Shows
The Uncensored Critic PodcastTom Edden on Waiting for Godot and One Man, Two GuvnorsTom trained at Rose Bruford and has had an incredible career in the theatre as well as on screen. For screen he has appeared in:Starstruck 2For the BBC: Upstart Crow, The Woman in Red and Doctor WhoStar Wars Episode 7: The Force AwakensCinderella, directed by Ken BranaghMr Turner, directed by Mike Leigh, starring Timothy SpallFor theatre:Peter Pan Goes Wrong, Mischief Theatre CompanyOliver!, Theatre Royal Drury Lane, starring Rowan AtkinsonLes Misérables, Queens Theatre playing Thenardier Matilda, RSCPinter at the PinterCyrano de Bergerac with James McAvoy, directed by...
2025-07-142h 00The Uncensored Critic PodcastOliver Alvin-Wilson on "Now, I See" at Stratford East and the Impact of TheatreOliver is an actor with an immense amount of experience in the theatre.He trained at East 15 and was recently part in the Olivier-Nominated play “Now, I See” at Stratford East, a play that he called one of the most profound experiences in his career. His other theatre credits include:All of Us, National Theatre, dir. Ian RicksonDr Strangelove, West End with Steve CooganMidsummer Night’s Dream, Young VicNow, I See, Stratford East amongst many more.He also has appeared in:
2025-05-071h 36The Uncensored Critic PodcastEleanor Rhode on Directing for the RSC and The GlobeEleanor is a director with over 10 years experience directing Shakespeare for the RSC, audio dramas and new writing.Her most recent work includes: Midsummer Night’s Dream, for the RSC and Barbican starring Matthew Bayton (Deano from Gavin and Stacey) Once Upon a Time in Nazi Occupied Tunisia, Almeida King John, RSC, starring Rosie Sheehy UK Premiere of Blue Door, Theatre Royal Bath Wendy and Peter Pan, Royal Lyceum Edinburgh Critically acclaimed World Premiere of Boudica, The Globe with Gina McKee in the title roleIn 2009 she co-founded Snapdragon Pro...
2025-03-031h 39The Uncensored Critic PodcastDanielle Hope on Winning BBC's "Over the Rainbow" and Life in Musical TheatreDanielle is an actor, singer, composer and part of musical theatre folklore. She began her career at the age of 18 where she was selected from over 9,000 girls to be part of the 10 finalists on the BBC show “Over the Rainbow”. Led by Andrew Lloyd Webber. A show dedicated to finding the new actress to play “Dorothy” in the brand new production of “The Wizard of Oz” that played at the London Palladium in 2011. She wowed judges with performances of “Could It Be Magic” (Barry Manilow), “On My Own” from Les Miserables, and fa...
2025-02-241h 41The Uncensored Critic PodcastYaël Farber on Arthur Miller's "The Crucible" and Directing for TheatreIn this episode I welcome along one of my heroes Yaël Farber! Yaël is multi-award winning director and playwright whose work has received international acclaim. Her productions have toured all over the globe being praised for their visceral qualities. She has two Olivier Award nominations both for Best Revival of a Play:Macbeth, Almeida 2021The Crucible, Old Vic 2014But has over 29 awards to her name including:Helen Hayes Awards - 10 nominations for her adaptation of “Salomé”Evening StandardBroadway World Amnesty International Freedom of...
2025-02-131h 43The Uncensored Critic PodcastSamuel Small on Growing Up in the BusinessSamuel Small has already achieved so much in the business already having started so young.His early credits include working Michael Bublé and Idina Menzel's music video "Baby It's Cold Outside" and with the RSC on "Matilda" in the West End directed by Matthew Warchus. All happening around the time he was a student at the prestigious Sylvia Young Theatre School. Since then he has made appearances as:- "Rob", regular role in So Awkward - BBC Bafta-Winning Series- "Game of Thrones"- Jack in "T...
