The WhatsOnStage Podcast
A weekly podcast from the team behind WhatsOnStage, hosted by managing editor Alex Wood and chief theatre critic Sarah Crompton. It covers theatre news, views, and frank exchanges, offering a guide to what's happening on stage, in film, and on television. Features interviews with stars and discussions on musicals, plays, and immersive shows.
Episodes
203. Josh O'Connor is a hit, Ava Pickett does it again and the fate of Sunday in the Park with George
Recapping after a very busy series of trips and outings, Sarah and Alex run through the biggest openings and stories of the week: new warnings about the threat of AI to the creative industries, a gloriously knockout performance from Josh O'Connor at the Almeida, reactions to the National's new season and the fate of Sunday in the Park with George at the Barbican... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/p
202. Bonus episode: Alain Boublil, Claude-Michel Schönberg and Annabel Mutale Reed on the new Martin Guerre
Martin Guerre has a devoted following amongst musical theatre fans, originally penned by Alain Boublil and Claude-Michel Schönberg, the two creators of that little-known musical Les Misérables (whatever happened to that one?). Now, they're returning to passion project Martin Guerre to give the musical a new lease of life at the Old Vic, staged in the round alongside rising star co-lyricist Annabel
201. Bonus episode: National Theatre’s 2027 season with Indhu Rubasingham
In our bonus episode, the intrepid Tom Millward is at the National Theatre’s launch to run through their bumper 18-show 2027 season, chatting with the wonderful artistic director Indhu Rubasingham. Then, Alex Wood and David Gordon (plus squeaky chair) chew through the shows in question, with the season featuring West Side Story, a new Punchdrunk immersive production, Tracy Letts and Paul Mescal in
200. The best revivals to see out the year (Autumn preview part 2)
It’s our 200th episode! Where has the time gone! Sarah and Alex reflect on the rollercoaster ride of podcasting their way through more than two years of theatre. But there’s important business at hand: as part of this second part of the autumn preview, they check in on musical classics in Manchester, multiple glitzy revivals about warring couples in the West End and even a stay in northern Scotlan
199. The best new work about to make a splash on UK stages (Autumn preview part 1)
September has rolled around, bringing with it overcast skies, school terms and, as you might expect, a whole lot of exciting theatre! Sarah and Alex team up for part one of our bumper autumn preview, spotlighting some of the brand new work ready to wow on stages across the UK. From Bristol to Pitlochry, there's everything from Ceilidh musicals to plays about John Maynard Keynes to look forwards to
198. Bonus episode: Tim Minchin on 15 years of Matilda and plans for new musicals
We're joined on this week's bonus episode by Tim Minchin, composer and lyricist of the treasured, international sensation, the RSC's Matilda the Musical. Minchin is celebrating 15 years of the multi-award-winning musical's success across the globe, with the West End productions and tour still going strong. He also teases four new shows he's working on over the next few years. Hosted on Acast. See
197. The Best Plays of the Century Part Eight: the years 2014/2015
Sarah and Alex hit the mid 2010s as they continue their foray into the finest theatre works of the 21st century. This time around, a wave of well-received American plays make a big splash on both sides of the Atlantic – with the likes of Annie Baker, Lynn Nottage and Branden Jacobs-Jenkins all wowing with new work. There's also a strong current of work coming from Scotland, with the Edinburgh Fest
