Theatre Audience Podcast
Natalie Maher & Darren Murphy 242 episodes Nov 11, 2026
The Theatre Audience Podcast explores the world of live performance through the eyes of its hosts, Natalie Maher and Darren Murphy, along with special guests. Each weekly episode covers the latest theatre shows, industry news, and interviews with people working in the theatre. It offers listeners a backstage perspective on the drama, laughter, and craft of the stage. The show is aimed at theatre fans who want to stay informed and engaged with the performing arts scene.
Episodes
In Conversation with writer Torben Betts
What really happened to Marilyn Monroe and Lee Harvey Oswald? And how far would you go to uncover the truth?This episode, we are joined by acclaimed British playwright Torben Betts, whose distinctive blend of dark humour, psychological tension and sharp social observation has made him one of the most compelling voices in contemporary British theatre.From Invincible and Muswell Hill to Murder in th
Kimberly Akimbo, Stories, The Master Builder & La Perle
This episode, we're taking you on quite the theatrical journey! From the Tony Award-winning musical Kimberly Akimbo to the extraordinary dancers of Stories at the Peacock Theatre, a contemporary revival of Henrik Ibsen's The Master Builder at the Arcola Theatre, and the breathtaking aquatic spectacle of La Perle in Dubai. Four very different productions, taking us from intimate human stori
Damien Warren-Smith: The Man Behind Garry Starr
In this episode, we sit down with award-winning actor, writer and producer Damien Warren-Smith, the creative force behind the brilliantly anarchic alter ego Garry Starr.From training at the legendary École Philippe Gaulier in Paris to becoming an international comedy sensation, Damien has carved out a unique place in contemporary theatre through his fearless physical comedy, absurdist humour and e
Rent & How to Keep Warm in Winter
This episode, we're exploring two productions that put human relationships centre stage: a bold new interpretation of Jonathan Larson's iconic musical Rent, and the contemporary drama How to Keep Warm in Winter.From the passion, rebellion and unforgettable music of Rent to the emotional complexities of navigating life's colder moments, both productions explore what it means to find lov
Ballet Black, The Gang of Three, Thelma & Louise & The Story
This episode, we're celebrating a remarkable variety of theatre, from Ballet Black's 25th anniversary at Sadler's Wells to political intrigue in The Gang of Three, a thrilling musical reinvention of Thelma & Louise at the Young Vic, and a gripping newsroom drama starring Letitia Wright at the National Theatre.Ballet Black at 25Founded by Cassa Pancho, the groundbreaking Ballet Blac
In Conversation with Tim Crouch
This episode, we're joined by the wonderfully inventive Tim Crouch - award-winning playwright, director, performer and one of British theatre's most original voices.From My Arm and The Author to I, Malvolio, An Oak Tree and Truth's a Dog Must to Kennel, Tim has spent his career questioning what theatre is, how stories are told and the extraordinary relationship between performer and au
The Afronauts, Golden Boy & Million Dollar Quartet
This episode, we're travelling from the Royal Court Theatre's exciting launch of The Afronauts to the bruising world of Golden Boy, before turning up the volume with Million Dollar Quartet.It's an episode packed with theatrical ambition, extraordinary performances, musical legends and stories about people determined to follow their dreams - whatever the cost.The Afronauts - Royal Court
From the Heart, Tartuffe (Remixed), Jerker & Hay Fever
This episode, we're covering four very different theatrical experiences, from an exclusive press-junket sneak peek at legendary lyricist Don Black's West End celebration From the Heart to a bold reimagining of Molière's Tartuffe, the provocative intimacy of Jerker, and Noël Coward's gloriously chaotic comedy Hay Fever.It's an episode packed with theatrical royalty, wicked humou
“I Am Not Nora”: Kirsten Shepherd
What if one of theatre’s most famous female characters was inspired by a real woman whose own voice was subsequently pushed into the margins?In this episode, we’re joined by Kirsten Shepherd, Professor of English and Theatre Studies at the University of Oxford and leading Ibsen scholar, to uncover the remarkable story of Laura Kieler - the writer and friend of Henrik Ibsen whose personal experienc
Deep-Heat Rivalry, The Mirror Crack’d, The Human Voice / The Seven Deadly Sins & Still Life
This episode, we’re covering four wildly different theatrical experiences: a double bill of opera at Charing Cross Theatre, Noël Coward served with afternoon tea at Theatre Royal Drury Lane, an Agatha Christie mystery at the Mill at Sonning, and the gloriously outrageous Deep-Heat Rivalry at The Other Palace.The Human Voice / The Seven Deadly SinsOne woman, two operas and two very different journe
In Conversation with Freddie Opoku-Addaie
