic coming-of-age, we explore three productions that are pushing boundaries, thrilling audiences, and reminding us why live theatre matters.

Deaf Republic

We’ll start with the Royal Court’s production of Deaf Republic, Dead Centre and Zoë McWhinney’s adaptation of Ilya Kaminsky’s poetry collection. It’s set in a fictional town where silence itself becomes an act of protest. With BSL, spoken word, creative captions, puppetry, and video all woven into the storytelling, it’s a production that challenges what theatre can be.

The Party Girls

Then we head over to the Marlowe Theatre in Canterbury with The Party Girls, Amy Rosenthal’s new play directed by Richard Beecham, which dives headfirst into the lives of the infamous Mitford sisters. It’s a family saga that mixes politics, glamour, and deep fractures, all brought to life with stunning design by Simon Kenny and lighting by Aideen Malone, plus some terrific performances from the ensemble.

The Chaos That Has Been and Will No Doubt Return

And finally, we’re at Southwark Playhouse in The Little for Sam Edmunds’s The Chaos That Has Been and Will No Doubt Return. This one’s a stomping 80 minutes of full-on theatrical energy - a coming-of-age comedy with a dark twist, performed by a cast of three who bring a whole community to life, including terrific multi-rolling from Leanne Henlon.

Plus, a nod to the Fringe Awards summer gathering - celebrating the incredible creativity, risk-taking, and sheer talent across the festival.

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This week Natalie and Darren review Eireann A Taste of Ireland and Till The Stars Come Down. Darren goes back stage with Sam Edmunds co-AD of Chalk Line Theatre company

Eireann: A Taste of Ireland

Journey through the sights, sounds, and flavours of Ireland in this vibrant, celebratory production. Darren delves into the music, storytelling, and energy that make this show a true feast for the senses.

Till The Stars Come Down

Set against the highs and lows of a chaotic wedding day, this sharply comic and deeply touching drama follows a family gathering where love, loyalty, and long-held secrets are tested. Darren shares his thoughts on the performances, humour, and heartfelt moments that make the show unforgettable.

Interview – Sam Edmunds, Co-AD of Chalk Line Theatre Company

Darren sits down with Sam Edmunds to discuss the company’s groundbreaking work, their approach to storytelling, and the inspiration behind their latest productions.

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This week we review two very different productions, each bringing their own magic to the stage.

Brigadoon – Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre

Return to the misty Scottish Highlands in this enchanting revival of Lerner & Loewe’s classic musical. Darren explores the sweeping romance, unforgettable songs, and Olivier Award-winning choreography and direction by Drew McOnie, as well as the immersive experience of Regent’s Park’s iconic open-air staging.

Club NVRLND – Edinburgh Fringe 2025

Step into the imaginative, high-energy world of Club NVRLND, a new work from the Edinburgh Fringe created by Jack Holden and Steven Kunis with choreography by Ashley Nottingham that fuses music, comedy, and spectacle. Darren shares his thoughts on the show’s creativity, performance, and standout moments.

Interview – Solomon Davy in The Code

Darren goes backstage to speak with rising star Solomon Davy about his role in the provocative new play The Code, exploring Hollywood’s unspoken rules, identity, and the pressures of the spotlight.

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This week we dive into two of London’s most exciting productions and speak with one of the country’s leading festival directors.

Saving Mozart – The Other Palace

Experience the UK premiere of Saving Mozart, starring Aimie Atkinson as Nannerl, alongside Jack Chambers, Erin Caldwell, Jordan Luke Gage, Douglas Hansell, and Gloria Onitiri. This inventive new musical reimagines the life and genius of Mozart, exploring his family, his music, and the drama behind the legend. Darren goes backstage to chat candidly with the cast, uncovering what it takes to bring these iconic figures to life on stage.

Grease Immersive Movie Musical – Evolution, Battersea Park

Step inside Rydell High like never before with Grease Immersive Movie Musical. Audiences are thrown into the heart of the action as the well-loved story unfolds up close, blending the energy of live performance with the nostalgia and excitement of the classic film. Expect high-octane dance, familiar songs, and a fully immersive experience that makes you feel part of the drama.

Exclusive Interview – Bradley Hemmings MBE

Darren sits down with Bradley Hemmings MBE, Artistic Director of the Greenwich and Docklands International Festival, to discuss the festival’s highlights, challenges, and what makes it one of the UK’s most influential celebrations of performance and creativity.

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This week we explore three incredible productions and bring you exclusive backstage insights from two major shows. From the heart-wrenching music of Girl from the North Country to the razor-sharp laughs of A Role to Die For, we cover the best of London’s stages. Plus, Darren chats with Jack Chambers, who stars as Mozart in Saving Mozart at The Other Palace.

Girl from the North Country

Step into Depression-era America, where a small Minnesota town’s inhabitants navigate love, loss, and hope against the backdrop of economic hardship. Girl from the North Country intertwines classic Bob Dylan songs with a story of longing and resilience, offering a deeply moving theatrical experience. Prepare to be swept away by the performances, the music, and the rich tapestry of lives on display in this Olivier Award-winning production.