196. Bonus episode: Pride musical finds a new London home!
Pride is moving down the Thames after its National Theatre run! We talk to director Matthew Warchus and writer Stephen Beresford about the musical's sell-out success and what the future holds as the production continues its life. Based on the true story depicted in the 2014 film Pride, the musical is set during the 1984 miners' strike. The story follows a group of lesbian and gay activists who for
195. Lin Manuel Miranda, The Greatest Showman - and reasons to be excited about radio drama
Alex and Sarah get back together to discuss Alex’s trip to D23, Disney’s huge fan event in California where the creator of Hamilton was celebrated and the West End production of The Greatest Showman was unveiled. Plus more highlights from the Edinburgh Festival and a cracking season of radio drama from the BBC to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the Royal Court. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/pri
194. Bonus episode: The Greatest Showman at Disneyland with Samantha Barks and Oliver Tompsett
Surprise! Alex has made the trip to Disneyland to mark the West End launch of The Greatest Showman, coming to Theatre Royal Drury Lane next spring. He sits down with Oliver Tompsett and Samantha Barks to discuss the gargantuan new musical's London run. What's more, he also caught up with the makers of Secret Cinema's Pirates of the Caribbean, running from February in Greenwich. Hosted on Acast. S
193. Bonus episode: Why comedy actors can do anything with Charly Clive and Ellen Robertson
We head to the Edinburgh Fringe to talk to Charly Clive and Ellen Robertson, normally known as comedy duo Britney, who are performing in a brand new play, Jitters. The duo, reflecting on a decade at the Fringe, detail what it's like breaking new ground professionally as they tackle a long-form drama as a twosome, and how the Edinburgh Festivals have changed over the last ten years. Hosted on Acas
192. Game of Thrones: The Mad King reviewed, Cats returns and Edinburgh highlights
It's a bumper reviews special! In what might be the biggest theatre opening of the year, the world of Game of Thrones comes to the stage in a gigantic production at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. But does it live up to the hype? Alex and Sarah discuss Dominic Cooke and Duncan Macmillan's efforts and what its future life might look like. Elsewhere, Sarah went to Regent's Park for a night under the
191. Ariana Grande, Trainspotting's fate and top shows at the Edinburgh Festivals
In a busy week Sarah and Alex talk about Ariana Grande’s decision to step back from her projected stage appearance opposite Jonathan Bailey in Sondhem’s Sunday in the Park with George. And as Alex sets off for Edinburgh, they discuss his top picks for the festival, the failure of Trainspotting and the death of Peter Gill. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
190. Bonus episode: The cast of Game of Thrones: The Mad King join the WhatsOnStage Podcast for an exclusive chat
Welcome to this bonus episode of the WhatsOnStage Podcast! A few weeks ago, we were lucky enough to take a very exciting trip into the rehearsal room for Game of Thrones: The Mad King, to chat to the lead cast about their time bringing Westeros to the stage. Currently in previews in Stratford-upon-Avon, the new stage play is penned by Duncan Macmillan and directed by Dominic Cooke. Joining the pod
189. Roger Allam on returning to the Old Vic, Les Misérables and playing a testicle for Alan Ayckbourn
With Sarah on foreign shores, Alex heads to the Old Vic rehearsal room to chat to stage and screen legend Roger Allam. Known for his TV and stage appearances in the likes of The Thick of It, Les Misérables and Frank and Percy, Allam is back on stage this summer in How The Other Half Loves at the Old Vic. And, apparently, he played a certain body part in an Ayckbourn radio play. Allam also touches
188. Bonus episode: Shaking up the West End with Phelim McDermott
Welcome to this bonus episode of the WhatsOnStage Podcast! Phelim McDermott has staged everything – gargantuan operas, intimate shows and even forays into the world of Studio Ghibli with My Neighbour Totoro. He now brings his show Tao of Glass to @sohoplace for a West End season – mixing puppetry, the music of Phillip Glass and pseudo-memoir in an experience hoping to redefine what a West End show
187. The Best Plays of the Century Part Seven: the years 2012/2013
The year of the London Olympics and its successor sees theatre at a red hot peak. Sarah and Alex discuss plays from James Graham’s breakthrough to Lucy Prebble’s The Effect and Lucy Kirkwood’s era defining Chimerica. Plus The Audience with Helen Mirren and the groundbreaking The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
186. Bonus episode: Tim Sheader on new Donmar season announcement + Hadestown stars on their film
Welcome to this midweek bonus episode of the WhatsOnStage Podcast! Today, the Donmar Warehouse's artistic director Tim Sheader (fresh from directing Jesus Christ Superstar at The London Palladium) reveals two brand new shows in his 2026 season – a new comedy involving Elvis' dead body, and a revival of Harold Pinter's No Man's Land. He also calls on more new comedies in UK theatre. After that, we