In this episode, we sit down with Freddie Opoku-Addaie, Artistic Director & Co-CEO of Dance Umbrella, London’s annual international contemporary dance festival.Freddie takes us through his journey from performer and choreographer to artistic leadership, reflecting on the experiences that shaped his creative voice and what changes when an artist becomes the person making decisions abo
Crybabies, Jane Eyre & Man to Man
This episode, we’re tackling three wildly different theatrical experiences: the bonkers horror-comedy of Crybabies: The Scaring at Soho Theatre, the musical adaptation of Charlotte Brontë’s Jane Eyre at Southwark Playhouse, and Tilda Swinton’s remarkable return to the stage in Man to Man at the Royal Court Theatre.Crybabies: The ScaringGenuinely scary one mi
Alexander Campbell
The former Royal Ballet Principal joins us to talk about an extraordinary life in dance, leaving the stage behind and his vision for the future as Artistic Director of the Royal Academy of Dance.In this special In Conversation episode, Darren sits down with Alexander Campbell, Artistic Director of the Royal Academy of Dance, to explore a remarkable career that has taken him from a y
The Gilbert Twins: Under the Influence
In this episode, we’re joined by Carine and Frances Gilbert - The Gilbert Twins - identical twins, comedians, writers and content creators who have built an online audience of more than three million followers.After creating hundreds of viral comedy sketches, the twins are returning to their musical theatre roots with Under the Influence, their original musical comedy co-written wit
Jeeves Takes Charge & Who Killed Marilyn?
This episode, we travel from the wonderfully ridiculous world of P.G. Wodehouse to the glamour, tragedy and conspiracy surrounding Marilyn Monroe. We review Jeeves Takes Charge at Charing Cross Theatre and Who Killed Marilyn? at the Emerald Theatre: two productions exploring famous characters and cultural icons in very different ways.Jeeves Takes ChargeThe unmistakable world of
Edinburgh Fringe Round-Up
Our Edinburgh Fringe reviewer Franki Rameaux joins us for a special Theatre Audience Podcast round-up, bringing back her verdict on some of the shows that caught her attention at this year's festival.The Edinburgh Festival Fringe is where theatre gets to take risks. New writing meets experimental performance, musicals emerge from the most unexpected places, artists test bold ideas in tiny rooms an
Death Note: The Musical, Bury the Hatchet and CATS
This episode, we journey from the supernatural world of a Japanese manga phenomenon to one of America’s most notorious murder mysteries, before gathering under the Jellicle moon for a bold new production of a musical theatre classic.We review Death Note: The Musical at the Barbican, the true-crime musical Bury the Hatchet at Southwark Playhouse and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s CATS, reimagined for the ma
The Car Man & Hot Mess
This episode, we're reviewing two wildly different shows with one thing very much in common: relationships heading spectacularly off the rails. Natalie and Darren experience Matthew Bourne's seductive dance thriller The Car Man, while Hot Mess turns the entire relationship between Earth and Humanity into one brilliantly funny, pop-fuelled musical romcom.The Car ManMatthew Bourne's&n
Shear Madness & Sinatra: The Musical
This episode, we're talking audience participation, legendary music and two productions that couldn't be more different. Darren heads to the Mill at Sonning for the interactive comedy phenomenon Shear Madness, while Natalie and Darren take their seats for Sinatra: The Musical, a stylish new portrait of one of the twentieth century's greatest entertainers.Shear MadnessCan you solve a murder before
Archduke & Springwood
This episode, we're stepping back into the years before the Second World War with two gripping historical dramas. One revisits the assassination that ignited the First World War, while the other imagines a pivotal royal visit that helped shape the alliance between Britain and America. Packed with political intrigue, sharp humour and outstanding performances, these productions remind us that histor
Nassim Soleimanpour on Theatre Without Limits
One script. One actor. No rehearsal. Fifteen years on, White Rabbit Red Rabbit remains one of the most extraordinary theatrical experiences ever created.In this episode, we sit down with acclaimed Iranian playwright Nassim Soleimanpour, whose groundbreaking work has been performed more than 4,000 times in over 25 languages by thousands of actors across the globe.Written while Nassim
Disney's Hercules Review + Bradley Gibson Interview
This episode, we're heading to Mount Olympus as we review Disney's Hercules, now lighting up the West End.Has Disney finally found another stage musical to rival The Lion King? We discuss whether Hercules succeeds by reimagining the beloved 1997 animated classic, why Disney's live-action remakes continue to divide opinion, and what makes a great stage adaptation in the first pl