2025-02-041h 05The Uncensored Critic PodcastMiriam O'Brien on Pericles with the RSC, The Woman in Black and Short Film "The Date"Miriam trained at LIPA (Liverpool Institute of the Performing Arts) and has worked extensively in theatre as well as for screen. For theatre she has appeared at the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse and The Globe in Much Ado About Nothing, and many credits at the Torch Theatre in Milton Haven, Wales. Including: One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest One Man, Two Guvnors Sleeping Beauty The Woman, in the Woman in Black. As well as appearances at the National Theatre, Liverpool Everyman, Warwick Arts Centre and the Royal Court Liverpool amongst many more. For s...
2025-01-241h 27The Uncensored Critic PodcastLouise Beresford on appearing in Magic Goes Wrong and Performing ComedyLouise is an actress, writer, comedian and Mountview graduate who has worked across the West End and many comedy circuits across the country. She has worked extensively with Mischief Theatre company who are behind not only Magic Goes Wrong, but, The Play That Goes Wrong and Peter Pan goes Wrong among many other sketches. Some you may have seen on the Royal Variety and Comic Relief over the last few years. Louise discusses her love for comedy, how to keep it fresh for each performance and that each night is different. Every audience will react in...
2025-01-131h 52The Uncensored Critic PodcastSarah Milton on Writing for TheatreSarah trained at Mountview on the BA Acting course on a full scholarship graduating in 2012. Since graduating she has gone on to become a nominated writer and performer. She is an alumni of several writing workshops from the Lyric Hammersmith, Soho Theatre, High Tide, and the RADA Advances in Script Writing. She has four plays to her name, “Tumble Tuck”, “Lucy Light”, “4” and “The Night Tella” all published by Bloomsbury Methuen Drama. All have had a great amount of success, in particular “Lucy Light” that ran at the Theatre N16 and the VAULT Fest...
2024-12-161h 33The Uncensored Critic PodcastAlix Dunmore on Perfecting AccentsAlix is an actress, voice artist and accent coach whose worked with actors, producers and even people who aren’t in the arts at all. From people in different workplaces, executive producers, actors at Shakespeare’s Globe and the Chichester Festival Theatre to name a few. Alix trained at the Bristol Old Vic Theatre School and has been a part of many projects across stage and screen. From:DoctorsHolby CityCall The MidwifeHaven for Amazon PrimeBodies at the Southwark PlayhouseCinderella at the Norwich Theatre RoyalThe Silver Cord at the Finborough Theatre, for which she received an Off...
2024-12-111h 40The Uncensored Critic PodcastAnnalie Howling on How to Live Your Best Life and How to Deal with ShameIn her own words: My purpose is to help you liberate yourself from limiting beliefs and live your fullest potential. Annalie is a highly qualified performance coach who’s worked with elite sportsman, leaders in business and members of the armed forces. Her work is to relieve you from limiting beliefs that you have on yourself and make you realise just how strong and powerful you are. Despite what any “friend”, colleague, stranger or even family member might say. She has an extensive background in the corporate world, working with FTSE (Financial Times Sto...
2024-12-071h 05The Uncensored Critic PodcastClaire Cartwright on Shakespeare, Working with The Theatrical Guild and the Short Film "The Date"Claire is an actor who holds a degree in English Literature from the University of Edinburgh and an MA from the recently closed drama school ALRA in London. Claire has worked extensively across Film, TV and stage at places such as, The Bush Theatre, The Park Theatre and Trafalgar Studios to name a few. As well as in the ever-present classic Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap. For screen she recently wrapped on an adaptation of one of her favourite books, Grief Is The Thing With Feathers alongside Benedict Cumberbatch. More...
2024-12-021h 33The Uncensored Critic PodcastEvangeline Victoria on Performing Weddings and Football StadiumsEvangeline (Evie) is an award-winning violinist and entertainer with over 21 years experience in the music business. She graduated from the Melbourne Conservatorium of Music and has built a career not only performing popular songs for weddings and football stadiums but also pieces of classical repertoire. Her talents have been heard across Europe and Australia, including performances with the Orchestra Victoria, the National institute of Circus Arts and Cirque Du Soleil. She’s shared the stage with the likes of Damien Leith, Conrad Sewell, Kygo and Tiesto. ...