185. The Oresteia, the Odyssey and Lloyd Webber warns of Broadway tragedy
Sarah and Alex discuss Simon Stone’s new adaptation of The Orestia, out in the same week as Christopher Nolan’s blockbuster, and another example of the huge appeal of the Greeks. They talk about the cult surrounding Jonathan Larson, the composer of Rent, and ask whether Andrew Lloyd Webber is right when he puts the early closure of Cats:The Jellicle Ball down to the impossibility of producing thea
184. Bonus episode: No sooner Shed than done – producer Francesca Moody on her Edinburgh projects
Producer Francesca Moody has brought some iconic shows to the stage: Fleabag, Baby Reindeer and Weather Girl amongst their number. This year, she's taking three new productions to the Edinburgh Fringe, even working with partners like Global Creatures, the minds behind the Moulin Rouge! and Muriel's Wedding musicals. Shedinburgh will also be shooting down south to the Young Vic for a London spell,
183. Bonus episode: Hamilton's Thomas Kail on directing Moana and stage legend Frances Ruffelle discusses I Can Die Too
An interview double bill to end the week! Our main episode ran early to coincide with the barnstorming Palladium production of Jesus Christ Superstar at The London Palladium, but we had to wrap up the week with something special. Firstly, you can hear award-winning director Thomas Kail discuss his work on the live-action version of Moana, now sailing into cinemas across the world. We also ask Kail
182. Jesus Christ Supersized + Sarah talks Pride
What's the buzz? Our main episode has landed a few days early to coincide with the opening night of Jesus Christ Superstar at The London Palladium! Sarah and Alex discuss Sam Ryder's performance and the show's ability to awe on the largest stages. Elsewhere, it was a big, bold, exciting opening for Pride at the National Theatre, while Sarah and Alex mull over big news stories from the NT, RSC and
181. Russell Tovey in The Guilty, art by actors, and memories of Tom Stoppard
Actress Nancy Carroll returns to the podcast while Alex Wood takes a break. She and Sarah talk about their theatre outings to The Guilty at the Donmar Warehouse and Springwood with Robert Lindsay at Hampstead and the MAMA (Many Actors Make Art) exhibition Nancy is organising. Plus as a theatre is named the Stoppard, Nancy reveals his favourite thing in rehearsals - and why Arcadia is a perfect pla
180. Bonus episode: It's A Midsummer Night's Hot Mess as we bring the heat in a two-parter
Welcome to this bonus episode of the WhatsOnStage Podcast! In a double bill, we head first to Regent's Park Open Air Theatre to hear from three of the cast members of A Midsummer Night's Dream – Jenny Rainsford, Terique Jarrett and Mary Malone. The trio explain why Shakespeare's comedy is such a tried-and-tested hit at the beautiful outdoor venue. Secondly, we hop to The Other Palace for the
179. The Best Plays Of The Century Part Six: the years 2010/11
We've hit the 2010s! Sarah and Alex continue their odyssey through the top plays of the century, which in this episode has two central themes: plays about climate catastrophe and the gargantuan success of the Royal Court under Dominic Cooke. At the same time, playwrights like Branden Jacobs-Jenkins and Alice Birch are entering the mix... while Laura Wade correctly predicts Partygate a decade early
178. Bonus episode: RSC's former artistic director Gregory Doran on Venus and Adonis + new book Walking Shadow
Gregory Doran stops by on this bonus episode to discuss his production of Shakespeare's Venus and Adonis, performed by puppetry and narrated by Simon Russell Beale. As part of the chat, Doran also dives into the prompts behind his new book Walking Shadow, based on diary entries and experiences following the death of his husband, the legendary actor Antony Sher. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/priv
177. The art of naming theatres, and will Paddington work on Broadway
Awards season may be over but the theatre news does not slow down! James Graham is back with a brand new play landing direct in the West End, while news from New York sees that indomitable bear Paddington making its furry way to Broadway. Also - Judi Dench will have a theatre named after her, and there's great news from the Bush as part of its 2026 season. Plus, Sarah mulls over what she thinks of
176. Bonus episode: How The Traitors will work on stage
In this bonus episode of the WhatsOnStage Podcast, Alex sits down with Stephen Lambert, one of the masterminds behind the hit TV series The Traitors, as well as writer John Finnemore and director Rob Hastie, who explain how exactly they plan to bring The Traitors to the stage – in a multi-show experience like nothing else seen in the West End. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more
175. Bonus episode: Adrian Lester and Susannah Fielding talk Cyrano de Bergerac and the Dartmouth Scar Experiment
If you're looking for our main episode, we released it two days early as the dust settled on this year's Tony Awards. That said, we had to get a bonus episode in to help with your weekly theatre fix, so below is our interview with the two stars of the forthcoming West End transfer of Cyrano de Bergerac, Adrian Lester and Susannah Fielding, who will be returning to the roles of Cyrano and Roxane fo