A Role To Die For

In A Role to Die For, a razor-sharp comedy about Hollywood casting, Deborah wonderfully played by Tanya Franks, is about to reveal the next face of a legendary spy franchise. However, when a scandal threatens to unravel her perfect pick, she’s forced to make an impossible choice. Will she stick with the tradition or allow the next generation to redefine the global icon? This laugh-out-loud comedy about legacy, identity, and tradition versus progress will leave you shaken, stirred, and entertained.

Backstage Interview with Jack Chambers – Saving Mozart

Darren goes behind the scenes with Jack Chambers, who takes on the iconic role of Mozart in the UK premiere of Saving Mozart at The Other Palace. Jack shares insights into bringing this legendary composer to life, his preparation for the role, and what audiences can expect from this inventive production.

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In this episode we’re reviewing three exciting productions and bringing you an exclusive backstage interview from Echo at the King’s Head Theatre. From the electrifying Sing Street to the powerful Brixton Calling. Plus, Natalie goes backstage at Echo to chat with Amara Okereke and Kyle Rowe, who share their experiences bringing this compelling production to life.

Sing Street at the Lyric Theatre

Set in 1985 Dublin, Sing Street tells the story of 16-year-old Conor, who forms a band to impress a cool girl named Raphina, even though he has no band. With a score filled with new wave 80s hits, this coming-of-age musical celebrates young love, friendship, and the transformative power of music. Based on the beloved 2016 film by John Carney, the musical is brought to life by Tony Award winners Enda Walsh, Rebecca Taichman, and Sonya Tayeh. After sell-out runs in Boston and New York, Sing Street makes its UK debut, promising joy, nostalgia, and unforgettable music.

Brixton Calling

Brixton Calling takes you on an incredible journey through the birth of one of London’s most iconic music venues. Based on Simon Parkes’ memoir Live at the Brixton Academy, the play tells the true story of how a 23-year-old bought a derelict cinema for £1 in 1983 and turned it into the legendary Brixton Academy. With an electric live soundtrack of reggae, punk, rock, and rave, this production captures the spirit of the 80s and the revolutionary music culture that changed everything. Directed by Bronagh Lagan, Brixton Calling is a love letter to music, perseverance, and the power of a good venue.

Backstage Interview with Amara Okereke & Kyle Rowe – Echo at King’s Head Theatre

Natalie goes backstage at Echo to chat with the talented Amara Okereke and Kyle Rowe, the stars of this powerful new play. Echo explores themes of identity, love, and human connection, and we discuss their experiences bringing these complex characters to life on stage. Amara and Kyle share their thoughts on the play’s themes, their characters' journeys, and what it’s like to be part of such an exciting production.

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In this episode, we dive into three exciting and diverse theatrical productions captivating London audiences.

Echo

A psychological thriller set in a secluded B&B in upstate New York, where a couple’s romantic getaway takes a disturbing and surreal turn. Twenty years later, echoes of the past resurface, challenging the boundaries of intimacy, identity, and ethics in reproductive technology. "Downright compelling" - Scotsman.

The White Chip

Steven McAlister has everything under control - except his drinking. With a successful career, marriage, and theatre group seemingly balanced, his life spirals as addiction takes hold. Filled with humour, honesty, and compassion, this play explores the raw realities of addiction and the hope found in recovery.

101 Dalmatians

Cruella de Vil is back and fiercer than ever in this joyous stage adaptation at London's Eventim Apollo. Britain's Got Talent winner Sydnie Christmas stars as the iconic villain in a show filled with spectacular puppetry, energetic choreography, and lovable puppies, ensuring fun for the entire family.

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This week we’re diving into three incredible productions: the poignant Noughts & Crosses, the iconic Evita revival, and an exclusive backstage chat with the cast of Sing Street.

Noughts & Crosses at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre

Malorie Blackman’s best-selling novel Noughts & Crosses is revived for the stage in a brand-new production, bringing to life a bittersweet love story set against a divided world. Directed by Tinuke Craig, this powerful adaptation explores themes of racism, social division, and forbidden love, echoing the tragic romance of Romeo & Juliet. Callum and Sephy, childhood friends from different social backgrounds, must navigate a society that seeks to tear them apart. A must-see for fans of gripping, thought-provoking theatre.

Evita in the West End

Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s legendary Evita returns to the West End in a reimagined version directed by Jamie Lloyd. With an iconic score that includes Don’t Cry for Me Argentina and You Must Love Me, this powerful musical tells the story of Eva Perón’s rise from poverty to power in Argentina. Starring Rachel Zegler as Eva, this production captures the ambition, passion, and contradictions of a woman who captured the nation’s heart and divided it at the same time. An emotional, electrifying performance that breathes new life into this timeless musical.

Backstage Interview with Adam Hunter & Sheridan Townsley – Sing Street at Lyric Hammersmith

Darren goes backstage at the Lyric Hammersmith to meet Adam Hunter and Sheridan Townsley, who play brothers in the smash-hit musical Sing Street. They share insights into their roles, the chemistry behind their performances, and what it’s like bringing this vibrant, music-filled coming-of-age story to life on stage. With catchy tunes and heartfelt performances, Sing Street is a show you won’t want to miss.

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