2024-11-261h 30The Uncensored Critic PodcastEve Shanu-Wilson on Performing Christine Daaé in Phantom of the Opera and Life as a West End CoverEve is currently performing as the alternate Christine Daaé in Phantom of The Opera in London’s West End. She is another member of the GSA family, having graduated in 2022 and gone straight into the West End as one of the most celebrated roles in musical theatre. Catch her on Tuesday and Friday nights every week at His Majesty’s Theatre. Eve discusses her time at GSA, her early inspirations to become a performer, as well as the rigorous audition process she went through to land a role in Phantom...
2024-11-211h 20The Uncensored Critic PodcastAlex Mill on Being an Assistant Director and How Actors Can Know Their WorthAlex is a director, writer, intimacy co-ordinator and has her own production company “Encrypt Eternity”. She has worked as a director, 1st AD (assistant director), 2nd AD with over 11 years experience. As well as a mindful intimacy consultant, Story Ambassador for the Open World Alliance and Production Assistant for Richard Gold Media. She is also the producer of a number of short films including one we worked on together in Guildford called “A Path to Ecstasy” directed by Abdullah Khan, starring Mike Jibson and Louie Serkis (son of Andy).
2024-11-161h 25The Uncensored Critic PodcastDavid Leveaux on Directing for Theatre and working with Harold Pinter and Tom StoppardDavid is one of the most esteemed and celebrated directors in the British theatre scene. His work has been shown across the globe and he's worked with some titans of the business, two being Harold Pinter and Tom Stoppard. He has over 10 Tony, Outer Critics Circle and Drama Desk nominations to his name. As well as an Emmy nomination for "Jesus Christ Superstar Live in Concert" in 2018 for Outstanding Directing for a Limited Series, movie or dramatic special. He's also worked for the Scottish and English National Operas and was assistant to Samuel Beckett. H...
2024-10-221h 52The Uncensored Critic PodcastStefanie Sword-Williams on Self-Promotion | Part 2The return of Stephanie Sword-Williams!Miss F*ck Being Humble herself returns to the show to discuss more about her brand, book and what new discoveries she’s found over the past year. Since we last spoke Stefanie has taken FBeingHumble to New York, where she opened a “Free Business Advice” stand in Washington Square Park. Open to anyone to wanted to ask any questions about their current or aspirational career path, an open, honest chat with anyone who wanted to ask questions or hear advice about the best way forward. Stef shares her bra...
2024-10-091h 12The Uncensored Critic PodcastCassandra Woodhouse on Touring Theatre and the Impact of Prima FacieCassandra is an actress who recently finished her one woman tour of Suzie Miller’s one woman show Prima Facie across New Zealand. She trained at Casting House with Jami Rudovsky and Diana Castle at the Imagined Life Studio. Her credits include:Short Film: Every Little Thing, Dir. John HarrisWeb Series: The Egg Plant and Chloe and The…For TV:Filthy Rich Season 2Shortland Street, South Pacific ProductionsOutrageous FortuneTall Poppies (Lead Role)The Almighty Johnsons Season 3For Theatre:A regular performer at the Dolphin Theatr...
2024-09-302h 29The Uncensored Critic PodcastHarry Burton on Harold Pinter | Part 3 | The HomecomingHarry is an actor, director, filmmaker and long time friend and collaborator of the late, great Harold Pinter, and it’s a privilege to welcome him back to the show for a third time!On our next journey into the world of Pinter we now turn our attention to “The Homecoming”. In the play we are invited into the home of Max and his sons Lenny, Joey and Teddy who’s visiting from overseas with his wife Ruth. Fresh from their travels around Europe, Teddy and Ruth return to the family home in North London wh...
2024-08-312h 28The Uncensored Critic PodcastAlexa Morden | Part 2 | FilmmakingThe return of Alexa Morden!Alexa returns to the show to discuss her filmmaking and acting. We talk about how she made her films:Hers (short)Standby (short) that was nominated for a BAFTAAs well as her multiple-nominated performance in “The Colour of Spring”, available on Amazon Prime and Apple TV.Alexa breaks down how you can make a short film on a budget, how collaborating with others and having fellow filmmakers as friends is a huge bonus! She talks about the w...