174. Can we solve the theatre etiquette problem once and for all?
What's this? The main episode of the week coming out two days early? As the dust settles on another Tony Awards season, Sarah and Alex have a lot to chew on – topics include Brits thriving on Broadway, the sacrifices mothers have to make to succeed in the performing arts and, after an incident at Inter Alia, the mobile phone etiquette debate. If that's not enough, they also pick the six summer sho
173. High Cs on the high seas – Sarah has a nautical, musical adventure to New York
While Alex has been manning the fort back in London, Sarah has sailed over to the Great White Way for a small Broadway bonanza ahead of this weekend's Tony Awards. She observes the "Miller moment" that seems to be ongoing with productions of Death of a Salesman, All My Sons and Broken Glass all making headlines over the last year. After sampling the best New York has to offer, she makes some predi
172. Bonus episode: New musicals special with Redcliffe team, Sam Tutty and Christiani Pitts
In this bumper episode, we are celebrating the world of new musicals with two great insights into the experience of staging new world. In the first part, we bring you our on-stage discussion with the music team of Redcliffe, Jordan Luke Gage's brand new musical having its world premiere at Southwark Playhouse Borough. In part two, we head across the Atlantic to talk to Sam Tutty and Christiani Pit
171. The Best Plays Of The Century Part Five: the years 2008/9
As part of their long-running series, Alex and Sarah end the 00s with a bumper exploration of two pivotal years for playwriting this century – with Jez Butterworth's Jerusalem, Lucy Prebble's Enron, John Logan's Red, Lynn Nottage's Ruined and so many more to mull over. But which plays will be Sarah's top picks? And what have we forgotten from the month before? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privac
170. Bonus episode: Sara Bareilles on ten years of Waitress and new musical The Interestings
Ten years on from Waitress' Broadway bow, we had a virtual chat with composer and lyricist Sara Bareilles to discuss the lasting and profound effect of the show, from its much-loved numbers to its now-instantly recognisable characters. What's more, Bareilles is working on a brand new musical, and reflects on this second-time experience as she prepares to bring it to the stage. Hosted on Acas
169. Brecht, Shaffer and are theatre tickets really getting cheaper?
In another busy week Sarah and Alex sit down to discuss whether Peter Schaffer’s Equus is really the Adolescence of its day - and how relevant Brecht’s warnings about totalitarianism and war still feel. Plus a new report on theatre pricing prompts some new thinking Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
168. Bonus episode: How a 70-seat West End studio theatre goes from strength to strength
In this episode, we take an exclusive look at Jermyn Street Theatre’s newly announced 2026 autumn season, including the UK premiere of Simon Stephens’ A Slow Fire and a revival of Richard Eyre’s Ghosts. We discuss what A Slow Fire might bring to London audiences following its Dublin premiere, and why Kwame Owusu’s direction of Ghosts continues the theatre’s commitment to developing emerging voices
167. Why does Ian McKellen have unfinished business with King Lear?
And who gives a Krapp about Beckett? Sarah and Alex have been ranging across the country, seeing shows in Bowness-on-Windermere and Brighton recently, but still find time to mull over the biggest news stories of the week – from the plans for Ian McKellen to return to the stage in a new version of King Lear at the Yard, and the National Theatre's report into the impact of streamed theatre. Plus, Sa
166. Bonus episode: US stars Noah Galvin and Josh Radnor are bringing new writing to London
Alex sits down with the two stars of Hit Machine – Josh Radnor (known for playing Ted in How I Met Your Mother) and Noah Galvin (of The Good Doctor, Theater Camp and Dear Evan Hansen fame) – who will be performing at the Soho Theatre this summer. The new play by Jonathan Caren follows two estranged brothers, one a record mogul and the other an aspiring musician. It features original music by multi