From West End Star to Redcliffe Creator: Jordan Luke Gage
In this episode, we're joined by Jordan Luke Gage to talk about one of our favourite new musicals of the year, Redcliffe.Known for his incredible work on stage, Jordan has now turned his hand to writing, composing and lyric-writing, creating a show that feels both deeply personal and remarkably assured. After seeing Redcliffe, we had to sit down and chat about the journey behind it.We di
Are You Watching?, Under the Shadow & The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind
In this episode, we explore three powerful productions that tackle some of the biggest questions facing society today. From the dangers of deepfake technology and online voyeurism to supernatural terror during wartime Iran and an inspiring true story of ingenuity in Malawi, these are shows that challenge, move and ultimately stay with you long after the curtain falls.Are You Watching?What happens
In Conversation with JJ Feild
This episode, Darren sits down with acclaimed stage and screen actor JJ Feild.Currently starring in the world premiere of Ben Ockrent's darkly comic family drama Relics at the Lyric Hammersmith, JJ discusses the appeal of the play, its exploration of family dynamics and the secrets we inherit.The conversation also takes a broader look at his remarkable career, from returning to the stage
Equus & War Horse
This episode, we're talking horses - but in two very different theatrical experiences. Natalie reviews Peter Shaffer's psychological masterpiece Equus at the Menier Chocolate Factory, while Darren heads to the National Theatre for the long-awaited homecoming of the global phenomenon War Horse.EquusWhat could drive a seemingly ordinary seventeen-year-old boy to commit an act of shocking violence ag
Joshua Poole on Monarchs Anonymous
This episode, Darren sits down with actor, writer and co-creator Joshua Poole to discuss Monarchs Anonymous, the riotous new historical farce arriving at The Other Palace.What began as a lockdown YouTube project has evolved into a full-scale stage production, bringing together some of history's most famous rulers for a chaotic group therapy session. Joshua talks about the origins of the show,
Hot Mess with Ellie Coote & Jack Godfrey
This episode, we're joined by writer-director Ellie Coote and composer-lyricist Jack Godfrey, the award-winning creative team behind the smash-hit new musical Hot Mess.Following acclaimed runs at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and Southwark Playhouse, Hot Mess returns this summer for an extended London season at The Other Palace. The high-energy original romcom reimagines the climate crisis as the
Oliver!, Derrière On A G String & The Lion King
This episode, we head from the streets of Victorian London to the African savannah, with a stop at the most delightfully absurd cabaret in town. We review Cameron Mackintosh's spectacular revival of Oliver!, Disney's enduring theatrical phenomenon The Lion King, and the wonderfully bonkers physical comedy of Derrière On A G String at the King's Head Theatre.Oliver!Cameron Macki
The Last Ship, Krapp's Last Tape, Totoro, Stage Kiss & Dracula
This episode, we celebrate the launch of Sting's return to the stage in The Last Ship, witness Sir Gary Oldman's extraordinary theatrical comeback in Krapp's Last Tape, revisit the magical world of My Neighbour Totoro, enjoy the romantic chaos of Stage Kiss, and experience Cynthia Erivo's astonishing one-woman performance in Dracula.The Last ShipWe attended the media launch for The Last Ship, the
The Mousetrap with Georgina Fairbanks
In this episode, we’re joined by rising stage and screen actor Georgina Fairbanks to discuss stepping into the legendary West End production of The Mousetrap at St Martin's Theatre. Georgina opens up about playing Mollie Ralston in the world’s longest-running play, balancing comedy and tension inside Agatha Christie’s iconic mystery, and why audiences still can’t resist tr
Fringe Theatre Awards, Oh, Mary!, Flush & One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest
In this episode, we head from the glittering celebrations of the Fringe Theatre Awards at the Clapham Grand to the outrageous comedy of Oh, Mary! starring Catherine Tate, the fast-paced female ensemble drama Flush, and a powerful new production of One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest directed by Clint Dyer. Expect dark comedy, emotional chaos, unforgettable performanc
Let the Right One In and a close up look at NYT
This episode, we’re diving into the haunting world of Let the Right One In at the Boulevard Theatre. Darren reviews Jack Thorne’s stage adaptation of the acclaimed Swedish vampire story, discussing how the National Youth Theatre tackled the play’s chilling atmosphere, emotional intensity and ambitious physical theatre within the intimate cabaret-style venue. Darren ta
JEEZUS!, A Midsummer Night’s Dream & FLYBY
