Behind the Spotlight Podcast

In this episode of Behind the Spotlight, host Tina sits down with British-Australian actor Anthony Darvall, a performer known for his magnetic presence and fearless exploration of morally complex characters. From the stage to the screen, Anthony’s work delves deep into the darker corners of the human psyche, where charm meets danger, and truth blurs with illusion.Together, they unpack the evolution of Anthony’s craft, from his early training at ACTT to his current role in the darkly comic thriller #TOMMYMUSTDIE, where he portrays a narcissistic social media influencer whose life, and downfall, unfold in front of the world. Anthony reflects on finding empathy for the unlikable, protecting emotional boundaries while playing psychologically demanding roles, and how modern storytelling mirrors the performance of identity in our digital age.This candid and thought-provoking conversation offers a window into the mind of an actor unafraid to face the shadows, and reveal the humanity within them.

In this episode of Behind the Spotlight, we chat with musician and educator Roslyn Tesoriero, the creative force behind Aunty Rozzy “happy music with a healthy message.” Roslyn shares how her background in classical piano, jazz, and decades of teaching inspired her to create a fun and engaging way to help children make healthier choices. Through catchy songs, playful characters, and an infectious passion for wellbeing, Aunty Rozzy and her friends Perry the Parrot and Harriette the Rabbit are leading the veggie revolution one tune at a time.

In this episode of Behind the Spotlight, we sit down with Lionel Robinson, a singer, pianist, and genre-bending musician whose career has spanned continents and decades. From his early days as resident pianist at Elton John’s Covent Garden restaurant, to sharing stages with punk bands and heavy metal giants, to charming audiences in Australia with his cocktail-jazz-meets-Latin-lounge sound, Lionel’s story is one of constant reinvention. With his voice praised by Paul Williams and a passion for connection at the heart of his music, Lionel reflects on the highs, losses, and discoveries that shaped his journey. We dive into tales of music royalty, creative evolution, and what’s next for a man who refuses to stop creating.

In this episode of Behind the Spotlight, host Tina sits down with comedian, producer, and radio host Bob Stevenson, a driving force in Sydney’s stand-up comedy scene. From his first nervous steps onto the stage to performing at the Edinburgh Fringe, London’s West End, and venues across the globe, Bob shares the highs, hurdles, and hilarities of life in comedy. We explore his creative process, the art of producing unforgettable live shows, and his leap into broadcasting with The Comedy Hour on Radio Northern Beaches. Whether you’re a comedy fan, an aspiring performer, or simply someone who loves a good story, Bob’s journey proves that building your own spotlight can be just as rewarding as standing in it.

In this explosive episode of Behind the Spotlight, host Tina sits down with the dynamic and unstoppable Digby Robinson. A multi-instrumentalist, vocalist, and performer known for his high-octane work with Furnace and the Fundamentals and Big Red Fire Truck. With 16+ years of industry experience, Digby shares stories from massive festival stages, late-night tour buses, and yes, even wrestling rings. They unpack the chaos and craft of balancing multiple creative projects, the adrenaline of live performance, and the unexpected parallels between music and wrestling. It’s a wild, inspiring ride through the highs, the hardships, and the heart of what it means to truly live for the stage.

In this episode of Behind the Spotlight, host Tina sits down with the incredibly versatile Anne Dao, whose career spans across radio, acting, modeling, and pageantry. From her early days as a presenter at 3Quirksandaturk 89.3FM and 2GLF to her action-packed debut in the Echo 8 trilogy, Anne shares the experiences that shaped her journey. We dive into her transition from radio to acting, the challenges of playing intense characters, and how she manages to balance multiple creative pursuits. Anne also reflects on her time in pageants, her approach to mental preparation for physically demanding roles, and what’s next for her in the industry. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about versatility, growth, and the power of chasing your passions.

At just 17, Thea Ward is doing what most dream of—lighting up the stage while acing her final year of school. In this episode of Behind the Spotlight, we dive into the life of a young powerhouse who’s rewriting what it means to be an artist on the rise. From Legally Blonde to The Crucible, Thea brings depth and fire to every role she touches—all while navigating HSC exams and tight rehearsal schedules.We unpack how she developed her discipline, the influence of mentors like Richard Roxborough, and why she refuses to choose between passion and education. If you've ever doubted your ability to do it all, Thea’s story will reignite your belief in what’s possible when purpose meets persistence.

In this episode of Behind the Spotlight, we sit down with composer and producer Daniel Greis, whose work spans film, television, and music production. From his early days as a drummer and trumpet player to studying at Berklee College of Music, Daniel’s journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. He takes us behind the scenes of his mentorship with Junkie XL, working on blockbuster projects like Terminator – Dark Fate and Sonic the Hedgehog, and how those experiences shaped his approach to composition.We explore his work on major productions, including Superman & Lois, The Amazing Race Australia, and Hunted, discussing how he adapts his sound for different genres and mediums. Daniel also shares insights into his creative process, the challenges of scoring high-profile projects, and the evolving landscape of film and TV music.Whether you're an aspiring composer, a fan of cinematic scores, or simply curious about the music behind your favorite films and shows, this episode is packed with inspiration and industry wisdom.Tune in to hear Daniel’s journey, creative insights, and expert advice on making it in the world of film and TV scoring!