165. Are the Tony nominations a warning sign for Broadway?
UK theatre fans had reason for cheer with Tuesday's Tony nominations, with recognition for Sam Tutty, Layton Williams, Lesley Manville, Luke Evans, Mark Strong, Rob Icke and many more, but does the full list reflect something more concerning about the state of Broadway? Alex and David mull on a very rocky season for the Great White Way. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
164. Bonus episode: Lesley Manville, Sonia Friedman and Mark Rosenblatt respond to their Tony nominations
Yesterday saw the Tony Awards nominations being revealed - in a great moment for UK theatre, with 41 nominations. We chat to producer Sonia Friedman (Oedipus), star Lesley Manville (Oedipus) and writer Mark Rosenblatt (Giant) about the success of their respective shows – Friedman also reflected on a very exciting period coming up for her company as it prepares to open a wave of new productions. H
163. Celebs declare war on phones in theatres
In a packed week of theatre news Sarah and Alex discuss Cynthia Erivo halting a show to stop filming —and Lesley Manville declaring war on photos. Is technology ruining or helping theatre? Plus: troubled waters at The Bridge, Broadway transfers and whether theatre could learn something from ParkRun. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
162. Bonus episode: The man shaking up the West End with experimental work
On this week's bonus episode, Alex chats to Omar Elerian, the director and adaptor of Kohlhaas, a brand new work making its world premiere in the first week of the Brighton Festival. Elerian is also the co-founder of There & Then, a new theatre company that will bring a starry West End season of White Rabbit Red Rabbit to the Duchess Theatre this summer, with stars including David Tennant, Riz
161. The Best Plays of the Century Part Four: the years 2006/7
In part four of the series, Sarah and Alex discuss the mighty War Horse, sublime new work from Complicité, incredible Scottish writing and blistering debuts. They also finally mull over the question – what actually is a play? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
160. Bonus episode: What is the future of new musicals?
Alex Wood comes to you from the Musical Theatre Conference 2026 at the Soho Theatre Walthamstow - a huge event that saw writers, producers and venue owners come together to mull over trends and issues facing the world of new musicals. We hear from Jethro Compton, one of the masterminds behind The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, about how his global perspective on making work has informed his proc
159. Are retooled classics muscling out new work?
A new version of Ibsen’s A Doll’s House gets Sarah and Alex thinking about new writing. Plus a stage musical of Thelma and Louise has been announced. How will that work? And a final mop up on the Oliviers. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
158. Bonus episode: Behind-the-scenes at the Olivier Awards with Rachel Zegler, Elaine Paige, Rosamund Pike and the Paddington team
It was a huge night at the Royal Albert Hall on Sunday as the Olivier Awards took place – with seven awards going to the much-loved Paddington The Musical. Elsewhere there were wins for Rachel Zegler, Into the Woods, Rosamund Pike, Jack Holden, James Graham and more – all of whom you can now hear in action. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
157. Inter Alia and legal drama on stage, and Man Utd and Leeds teams made up of actors
Sarah and Alex are inspired by Rosamund Pike’s starry performance in Susie Miller’s Inter Alia to think of other great dramas about the law. And ahead of the Manchester United versus Leeds Premier League clash they chose the best teams from actors born in the cities Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
156. Bonus episode: Calam Lynch and Noah Ritter discuss the Fifth Beatle in Please Please Me
On this bonus episode, we talk to Calam Lynch and Noah Ritter, two of the stars of Please Please Me, Tom Wright's play about Brian Epstein, often known as the "fifth Beatle." Lynch plays Epstein, with Ritter as the iconic John Lennon, with the play having its world premiere at the Kiln Theatre later this month. Ritter explains why he was destined to play John Lennon, while Lynch celebrates a retur
155. It was a tragic week for love on stage
Sarah has been hither and thither this week reviewing very long plays (with some very late endings) – with Romeo and Juliet starring Sadie Sink and Noah Jupe clocking in at three hours, while Les Liaisons Dangereuses with Lesley Manville and Aidan Turner not far off the same duration. It brings up all sorts of questions about love stories on stage, the importance of dance for bringing out unspoken
154. Bonus episode: Sadie Sink, Noah Jupe, Clare Perkins and Clark Gregg talk time-hopping Romeo and Juliet
Two rising stars in the acting world, Sadie Sink and Noah Jupe, are headlining a brand new production of Romeo and Juliet. We sit down to chat to the duo on their opening night, accompanied by co-stars Clare Perkins (Sweat, The Wife of Willesden) and Clark Gregg (the Marvel Cinematic Universe). As part of the conceit, the show involves a series of "what-if" moments, all exploring how the tragedy t
153. Bonus episode: Bumper interview bonanza with Hayley Atwell, Bryan Cranston, Marianne Jean-Baptiste and Rebecca Lucy Taylor
Welcome to this bonus episode of the WhatsOnStage Podcast! Our brilliant deputy editor Tom Millward has been busy recently, interviewing the great and good across the UK theatre world! So here's our interviews featuring Hayley Atwell, James Graham, Paapa Essiedu, Bryan Cranston, Marianne Jean-Baptiste and Rebecca Lucy Taylor... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