This week, we dive into JEEZUS!, A Midsummer Night’s Dream at Shakespeare's Globe, and FLYBY at Southwark Playhouse Borough - three productions fuelled by desire, transformation, and emotional chaos. From queer rebellion in 1990s Peru, to Shakespearean lovers lost in a moonlit forest, to a fractured romance drifting through deep space, these shows explore identit
A Doll’s House and Between the River and the Sea
This episode, we dive into two bold, politically charged productions - A Doll’s House at the Almeida Theatre and Between the River and the Sea at the Royal Court - each interrogating relationships under pressure. From the fractures within a marriage to the complexities of identity across borders, these shows ask what happens when the systems we rely on - love, family, nation -
Love, Loss & Letting Go
This week, we explore three productions - Dear Jack, Dear Louise, Invisible Me and An Evening Without Kate Bush- each capturing connection in very different ways: through letters, through late-life reinvention, and through music that brings people together. Natalie talks about the up-coming season at the Young Vic with a sneak peep from Artistic Director Nadia Fall. From w
The Holy Rosenbergs, A Mirrored Monet & Jaja’s African Hair Braiding
This week, we explore three productions that each, in their own way, interrogate identity -through family, through art, and through community. From intimate domestic tensions to bold visual storytelling and vibrant, lived-in spaces, these shows remind us how deeply personal and political our stories can be.The Holy RosenbergsWritten by Ryan Craig and directed by Lindsay Posner, this gripping famil
The Offies, Paco Peña: Solera & John Proctor Is the Villain
In this episode, Darren and Natalie bring together Paco Peña: Solera, John Proctor Is the Villain, and a look at The Off West End Awards (Offies) - celebrating bold performance, urgent storytelling and the brilliance of Off-West End theatre.The Off West End Awards (The Offies)We take a moment to celebrate the Offies - the awards that champion the very best of Off-West End theat
Sarah-Louise Young on Cabaret, Chaos & An Evening Without Kate Bush
In this episode, we’re joined by Olivier Award-winning performer, writer and cabaret artist Sarah-Louise Young, as she brings her wildly successful cult hit An Evening Without Kate Bush to Underbelly Boulevard in London.This isn’t your typical tribute show. Kate Bush isn’t in it… and yet she’s everywhere. Blending iconic music, audience participation, and a deep love for fandom, the
Savage, You Matched With, Turn it Out with Tiler Peck & Friends and Teeth 'n' Smiles
This week Darren and Natalie take on four strikingly different productions. From dark historical drama – Savage, and modern dating satire You Matched With, to world-class dance Turn it Out with Tiler Peck and Friends and a raw, music-fuelled classic - Teeth 'n' Smiles.Savage – White Bear TheatreA chilling and provocative play rooted in real history, Savage explor
The Hunger Games & Romeo & Juliet
This week Darren and Natalie take on two epic stories reimagined for the stage - from dystopian spectacle with The Hunger Games: On Stage to one of Shakespearean’s most famous tragedy Romeo & Juliet.The Hunger Games: On StageCitizens of Panem, the arena has arrived in London. This bold new stage adaptation of Suzanne Collins’ global phenomenon transforms The Hunger Games into a live
Tessa Peake-Jones on Invisible Me
Best known to millions as Raquel in the iconic BBC sitcom Only Fools and Horses, Tessa Peake-Jones joins Darren to discuss her latest stage role in the heartfelt new comedy-drama Invisible Me, opening at Southwark Playhouse.Written by Bren Gosling and directed by Scott Le Crass, the play explores dating, loneliness and the search for connection later in life. Following th
Jesse Jones on Leading Royal & Derngate
Our guest this week is director and theatre-maker Jesse Jones, Artistic Director of Royal & Derngate, who joins Darren to talk about bold programming, new writing, and why theatre should never be afraid of dividing opinion.Jesse’s career spa
American Psycho, The Producers & The Opera Locos
This week Darren and Natalie take on three wildly different theatrical experiences - from razor-sharp satire with The Producers and dark musical thrills American Psycho to outrageous operatic comedy - The Opera Locos.The Opera Locos – Sadler’s WellsThe madcap Spanish company Yllana brings its international hit The Opera Locos to Sadler’s Wells, turning
Behind the Portrait: Keala Settle & Hal Fowler on Mrs. President
In this special backstage episode, Natalie sits down with Keala Settle and Hal Fowler, the stars of Mrs. President at the Charing Cross Theatre - a gripping reimagining of Mary Lincoln’s fight to reclaim her reputation after the assassination of Abraham Lincoln.Keala Settle delivers a powerhouse performance as a woman vilified by history, navigating grief, public scrutiny
Love, Laughter & Into the Woods
