In this episode, we'll explore friendships, true crime dramas, and mysterious intrigues. Join us as we uncover the heart-warming journey of Calendar Girls, the pulse-pounding tale of Machinal, and the captivating mystery of Harry Clarke. Plus, don't miss our exclusive backstage chat with Amy Lennox and Benjamin Walker as they share insights from Opening Night. Let's embark on this theatrical adventure!

Calendar Girls

Based on a true story and the hit 2003 film, Calendar Girls by Tim Firth follows Annie and her best friend Chris as they raise funds for the local hospital by creating a calendar featuring themselves and their friends from the Women’s Institute—in tastefully nude poses. This heart-warming and hilarious play celebrates friendship, community, and the power of ordinary people to make a difference.

Machinal

Helen Jones seemingly had a happy marriage until she murdered her husband. Based on the true crime story of Ruth Snyder in 1928, Machinal by Sophie Treadwell is a pulse-pounding journey of someone pushed to breaking point by the relentless machinery of life, expectation, and convention. Rosie Sheehy's outstanding performance in this Ustinov Studio, Theatre Royal Bath production is not to be missed.

Harry Clarke

The play follows Philip Brugglestein, a man with a secret identity as the seductive Londoner Harry. Billy Crudup delivers a captivating performance in this tale of a man's thrilling double life, directed by Leigh Silverman. With comparisons to The Talented Mr. Ripley and Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, this mysterious intrigue keeps audiences guessing.

Exclusive Backstage Chat

Join us for an exclusive conversation with Amy Lennox and Benjamin Walker as they share behind-the-scenes stories and insights into their careers, giving us a glimpse into the excitement of opening night.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to our latest episode, where we shine a spotlight on a diverse array of stage productions sure to captivate audiences! Join us as we explore Leslie Ash's starring role in Artificially Yours, Ian McKellen's portrayal of Falstaff in Player Kings, the punk reimagining of GISELLE: REMIX, an electrifying flamenco festival at Sadler's Wells, the hilarious antics of USHERS: The Front of House Musical, and a backstage chat with Karis Anderson from Tina: The Tina Turner Musical.

Artificially Yours

Leslie Ash stars in this gripping dark comedy that delves into the consequences of our society's increasing reliance on Artificial Intelligence. Three couples invite an AI relationship therapy device into their homes, hoping to solve their smallest disagreements and deepest issues. However, as the AI device becomes entangled in their lives, it leads to hilarious and disturbing outcomes, raising questions about the nature of human relationships and the role of technology in our lives.

Player Kings

Ian McKellen takes on the iconic role of Falstaff in Robert Icke's adaptation of Shakespeare's Henry IV. Set in a divided England on the brink of war, the play follows the journey of Hal, who must navigate his father's expectations, his friendship with the infamous Falstaff, and the looming conflict. Bringing together Shakespeare's two great history plays, Player Kings promises to be a theatrical event of the season, offering audiences a compelling exploration of power, loyalty, and leadership.

GISELLE: REMIX

Hot off its sell-out premiere at the Royal Opera House, GISELLE: REMIX returns with its punk reimagining of the classic ballet. Conceived by Pleasance Associate Artist Jack Sears and Royal Ballet Soloist Hannah Grennell, the production combines cabaret excellence, theatrical divinity, and jaw-dropping lip-syncs. Collaborating with dancers from The Royal Ballet, the show subverts the timeless story of love, loss, and redemption, offering audiences a fresh and electrifying take on a beloved classic.

Flamenco Festival at Sadler's Wells

Sadler's Wells presents a spectacular flamenco festival featuring a lineup of renowned artists, including Vicente Amigo, Eva Yerbabuena, and the Ballet Nacional de España. From traditional flamenco to innovative new sounds, the festival celebrates the rich cultural heritage of Spain through music, movement, and colour. Audiences can expect a mesmerising showcase of flamenco's raw energy and emotional depth, transporting them to the heart of Iberian culture.

USHERS: The Front of House Musical

Celebrating its tenth anniversary, "USHERS: The Front of House Musical" returns to the Other Palace with all the drama and laughter of working behind the scenes in a West End theatre. Set during a working shift at a theatre, the show follows the lives of the front of house staff as they navigate workplace romances, preview performances, and managerial pressures. With hilarious and moving stories, "USHERS" offers a backstage glimpse into the world of theatre.

Backstage Chat with Karis Anderson

Join Natalie backstage at "Tina: The Tina Turner Musical" for an exclusive interview with Karis Anderson, who stars as the legendary Tina Turner. Hear first-hand about the challenges and joys of bringing Tina's iconic story to life on stage, as well as insights into the preparation and performance process. Don't miss this behind-the-scenes conversation with one of the West End's brightest talents!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join us on a theatrical journey through a diverse array of productions, from classic Shakespearean comedies to contemporary musical adaptations. In this episode, we explore the revival of Marry Me a Little at Stage Door Theatre, the thought-provoking drama of Coming Clean at Turbine Theatre, and the enchanting rendition of A Midsummer Night's Dream by Flabberghast Theatre. Plus, experience the European premiere of Your Lie in April: The Musical in Concert, and don't miss our exclusive backstage chat with the cast of For Black Boys Who Have Considered Suicide When the Hue Gets Too Heavy.

Marry Me a Little

Get ready for a dazzling revival of a Stephen Sondheim revue as Marry Me a Little hits the Stage Door Theatre. This captivating production patches together 17 songs from nine Sondheim shows, offering audiences a delightful journey through the iconic composer's repertoire. Join us as we explore the magic and musical brilliance of this brand new West End venture.

Coming Clean

Step into the world of 1982 as Coming Clean takes stage at Turbine Theatre. This landmark drama by Kevin Elyot unravels the complexities of fidelity and love as Greg and Tony navigate the challenges of their open relationship. With razor-sharp wit and poignant insights, this production promises to provoke thought and spark conversation.

Flabberghast Theatre - A Midsummer Night's Dream

Prepare to be enchanted by The Faction's captivating rendition of A Midsummer Night's Dream. Set against the backdrop of a royal wedding, this multi award-winning ensemble brings Shakespeare's beloved comedy to life with energy, mayhem, and unforgettable visual moments. Join us as we delve into the magic of this timeless tale.

Your Lie in April: The Musical in Concert

Following the sold-out success of Death Note the Musical in Concert, get ready for the European premiere of Your Lie in April: The Musical in Concert. Inspired by the beloved manga series, this poignant musical adaptation tells the story of Kōsei Arima, a young piano prodigy, and his journey towards rediscovering his passion for music. Don't miss this heartfelt and visually stunning production.

Exclusive Backstage Chat - For Black Boys Who Have Considered Suicide When the Hue Gets Too Heavy

Join us for an exclusive backstage chat with Posi Morakinyo, Tobi King Bakare, and Mohammed Mansaray, cast members of the critically acclaimed For Black Boys Who Have Considered Suicide When the Hue Gets Too Heavy. Delve into the themes and insights of this powerful production as we gain a behind-the-scenes perspective from the talented actors themselves.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.