Backstage Curry

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.

Wimbledon Championships referee, Denise Parnell, talks about being the boss of the fortnight.Former tennis pro, Denise Parnell became the first female Wimbledon Championships referee in 2024. One of only 13 women to hold the Gold Badge referee qualification, Denise is the top official and responsible for making the most important decisions…managing the tournament draw, scheduling matches, whether to stop play due to rain, when to close the Centre or No1 Court roof and generally ensuring that the most famous tennis event in the world runs smoothly and efficiently. Her discussion with Mark includes how the job came her way and what each day entails.

Last orders was called at the very well established Kings Head pub theatre in 2023. Now, around the corner from that venue, in Islington Square, London N1, is the bigger, purpose built 200 seater Kings Head Theatre. The current executive producer is Sofi Berenger and in this episode, Sofi tells Mark how the new space was created and why, as well as describing what audiences and performers can experience there.

First produced in London back in 1984, with music by Andrew Lloyd Webber and lyrics by Richard Stilgoe, “STARLIGHT EXPRESS” has thrilled audiences worldwide and can currently be seen in the Starlight Auditorium at Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre. Amongst the 40 performers is Jaydon Vijn, here describing how the show came his way, his preparation, the pressure plus the thrills AND spills of this spectacular show.

In this powerful and deeply personal episode, Mark is in conversation with Natasha Cayabyab, a young performer who is making an impact, not just for her talent, but for her courage and honesty in sharing her journey with Bipolar Disorder.Natasha talks about her diagnosis, the challenges she's faced, and the daily realities of living with a condition that's often misunderstood. From navigating mood swings to developing a strong support system, she shares how she manages her mental health while continuing to pursue her dreams and build a successful career.This candid conversation dives into the importance of self-awareness, therapy, medication, and routine — as well as challenging the stigma around mental illness that still exists in the theatre and beyond. Whether you live with Bipolar Disorder yourself or simply want to better understand the condition, this episode is a must-listen.

A chat with the renowned and highly respected Musical Director, Jae Alexander.Born in South Wales, Jae Alexander asked for a piano as a Christmas present when he was six years old! After studying and learning church music, Jae sang, stage managed and played piano for show rehearsals, before becoming a fully-fledged Musical Director on some of the biggest shows in London. He has led orchestras for Royal Command Performances and for television spectaculars and radio concerts. Jae goes from show to show, working on established musicals as well as new projects. Mark catches up with him during rehearsals for, “Stiletto”, at Charing Cross Theatre.  

Olivier Award nominee, Sophie-Louise Dann describes playing the iconic Madame Morrible, for the past 3 years, in the London production of, “Wicked”.Sophie-Louise Dann landed the role of Madame Morrible in 2022 and has played this monstrous but captivating character in the London production of, “Wicked”, for 3 years. With one month to go before she takes her final bow, Sophie-Louise talks about how she’s kept up her enthusiasm and dedication and describes her journey from audition to her final few performances.