This week, Darren and Natalie bring you backstage moments, bold new musical theatre, immersive magic and political satire with a photo call for World’s Greatest Lover, Natalie took her school kids to see Into the woods and Darren attended the press night of I’m Sorry, Prime Minister.World’s Greatest Lover – Photo Call & Cast ChatsWe were at the photo call for the high-energ
Inside The Opera Locos with Yllana’s Joseph O’Curneen
In this week’s episode, Darren is joined by Joseph O’Curneen - founding member of internationally acclaimed Spanish theatre company Yllana - to talk about the glorious chaos that is The Opera Locos.Returning to London following standing ovations, The Opera Locos takes over Sadlers Well’s Theatre for a strictly limited run. This vibrant comic opera experience blends world-class singi
Memory, Music & The Weight of What We Carry
This week Darren and Natalie explore three powerful productions that examine legacy, longing and the stories we pass down - through history - Here there are Blueberries, through song - Ballad Lines, and through quiet acts of courage - The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry.Here There Are BlueberriesA haunting and urgent new play inspired by a real-life photo album discovered in an ar
Sixteen Postcodes. One Story. Backstage with Jessica Regan
This week we’re joined by comedian, writer and performer Jessica Regan, a regular voice on The Guilty Feminist Podcast, to talk about her bold and brilliantly personal one-woman show 16 Postcodes.Following sell-out, critically acclaimed runs at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and the Pleasance Theatre, 16 Postcodes makes its London premiere at King's Head Theatre. The s
Love, Legacy & What We Hold On To
This week Darren and Natalie cover a packed episode spanning major casting announcements, explosive physical theatre, and an intimate world premiere that cuts straight to the heart.We were at the Thomas Hopkins Productions press launch announcing three exciting productions:Maureen Lipman starring in AllegraWendi Peters leading GloriousAnd The Jonathan Larson Project, celeb
Courage, Legacy & the Stories We Tell Ourselves
This week Darren and Natalie explore three powerful productions that wrestle with truth, legacy and the cost of standing by your convictions - from the Wild West with High Noon to the White House with Mrs. President and the glittering wreckage of the Jazz Age with Beautiful Little Fool.High NoonA searing stage adaptation of the legendary Western that once served as an allegory for Hollywood’s blac
Courage, Parenthood, Childhood & Survival
This week Darren and Natalie take on a powerful and wide-ranging episode, exploring Safe Haven, Mother.Dad, A Grain of Sand, and The Olive Boy - four very different plays that confront survival, morality, parenthood and resilience, from global humanitarian crises to deeply personal stories of growing up and finding your way.Safe HavenSet in the aftermath of the First Gulf War, Safe Haven charts th
There’s Nothing Left to Prove: Inside Already Perfect
In this episode, Darren and Natalie dive into the UK premiere of Already Perfect, the new folk-rock musical now playing at King’s Head Theatre.Written by Tony Award-winner Levi Kreis, Already Perfect is an intimate, soul-infused piece that unfolds in a Broadway dressing room on the brink of collapse - where past and present collide in a raw, often funny reckoning with identity,
Woman in Mind. In Conversation with Rebecca Trehearn and Frances McNamee
In this episode, Darren and Natalie unpack the latest West End revival of Woman in Mind, Alan Ayckbourn’s 1985 psychological comedy now marking its 40th anniversary. Starring Sheridan Smith and directed by Michael Longhurst, the production revisits a story of fractured reality, imagination and domestic dissatisfaction - but does it still resonate today? Natalie and Da
A Ghost in Your Ear
In our first episode of 2026, Darren and Natalie dive into one of the most innovative and nerve-shredding productions currently on the London stage - A Ghost in Your Ear at Hampstead Theatre.Written and directed by Jamie Armitage (An Interrogation, SIX) and created in collaboration with acclaimed sound designers Ben and Max Ringham, this two-hander places the audience inside a haunt
Curtain Call: Our Theatre Highlights of 2025
In the final episode of Season 5, Darren and Natalie look back on an extraordinary year in theatre, sharing the productions that moved them, thrilled them, and stayed with them long after the curtain fell. From bold new writing and immersive experiences to reimagined classics and unforgettable performances, this episode is a love letter to the shows that defined 2025.They revisit standout moments
Backstage chat with Damon Gould
In this special stand-alone episode, Darren sits down with Damon Gould, currently starring as Noel in the cult musical Ride the Cyclone at Southwark Playhouse.Ride the Cyclone is a darkly comic, offbeat musical that has built a devoted global following. After six teenagers die in a freak roller-coaster accident, they find themselves in limbo, offered one final chance at li
Festive Spectacle & Feral History: The Red Shoes & Oh Mary!
