Backstage Curry

Back in 1989, the new McDonald family was being written into the storylines of Coronation Street and the search to find an actress to play Liz McDonald began.Beverley Callard was one of the hot favourites and here she describes the audition process, how much she wanted to be a part of this legendary series and how she’s learned to cope with the fame and attention Coronation Street has brought her.

EPISODE 40. AND SUDDENLY I BECAME ME!How presenting, Blue Peter, changed the life of Sarah Greene.After a guest appearance on, Blue Peter, Sarah Greene was invited for an audition to become one of the presenters on the programme in the early 1980’s. As an actress, enjoying some success at that time, Sarah had never considered television presenting, but she got the job and during her three year stint on the most famous children’s show in the world, her life and career changed. Sarah discusses with Mark how she was able to find her true, ‘on screen’, self during that time and how, Blue Peter, led to her having the successful career she’s still enjoying today.

Actress Susan Penhaligon talks about starring in the ‘70’s TV drama series, “Bouquet of Barbed Wire” and about the industry today.First broadcast on ITV in 1976, “Bouquet of Barbed Wire” was highly impactful and watched by millions. This controversial drama about the secrets and desires of a dysfunctional family, was critically acclaimed at the time and brought actress Susan Penhaligon fame and many career opportunities. Still performing today, Susan discusses the series and tells us why she has no thoughts of ever retiring.

Behind the scenes of the new STEPS musical, “HERE AND NOW”, with cast member Finty Williams.After a successful Gala performance in Manchester of the musical, “Here and Now”, which features songs by the top selling pop band, STEPS and which is receiving 4 and 5 star reviews-actress Finty Williams talks about her role in the show and about embarking on a UK and Ireland tour.https://actingforothers.co.uk/donate/

Performer Nicholas Pound describes being a part of the spectacular Asian tour of the musical, “The Phantom of the Opera”.A long way from his home in Sussex, the experienced performer, Nicholas Pound takes Mark behind the scenes of the 2025 Asian tour of the worldwide epic musical theatre success, “The Phantom of the Opera”. Two weeks after opening in Bangkok, Nicholas talks about the highs and lows of embarking on this theatrical adventure. 

Talking jazz with the award winning, uniquely talented jazz musician, Ian Shaw.Born in Wales and growing up in a musical household, Ian Shaw has become one of the UK’s leading jazz performers. His interpretations of songs from different genres of music, coupled with his own writing, has led to Ian being in constant demand at jazz venues and festivals worldwide. On the week of his appearance at the Rye Jazz Festival in August 2025, Ian describes his background and talks about his own preparation and performing process.

West End musical star Sophia Ragavelas on “nailing” those big, famous show tunes.Sophia Ragavelas has played such famous roles as, Grizabella in, “CATS”, Eponine and Fantine, in, “LES MISERABLES” and Sophie in, “MAMMA MIA”, amongst others. Here she describes handling the pressure and expectation when performing the well known iconic songs in those shows and her recent role in the new London musical, “KING OF PANGEA”. Sophia talks about her own preparation process and the guidance and support she now provides to other performers through her successful “ Musical Mentor” project.

Janet Ellis discusses turning her secret writing ambition into a reality.Embarking on a writing course turned actress and presenter Janet Ellis into a successful novelist. She describes how her first novel, “The Butcher’s Hook”, came about and now, as she works on her 3rd publication, Janet talks about her personal writing process.

The highs and lows of playing at Wimbledon with tennis legend Margaret Smith Court.After her first appearance on Centre Court at Wimbledon in 1961, Margaret Court, (nee Smith), went on to claim 10 titles at The Championships including 3 singles, 2 doubles and 5 mixed.Her Grand Slam total of 64 titles will probably never be beaten and she was often invincible. Playing at Wimbledon was always very special for Margaret but sometimes she found that Centre Court atmosphere a little overwhelming.Mark takes her through the 12 different years she played there as she remembers her wins and losses on the hallowed turf of the All England Lawn Tennis Club.