2024-08-242h 02The Uncensored Critic PodcastFelicity Jackson on Supporting Actors and Creating "Actors Pro Expo"Felicity attended The Court Theatre Training Company where she gained a BA in Acting. After graduating she founded “Surviving Actors Ltd”, a networking event that saw 2,000 actors a year attended for more information on workshops, reels, headshots and talks about the industry. As well as this, she also founded “Casting Days Ltd”, which initially was launched as an acting showcase company, but then transitioned into a working relationship with “Star Now”. Supporting UK casting professionals and running affordable workshops for actors. On top of this she is also the founder and director of “Actors Pro Expo”. A compa...
2024-08-201h 12The Uncensored Critic PodcastAlexa Morden on The Tough Side of the Business and How It Needs to ChangeAlexa is an actress, filmmaker, producer and podcaster, host of her own show “The 98%” available wherever you get your podcasts. Alexa graduated from the Manchester School of Theatre and worked extensively winning 25 Best Actress Awards from film festivals worldwide for her performance in “The Colour of Spring” available on Amazon Prime. As well as this her other screen work includes:Lost in TimeThe War BelowHers (short)Standby (short) that was nominated for a BAFTAStuffy (short)October Horse (short)The Incredible Adventures of Professor Branestawn alongside Adrian Sca...
2024-08-151h 39The Uncensored Critic PodcastLucy Eaton on Staged and Producing TheatreLucy trained at LAMDA following a degree from the University of Cambridge. Alongside acting she also has her own theatre company "Go People", a company that specialises in intimate drama. Previous productions include:- Almost- Maine- And a 7 actor cast of A Midsummer Nights DreamMore information can be found at: www.wearegopeople.comAs well as the creator and host of her own podcast "Hear Me Out", available wherever you get your podcasts, where she talks to actors and...
2024-08-101h 47The Uncensored Critic PodcastJBR on Life as an AgentJBR is in charge of JBR Creative Management, a London-based boutique agency working with creatives across the business from all backgrounds. JBR is not only an agent, they have dabbled with being an actor, drag queen, producer, pub landlord, writer, designer, comedy booker, marketing manager and editor for several magazines. They also hold degrees in :- TV and Film from Bristol- PGCE from London Met- MA in Performance from MountviewThey also have a book out "Getting, Keeping and Working with your Acting Agent". A...
2024-07-291h 07The Uncensored Critic PodcastJeff James on DirectingJeff is a director, writer and dramaturg who has worked across the globe on his own work, Shakespeare and ballet companies. As well as being a long time friend and collaborator of Ivo Van Hove.His most recent production was an adaptation of Shakespeare's A Winter's Tale at the Dailes Theatre in Latvia. Setting it in the modern era of social media/Silicon Valley with the characters being absorbed into the internet. Jeff discusses his show and how he likes to call the Winter's Tale the bard's "wildest and unpredictable" play.
2024-07-151h 41The Uncensored Critic PodcastRosie Sheehy Part 2 | Machinal at the Old Vic and Puck at the RSCThe return of Rosie Sheehy!Fresh from her critically acclaimed performance of the Young Woman in Sophie Treadwell's "Machinal" at the Old Vic, Rosie returns to discuss her experience in the play and her unique take of Puck in A Midsummer Nights Dream at the RSC. Machinal is based on the true story of Ruth Snyder who was executed in the electric chair in 1928 after murdering her husband Albert with her lover Henry Jude Gray. A play talking about the dark side of human ambition, frustration and need for...
2024-07-011h 07The Uncensored Critic PodcastCandida Caldicot on playing live in The Lehman TrilogyCandida is an MD (musical director), composer and arranger whose worked across the globe on musicals and plays. Her work includes:As composer:The Little Prince at the Taunton BrewhouseThe Tempest and The Hostage at the Southwark PlayhouseBuckets at the Orange Tree TheatreAs an MD:Woyzech, Old Vic with John BodegaKing Lear, Duke of York’s Playhouse with Ian McKellenTo Kill A Mockingbird, Gielgud Theatre with Matthew Modine and Race SpallA Strange Loop, West End and Barbican, the show received 11 Tony NominationsThe Hills of California, Harold Pinter Th...