This episode celebrates two completely different - but equally exhilarating - nights at the theatre. From sweeping, cinematic dance storytelling to full-throttle historical chaos, we explore why live performance continues to thrill, surprise, and transport. One is a five-star festive classic - The Red Shoes - that dazzles the senses; the other - Oh Mary! - is a riotously funny West End
Victoria Scone in Conversation: Drag, Dames & Panto Chaos
Today on the podcast, Darren is joined by trailblazing drag artist, actor and cabaret star Victoria Scone - a performer who made herstory on RuPaul’s Drag Race UK and went on to wow audiences internationally on Canada’s Drag Race: Canada vs the World. From redefining drag on screen to commanding stages across the UK, Victoria’s career is a joyful collision of theatre, come
Daniel’s Husband, Gawain & the Green Knight and Most Favoured
This week Darren and Natalie explore three strikingly different productions - each asking big questions about love, belief, bravery and connection - from intimate relationship drama to festive comedy and razor-sharp contemporary writing. Daniel’s Husband, Gawain and the Green Knight and Most Favoured with backstage chat with actor Alexander Arnold.Daniel’s Husband – Marylebone Theat
Christmas Show Special: Panto, Pop, Princes & Pure Festive Joy
It’s the most theatrical time of the year, and Theatre Audience Podcast is celebrating the festive season with a Christmas Show Special packed full of pantomime, parody and seasonal spectacle. Darren and Natalie discuss their views on; Beauty and the Beast at Churchill Theatre, Ebony Scrooge at Sadler’s Wells East, The Fit Prince and Jack and the Beanstalk - both at&n
John Patrick Elliot
In this exclusive backstage-with session, Darren sits down with award-winning composer, producer, and performer John Patrick Elliott. Originally from West Yorkshire, John has done everything from touring across Europe with his project The Little Unsaid to creating live electronic scores for major theatre productions. He won “Best Composer” at the Stage Debut Awards 2022 for his work on Cruise - an
Porn Play, The Mousetrap & The Grim
This week Darren and Natalie explore three thrilling productions shaking up London’s stages - from the dark corners of digital desire with Porn Play, to an eternal whodunnit – The Mousetrap and a macabre new comedy with a supernatural twist – The Grim.Porn PlayA sell-out world premiere that’s as provocative as it is powerful. Ambika Mod (One Day, This Is Go
The Line of Beauty & All My Sons
This week Darren and Natalie explore two masterful productions that examine ambition, morality, and the price of desire - from the glittering privilege of 1980s Britain to the guilt and grief of post-war America.The Line of BeautyStep into Thatcher’s Britain through the eyes of Nick Guest, a young man seduced by a world of wealth, politics and sensuality. Moving into the lavish Notting Hill home o
MJ The Musical & Mary Page Marlowe
This week Darren and Natalie dive into two powerhouse productions lighting up the West End - the electrifying MJ The Musical and Mary Page Marlowe, starring screen legends Susan Sarandon and Andrea Riseborough.MJ The MusicalThe smash-hit Broadway production moonwalks into the West End! With a book by Lynn Nottageand direction/choreography by Christopher Whee
The Unbelievers, The Choir of Man & The Wanderers
This week Darren and Natalie explore three very different but equally profound productions - The Unbelievers at the Royal Court, The Choir of Man in the West End, and The Wanderers at the Marylebone Theatre.The UnbelieversThe Unbelievers - the highly anticipated new play from acclaimed writer Nick Payne (Constellations, We Live in Time) - now playi
Crocodile Fever, Punch & The Assembled Parties
This week Darren and Natalie dive into three wildly different yet equally compelling productions currently electrifying London’s stages - Crocodile Fever at the Arcola Theatre, Punch in the West End, and The Assembled Parties at Hampstead Theatre.Crocodile Fever First up, it’s mayhem in 1970s Northern Ireland in Meghan Tyler’s Crocodile Fever 
MUSIK, Importance of Being Earnest & Entertaining Mister Sloane
