Backstage Curry

The pressures of performing professionally can manifest. Life and Business Coach, Andy Barker, talks about his own personal struggles with performance anxiety in the past, how this led to him working BEHIND the curtain and how he’s developed “mind fitness” techniques to inform and educate.  

“White Christmas”, is the well known and popular seasonal musical by Irving Berlin. Director, Jonathan O’Boyle accepted the offer to stage this classic piece in the intimate setting of the Mill at Sonning, Berkshire. Here he describes his process and the challenge of putting on such a big show in a small space.

Part one of the two “WICKED”, movies has been released and the story of Elphaba and Glinda is more popular than ever. The incredibly successful musical theatre version opened in London in 2006 and it’s still playing to packed audiences. The UK Associate Director is former West End star, Petra Siniawski and here she talks about casting and staging a production which has become a phenomenon.

Formed in 1980 and still performing worldwide, Shakatak are enjoying continuous success with their unique jazz-funk sound. Their founder is keyboard player Bill Sharpe and here he’s joined by lead vocalist Jill Saward to talk about Shakatak’s popularity, longevity and their life on the road.

Actor and writer, Mark Farrelly, talks about creating his own solo productions which include material about Quentin Crisp, Derek Jarman and Patrick Hamilton. Mark describes how his solo shows came to fruition, and discusses the logistics of writing, performing and producing the projects. Why do these particular characters, (including comedian, Frankie Howerd), fascinate him? Why did Mark want to create his own opportunities and…What’s it like being the only one on stage?  

First created in the 1960’s and going on to enjoy chart success in the Uk, USA, Japan and most of Europe, The Three Degrees are still performing and Valerie Holiday, who joined in 1967, talks about the THEN and NOW of being with the group.. and how the 2024 tour is wowing their fans.

As well as winning, “Eurovision”- “Bucks Fizz”, had 3 UK no1 hits. One of their songs, “New Beginning”, is an apt title to describe what’s happening for three of the originals. Cheryl Baker talks about how the band were forced to change their name, about Mike Nolan leaving and about her and Jay Aston looking for a replacement. Let’s go on tour with.. “The Fizz”!

“YOU’RE IN THE MIX”This is what a performer hears when they’re down to the last few for a role in a show. Jane Deitch offers a fascinating glimpse into the TV and Theatre world of the Casting Director whilst offering some vital “do’s and don’ts” for those auditions!