2024-06-1444 minThe Uncensored Critic PodcastKrupa Pattani on Mr Bates vs The Post Office and As She Likes ItKrupa trained at Drama Studio and has worked in audiobooks, film, TV and theatre. Her credits include:- Love on the Menu - Audiobook- Honeycomb Lodge - Film For Stage:At the Grosvenor Park Open Air Theatre:- Midsummer Nights Dream- Othello - Cyrano de Bergerac- Twelfth Night- Masters are you MadAs well as:- Robin Hood...
2024-05-301h 21The Uncensored Critic PodcastRachel Birch-Lawson on MovementRachel is currently Head of Movement at the Guildford School of Acting.She trained at the London Contemporary Dance School, graduating in 2006, and in 2009 she was selected for a unique choreographic programme, Dance Beyond Borders, which took her work across Europe, including Germany, Belgium as well as across the UK. She holds an MA in Choreography from Trinity Laban, a fellowship from the Higher Education Academy, moreover she’s an associate of the Institute for Leadership and Management and a Consent Forward Artist certified by the IDC (Intimacy, Director’s and...
2024-05-201h 29The Uncensored Critic PodcastTom Kelsey on Understudying in The Shark is Broken and A Little LifeTom trained at RADA and has been involved in a vast array of projects such as:- Film: My Bloody Galentine - Clusterf*ck - Web SeriesShort Films - Number 11 and Digging Animations - Kill Clause and Video Game - By Grit Alone As well as on stage where he understudied a number of parts in "The Shark is Broken", a dramatisation of what happened behind the scenes on the set of Jaws at the Ambassador's Theatre. Including A Little Life, covering Jude St Francis (James Norton) and...
2024-05-061h 26The Uncensored Critic PodcastKate Godfrey Part 2 | Understanding ShakespeareThe return of Kate Godfrey!Kate is an actress, voice coach and one of the leading Shakespeare experts of our time. She returns to the show to unpick some Shakespeare monologues with me. Showing how she works with actors one on one to find the meaning in the text, helping them with how verse speeches are written and to play them as best you can. Paying attention to the punctuation, how long or short a thought is, and asking what the sub-text/wider story is and why would they be saying the things...
2024-04-241h 41The Uncensored Critic PodcastJane Moriarty on Being an Associate Director, Prima Facie and FilmmakingJane is a director, writer and filmmaker that has been a finalist in both the JMK Director's Award in 2019 and the Genesis Future Director Award with the Young Vic in 2018. She trained at Mountview after achieving her undergraduate degree in English, Drama and Theatre studies at the University of Cork. She has worked extensively as an associate director on productions such as:- Taming of the Shrew at The Globe- Christmas Tree and Queen Ann at the RSC- The Birthday Party at the Harold Pinter Theatre, dir...
2024-04-151h 31The Uncensored Critic PodcastGeorgia Bird on Stage Management and the Impact of Prima FacieGeorgia is the general manager of Empire Street Productions, working closely with the CEO and producer James Bierman making world class theatre for the London and International Stage. She originally trained as a Stage Manager at Rose Bruford College and has been in the wings for shows both in the UK and overseas, including:- The Audience- Photograph 51- The Inheritance- The End of Longing- The Mirror and the Light- Prima Facie, amongst many more. Georgia...
2024-03-071h 33The Uncensored Critic PodcastChloe Wade on Writing for Theatre and her play As SHE Likes ItChloe is an actor, writer and theatre maker who trained at the International School of Acting and Central School of Speech and Drama. With over 10 years of working in film, TV and theatre she is best known for playing Joanne Grantham in BBC’s Doctors and the lead role in independent film Honeycomb Lodge that won the Best Film at the Delhi International Film Festival. Over lockdown she starred alongside Helen Mirren in The Secret Life of Ophelia. She is also the alumna of the Actor-Writer course and is a supported writer of the Sheffield Thea...