152. What kind of plays win prizes?
Awards season is trundling along with the Standard Theatre Awards and the Critics' Circle Theatre Awards all happening in the same week. If that's not enough to keep Alex and Sarah busy, they've also been trekking to Stratford-upon-Avon and a soggy Manchester, but found enough time to mull over the implications of the decision not to let national critics into the world premiere of One Day the Musi
151. Bonus episode: Into the Woods has a new Witch and we meet her
On this bonus episode of the WhatsOnStage Podcast, we meet the new Witch taking over from Kate Fleetwood in the Bridge Theatre's multi-award-nominated production of Into the Woods at the Bridge Theatre. A beloved WhatsOnStage Award-winning star, she's tackling Sondheim for the very first time! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
150. The Best Plays of the Century Part Three: the years 2004/5
In part three of the series Sarah and Alex discuss new work from Alan Bennett and David Hare while announcing the arrival of a new generation - Laura Wade, Simon Stephens, David Harrower among them Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
149. Bonus episode: John Proctor is the Villain stars Sadie Soverall and Dónal Finn talk the eagerly anticipated UK premiere
John Proctor is the Villain made a huge impact when it ran on Broadway, and it is finally making its UK premiere in a (now sold out) run at the Royal Court. Two of the show's stars, Sadie Soverall and Dónal Finn, discuss what the experience has been like and bringing this radical interrogation of Arthur Miller to the stage. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
148. Awards Season: Timothée Chalamet, the Oliviers and the Oscars
On this week’s episode Sarah and Alex discuss the triumphant WhatsOnStage awards show at the London Palladium, Timothée Chalamet’s recent comments on the arts, some unexpected showings in the Olivier nominations and whether Sinners will enjoy a late Oscars surge. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
147. Bonus episode: Backstage at the WhatsOnStage Awards with Stephen Fry, James Graham and the Paddington team
Sunday was WhatsOnStage Awards evening! Hear from all the winners as they collect their trophies, backstage at the iconic London Palladium in the heart of the West End. The evening also featured some stellar performances from the likes of Paddington, Hercules and The Phantom of the Opera. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
146. Into the Woods, Fiddler on the Roof and Broken Glass with director Jordan Fein
Jordan Fein talks to Sarah about the importance of community, making audiences feel involved and the difference between making theatre here and in the US. Plus: why he loves Stephen Sondheim and which show he’d like to direct next. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
145. Bonus episode: Musical theatre powerhouse Maimuna Memon on Manic Street Creature, career pressure and not being a lawyer
Today, we’re shining a spotlight on a performer who has become one of the most vital voices in British theatre. Fresh from her Olivier Award win for Natasha, Pierre and the Great Comet of 1812 and her captivating turn in Standing at the Sky’s Edge, Maimuna Memon is returning to the stage with the show that truly defined her as a powerhouse creator. She’s bringing her hit gig-theatre
144. We predict the Oliviers nominations – and have thoughts about the BAFTAS
With the WhatsOnStage Awards nine days away, the Oliviers nominations six days away, the BAFTAS five days ago and the Critics Circle nominees now revealed, it feels like the right time to spend a long time discussing awards – their intricacies, their politics and, when controversy arises, what can be done to solve problems. Then, Sarah and Alex try their best to predict who might get nominated for
143. Bonus episode – Wicked: For Good's Dorothy steps out of the shadows and tells all
Though sworn to secrecy, Wicked: For Good's Dorothy Bethany Weaver has finally been able to discuss her time in the blockbuster musical franchise, taking on a small but pivotal role. In a wide-ranging interview she discusses leading the March of the Witch Hunters scene, working with Jonathan Bailey and Ethan Slater, and how she worked out Judy Garland's iconic mannerisms. Hosted on Acast. See aca