This week Darren and Natalie explore three standout productions lighting up London’s stages - Entertaining Mr Sloane at the Young Vic, The Importance of Being Earnest in the West End, and MUSIK at Wilton’s Music Hall.Entertaining Mr Sloane – Young VicFinally, Entertaining Mr Sloane storms into the Young Vic with a thrilling new production of Joe Or
Clarkston & Just For One Day – Connection, Hope, and the Power of Music
This week Darren reviews Clarkston at Trafalgar Theatre - a beautifully observed, quietly powerful story about friendship, longing, and the search for meaning in small-town America.Clarkston – Trafalgar TheatreFrom Tony Award-winning writer Samuel D. Hunter (The Whale), Clarkston follows Jake, played by Heartstopper’s Joe Locke and Chris, as the brooding Rua
30 Years of Frantic Assembly
This week we’re celebrating three decades of one of the UK’s most exciting and influential theatre companies - Frantic Assembly. Known around the world for their bold physical storytelling and collaborative spirit, Frantic has transformed how theatre is made, studied, and experienced.In this special anniversary episode, we dive into:Ignition – their groundbreaking free talent development
Monster at Seven Dials Playhouse & Backstage with Abigail Hood
This week, Darren goes backstage with Abigail Hood, the acclaimed writer behind Monster, a gripping and thought-provoking drama exploring the ripple effects of crimes committed in childhood, forgiveness, and the cycles of trauma.Monster – Seven Dials PlayhousePresented by Veritas Theatre Company and KEPOW! Theatre Company, Monster is a triple OFFIE-nominated and one OFFIE-winning pr
Not Your Superwoman, The Code, Ben Forster Album Launch & Interview with Amy Rosenthal
This week we dive into some of the most compelling productions in London’s theatre scene with The Cide and Not Your Superwoman. We celebrate live music with Ben Forster’s album launch, and Darren sits down with playwright Amy Rosenthal to discuss her new play The Party Girls.Not Your Superwoman – Bush TheatreDarren reviews this poignant and witty production that explores mother-daughter relat
Exclusive chat with Stratford East's Lisa Spirling and Hanna Streeter
Today we’re joined by two women at the helm of one of London’s most historic and exciting theatres. Stratford East, founded back in 1884, has always been a place for global stories told in the heart of East London. It’s the home of Joan Littlewood’s revolutionary spirit and a launchpad for generations of theatre-makers, from Barbara Windsor to Cynthia Erivo.Now stepping into this legacy are L
The Pitchfork Disney – King’s Head Theatre & Backstage Interview
This week we delve into the darkly compelling world of The Pitchfork Disney at King’s Head Theatre. Darren reviews this intense and unforgettable play, exploring its surreal storytelling, psychological tension, and the electric performances that bring the story to life.Backstage Interview – Ned Costello & Elizabeth ConnickDarren goes backstage to speak with Ned Costello and Elizabeth
Silence, Sisters & Chaos: Fringe Highlights
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 RepublicWe’ll start with the Royal Court’s production of
Eireann A Taste of Ireland, Till The Stars Come Down and Interview with Sam Edmunds
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 companyEireann: A Taste of IrelandJourney 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.T
Brigadoon, Club NVRLND & Interview with Solomon Davy
This week we review two very different productions, each bringing their own magic to the stage.Brigadoon – Regent’s Park Open Air TheatreReturn 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 exp
Saving Mozart, Grease Immersive Movie Musical, & Interview with Bradley Hemmings MBE
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 PalaceExperience 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 o
: Girl from the North Country and A Role to Die For. Plus back stage with Jack Chambers
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 No
Sing Street, Brixton Calling & & Backstage with Amara Okereke & Kyle Rowe in Echo
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.