2024-02-231h 19The Uncensored Critic PodcastMildred Yuan on Life as An AgentMildred Yuan is one of the top agents in the UK who represents world class performers and creatives from every corner of the industry. Her speciality is finding clients that excel in more than one area and help them find out where they want to go next. Alongside being an agent, one thing you may not know about her is that she’s lived a secret double life as a dancer. She trained at the Ballet Austin Academy in the USA and the Team Diablo Academy in Italy, which many call the elite centre for...
2024-02-191h 31The Uncensored Critic PodcastVictoria Blunt on Vanya and Tackling a One Person ShowVictoria trained at the Oxford School of Drama and the Ecole Phillip Gaulier outside Paris. Her screen work includes appearances on:Ammonite, directed by Francis Lee, produced by See Saw Films and BFIFlowers in the Attic, Lifetime USABorderline, LittleRock ProductionsAs well as extensively in theatre:Prism, National Tour - where she gave “an exquisite demonstration of what it is to be diverse and adaptable as an actor” - Upper Circle Review. Love Labour’s LostRomeo and Juliet, Benvolio on UK and International TourLady Windermere’s FanA Christmas Carol, RSCA Lavender Hill Mob, UK TourMidsum...
2024-02-121h 25The Uncensored Critic PodcastAlison Tanney on The Importance of TheatreAlison Tanney is a director, theatre enthusiast and host of her own podcast The Theater Enthusiast Podcast available on Apple and Spotify.Alison holds a BFA in Acting from Pace University, since college she's turned her attention to directing and producing her own podcast. During the pandemic she directed 18 virtual plays with some of Broadway's best performers. Her guest's work have been recognised both in the USA and the UK with the likes of Jamie Parker and Samuel Barnett who starred in the original company of The History Boys by Alan Bennett. Her...
2024-01-312h 07The Uncensored Critic PodcastEmilio Doorgasingh on A Little LifeEmilio Doorgasingh is another member of the Little Life family playing “Andy”, Jude’s Doctor at the Richmond Theatre, Harold Pinter Theatre and Savoy Theatre this year. This episodes contains spoilers!His other credits include, for screen:Casualty Ted Lasso Series 2Game of ThronesFor stage:The Kite Runner, West End and UK TourPresent LaughterMuch Ado About Nothing, The GlobeBest of Enemies, Young Vic and Noel Coward Theatre alongside David Harewood and Zachary QuintonA Little Life
2023-12-071h 51The Uncensored Critic PodcastSabina "Sabs" Netherclift on Jacques LeCoq | Part 2The return of Sabina “Sabs” Netherclift!Sabs returns to discuss more about her time with Jacques LeCoq on Paris and her love of movement all together. We delve deeper into LeCoq’s work including the exercises, “The Invisible Room”, the “Seven States of Tension” and “Clowning”. As well as when she turns her skills towards directing, having directed Helen Edmunson’s play “Coram Boy”. We talk how she likes to conduct the rehearsal room, how she approaches text and how her training in Paris helps with words as well a...
2023-11-041h 20The Uncensored Critic PodcastOrlando Mendez on The Voice USA, Country Music and Future ReleasesOrlando Mendez aka “The Cuban Cowboy”, star of The Voice USA in 2022 talks country music, being mentored by Camila Cabello and his upcoming EP’s.Orlando was one of the starts on the USA’s edition of The Voice, at his auditions (available on YouTube) he won the mentorship of Camila Cabello (songs include “Havana” and “Señorita”) and proceeded to make his mark not only on the show but on country music. Since then he has a series of EP’s that will become available this year and into 2024, his next...
2023-10-2827 min
The Uncensored Critic PodcastOrlando Mendez on The Voice USA, Country Music and Future ReleasesOrlando Mendez aka “The Cuban Cowboy”, star of The Voice USA in 2022 talks country music, being mentored by Camila Cabello and his upcoming EP’s.