142. We have a lot to say about Dracula with Cynthia Erivo
The biggest opening of the year so far came this week in the form of Dracula, marking the return of Cynthia Erivo to the London stage. Sarah and Alex voice their opinions on the tech-heavy take on Bram Stoker's bloody classic – but are there too many bells and whistles for this to work? Plus – Westeros is stage-bound – the podcasting pair break down the news of the new play, Game of Thrones: The M
141. Bonus episode: Andor star Elizabeth Dulau on playing George Eliot and the Star Wars universe
Fresh from wowing Disney audiences as Kleya in Andor, Elizabeth Dulau is playing the iconic poet George Eliot in Alexi Kaye Campbell's brand new play Bird Grove, currently in previews at the Hampstead Theatre. We discuss the surprising facets of Eliot's personality as well as the challenges faced with trying to bring such a revered literary figure to the stage. Beyond that, we also touch on Dulau'
140. The Best Plays of the Century Part 2: The Years 2002/03
In part two of the series, Sarah and Alex weigh up the merits of new work from Caryl Churchill, Roy Williams and Kwame Kwei-Armah. Plus new writing from Lucy Prebble and Lynn Nottage. Who will take the crown in each year? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
139. Bonus episode: Ben Platt and Mark Sonnenblick on their London musical UK premiere
Last month, WhatsOnStage was invited to the Menier Chocolate Factory to talk to the creator and star of their summer show, Midnight at the Never Get. Ben Platt will star in the UK premiere of Mark Sonnenblick’s musical. Set in 1965 New York, it follows Trevor Copeland and Arthur Brightman’s illegal romance, where they meet to perform songs in a secret nightclub act. David Cromer will dir
138. Godot, Slow Horses and why all TV actors should work on the stage
As he launches his new book about starring in Samuel Beckett’s Godot opposite Ben Whishaw, Lucian Msamati sits down with Sarah and Alex to lift the lid on the mood behind the scenes, the behaviour of audiences and why theatre is still like gym for young actors Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
137. Bonus episode: Newly announced Jonathan Larson Project cast talk the legacy of the RENT composer
On what would be Jonathan Larson's 66th birthday, the freshly revealed cast of The Jonathan Larson Project, including Grace Mouat and Max Harwood, came together for a special launch at Century Club in central London. At the same event, Jessie Elland, Maisie Smith and Jed Berry discussed their casting in the new production of Little Shop of Horrors, running in Manchester and Liverpool – while produ
136. The Traitors on stage! Cate Blanchett! Sandra Oh!
Phew – with new seasons at the National, Donmar Warehouse, Shakespeare's Globe and more, there's a lot for Alex and Sarah to unpack as they examine the latest announcements. But do all of these new shows suggest a growing cross-pollination between the worlds of theatre and screen? And what does it mean for audiences? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
135. Bonus episode: About time – with Jamie Muscato and Sharon Rose from One Day, and Billy Crudup and Denise Gough from High Noon
In this week’s bonus episode, we’re clock-watching! At Edinburgh’s Royal Lyceum Theatre we chat to the stars of One Day: The Musical – Jamie Muscato (Moulin Rouge!, Heathers) and Sharon Rose (Hamilton), who join us to discuss the challenge of ageing 20 years on stage and bringing this iconic "July 15th" love story to life through song. Then, we head to London’s&n
134. Bonus episode: Beverley Knight and Ntombizodwa Ndlovu on bringing Marie and Rosetta to the West End
The profound effect that Sister Rosetta Tharpe and Marie Knight had on contemporary music is rarely spelled out in full. There's a reason why Tharpe is heralded as the "godmother of rock ‘n’ roll." Between them, they helped reshape genres and alter tastes, all in a racist, misogynistic world that rarely gave them space to show off their groundbreaking talents.That is the story now coming to @sohop
133. The Best Plays of the Century Part 1: The Years 2000/01
At the beginning of a new series Sarah and Alex weigh the merits of the century’s new writing. Will Sarah Kane or Joe Penhall take the 2000 crown? And what about Martin McDonagh’s contribution to 2001? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