Orlando was one of the starts on the USA’s edition of The Voice, at his auditions (available on YouTube) he won the mentorship of Camila Cabello (songs include “Havana” and “Señorita”) and proceeded to make his mark not only on the show but on country music.
Since then he has a series of EP’s that will become available this year and into 2024, his next song “Where I Am Right Now” will be...
2023-10-2827 minThe Uncensored Critic PodcastElliot Cowan on A Little LifeElliot appeared in the play adaptation of Hanya Yanagihara’s book “A Little Life” that recently played at the Harold Pinter Theatre and the Savoy in London. A play in which many are calling “the theatre event of 2023”. Directed by Ivo Van Hove the play follows Jude St Francis (played by James Norton) and the devastating trauma he was exposed to as a young child at the hands of Brother Luke, Caleb Porter and Dr Traylor. All three characters Elliot played in the production. Elliot talks about how he found out ab...
2023-10-231h 56The Uncensored Critic PodcastLaura Elphinstone on Line of Duty and Life as An Actor | Part 2The return of Laura Elphinstone!So great to welcome back Laura Elphinstone to the show, a fantastic actress whose work includes "Line of Duty", "Chernobyl", "Game of Thrones" and many more. This time we take a look at Laura's latest work in ITV's police drama "Grace" which she has been a part of over the last few years, as well as the other hit show "Line of Duty". Before she became an actor Laura had previously thought about a career in the police and...
2023-10-141h 08The Uncensored Critic PodcastMarianne Oldham on A Monster Calls and Devising TheatreMarianne Oldham is an actress who was also part of the incredible company who made A Monster Calls at the Bristol Old Vic which transferred to London in Summer 2018. A show discussed in depth on this show and one that stays extremely close to my heart.
She is also well-known for her roles in:
A Very English Scandal
Finding Your Feet
Crimson Field
The Impressionists
As well as a huge body of work in the theatre with credits that include:
Present Laughter
A...
2023-10-091h 16The Uncensored Critic PodcastDani Arlington on Prima Facie and The Importance of UnderstudiesDani Arlington recently understudied Jodie Comer in Prima Facie in London at the Harold Pinter Theatre and in New York at the Golden Theatre. In what was called the theatrical event of 2022 that followed a young lawyer Tessa fighting for justice for women who have been the victim of sexual assault cases. Dani trained at Mountview and the HB Studio in New York and has worked extensively across Theatre and Screen. Making appearances for screen in:Doctors and The Dumping Ground for the BBCHow Not to...
2023-10-021h 18The Uncensored Critic PodcastStefanie Sword-Williams on Self-Promotion and How It Isn't a Bad ThingWith over eight years of experience in advertising Stefanie Sword-Williams has built up an incredible amount of work as well as story-telling expertise. Applying her knowledge to support anyone in any industry by helping people know their worth. In 2018 she set up “F*ck Being Humble”, a platforms designed to do just that. Inspire and remind people of their achievements and celebrate how much they’ve accomplished so far. Making people unapologetically proud of their work. Since then she has written her debut book “F*ck Being Humble: Why Self-Promotion Isn’t a Dirty Word”, and has also...
2023-09-191h 30The Uncensored Critic PodcastRose Ryan on Laban and Intimacy Co-Ordination | Part 2The return of Rose Ryan!Movement director, Intimacy Co-Ordinator, Laban Expert, Yoga Teacher and lover of the arts. Rose returns to the podcast to discuss her latest discoveries in the Laban realm and her new work as an intimacy co-ordinator. She discusses what working with actors in intimate scenes entails and how actors can feel comfortable in sex scenes on stage and screen. As well as, how it's completely up to the actor to decide how far they are willing to go. It's your choice no-one else's. Never...
2023-09-181h 15The Uncensored Critic PodcastDavid Punter on Gothic Literature and PoetryDavid Punter holds a BA, MA and PhD from Fitzwilliam College, Cambridge and is currently Professor of Poetry at the University of Bristol. He is one of the world leading experts in Gothic Literature and has worked in Universities across the UK and China.He has been long-listed for the Poetry Society's Annual Competition and short-listed for the Brian Dempsey Memorial Prize. His work encompasses a long list of academic achievements and publications in Gothic Literature, as well as in William Blake, Phillip Larkin, Post-Modernism and Post-Colonialism. More information about David...