132. Why can theatre be so terrifying?
It may not be Halloween, but there definitely seems to be a spooky season on UK stages – with Paranormal Activity making things go bump in the night, A Ghost in Your Ear sending chills down the spine and 2:22 A Ghost Story back on the open road (all before Dracula has begun performances in the West End!). With that in mind, Sarah and Alex put on their bravest faces and discuss why fear works so we
131. Bonus episode: The cast of American Psycho let us into the rehearsal room
Editor-in-chief Alex Wood is heading back to the 1980s – well, a very specific, very sharp, and very bloody version of them. We’re talking about the highly anticipated revival of American Psycho at the Almeida Theatre. Based on the cult-classic novel by Bret Easton Ellis, with a book by Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa and a synth-heavy score by Duncan Sheik, this production marks a significa
130. Why are we so obsessed with Shakespeare?
As Hamnet starring Jessie Buckley and Paul Mescal opens in cinemas, Sarah and Alex consider the depictions of Shakespeare on screen from Shakespeare in Love to Upstart Crow and what they say about our attitudes to the Bard Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
129. Bonus episode: Robert Aramayo and Rosie Sheehy on building a marriage at the Royal Court
She's an Olivier Award-nominated actress that has wowed in shows like Machinal, Romeo and Julie and King John. He's a BIFA-winning screen star known for appearances in I, Swear, The Rings of Power and Game of Thrones, now making his professional stage debut. Together, Rosie Sheehy and Robert Aramayo will play the central couple in Luke Norris' Guess How Much I Love You?, the brand new play kicking
128. Theatre to watch in 2026: from Arcadia to Kimberly Akimbo, from Cynthia Erivo to Josh O’Connor and Tilda Swinton
As the new year arrives, Alex and Sarah look forward to some of the exhilarating theatrical treats in store which range from Aidan Turner’s return to the stage opposite Lesley Manvill in Les Liaisons Dangereuses at the National Theatre to Mischief Theatre’s first musical Thespians and the Royal Court’s 70th anniversary season. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
127. Bonus episode: Jack Holden on the five-star KENREX
Jack Holden had a runaway hit with Cruise back in 2021, one of the first new shows to rock the West End after the final lockdown. He's been pretty much non-stop since then – with new five-star show Kenrex opening to dazzling notices and audience acclaim in Sheffield. That show now begins a second London season, this time at The Other Palace in central London. It comes off the back of an assured st
126. Who are the theatre names ready to make a splash in 2026
With 2026 fast approaching, Sarah and Alex thought they’d run through some of the names expected to make a splash over the coming 12 months – from directors, to writers, to stage stars – there are some very exciting people making very exciting theatre across the country. We touch on a trendy new production of a David Hare classic, the return of the fist-pumping musical Sylvia and the indomitable r
125. Bonus episode: Producer Kenny Wax on Top Hat dancing back into London, the meteoric rise of Six and the merry success of Mischief
If you haven't heard of Kenny Wax, we are fairly certain you know some of his shows – a mastermind behind building brands from the ground up, he has steered productions like The Play That Goes Wrong and SIX to international acclaim. This Christmas, he has five shows running concurrently in the heart of the capital – on top of the previous two, Top Hat is dazzling at the Southbank Centre,
124. What were the best stage shows of 2025?
In our final main episode before Christmas, Alex and Sarah discuss their favourite shows of 2025, from Golden Globe winners on Palladium balconies to animatronic bears reducing thousands of punters to tears. With names like Bryan Cranston, Cate Blanchett, Brendan Gleeson, Rosamund Pike and Samira Wiley leading top-tier productions, there's a whole lot to chew on. The pair also pick out their favou