2023-09-051h 37The Uncensored Critic PodcastClaire J. Loy on Getting an Agent and Actors Learning to Trust ThemselvesClaire J. Loy trained at the Bow Street Academy in Dublin and the Gaiety School of Acting with practitioner Tom Kibbe. Her credits include Casualty (BBC), Vikings Valhalla and Bodkin (Netflix), The Girl at the End of the Garden (Dyehouse Films), The Gates with Stephen Hall and John Rhys Davis, who some may know as “Gimli” in The Lord of the Rings, and many short films including “In Orbit”, written and directed by Katie McNeice. For that she was nominated for the Best Supporting Actress award at the Underground Cinema Awa...
2023-08-271h 34The Uncensored Critic PodcastRohan Carr on Theatre Automation and Working Behind the Scenes on A Little LifeRohan Carr works in Theatre Automation and Production across London's West End and the regions. He's another member of the GSA family graduating in Theatre Production, Stage and Production Management and has worked across some of the most popular theatre events of 2022/23. From Good, Lemons (x5) , and A Little Life at the Harold Pinter Theatre. Merrily We Roll Along at the Southwark PlayhouseConstellations at the Vaudeville TheatreMagic Goes Wrong at the Apollo Soon he'll be backstage on The Time Traveller's Wife also at the Apollo...
2023-08-171h 21The Uncensored Critic PodcastCharlie MacGechan on Pinter and Building Run At It ShoutingCharlie MacGechan is an actor, producer, entrepreneur and founder of "Run At It Shouting" (RAIS). A company that brings actors in front of the world's leading casting directors to give advice and helpful tips on their self tapes. As well as run workshops on Shakespeare, Harold Pinter, Comedy and Audition technique. For more information and upcoming workshops check out the website below. As an actor Charlie recently appeared in "We Die Young", directed by Lior Geller, for which he was nominated for the 2019 Mammoth Film Festival Prize for Best Actor. Other credits...
2023-08-1444 minThe Uncensored Critic PodcastHarry Burton on Harold Pinter | Part 2: No Man's LandThe return of Harry Burton! If it wasn't for Harry suggesting I recorded our last conversation about Harold Pinter I wouldn't have a podcast. Thank you Harry for not only your time but for giving me this platform!This time we turn our attention to Pinter's play "No Man's Land. Written in 1975, the play was recently dubbed as "mystifying as ever" by the Chicago Sun-Times. We follow Hirst and Spooner drinking whiskey in Hampsted one gloomy night. Do they know each other? Or are they playing a farcical game that's played amongst old...
2023-07-282h 01The Uncensored Critic PodcastRebecca Reaney on Movement | Part 2The return of Rebecca Reaney!Rebecca returns to the podcast to share more of her knowledge on movement and how integral it is to their process. Since we last spoke she has spent time in LA with the Identity School of Acting, shooting movement videos and discovering more about her craft. She shares what she's uncovered in the last year, how actors can mentally and physically prepare for demanding roles and her plans for the future. Thank you for joining me again Rebecca, always a pleasure! Check out her...
2023-07-071h 13The Uncensored Critic PodcastCaroline Sheen on Musical TheatreCaroline Sheen is an actress known for her appearances in some of the most well-known musicals of all time. Such as Les Miserables, Mamma Mia and Mary Poppins.Across her career she’s played Mary Poppins on the US Tour in 2011 winning the Helen Hayes Award for her performance, as well as both Eponine and Fantine in Les Miserables in London’s West End. Not to mention a fine Subway Sandwich commercial as well!She discusses her training at GSA, her process, some funny on stage moments, and what it takes to tackle the h...
2023-05-191h 14The Uncensored Critic PodcastCatherine McNamara on Applied Theatre⚠️ Trigger warning ⚠️: In this episode we discuss matters relating to CCE (Child Criminal Exploitation) and County Lives. Viewer and listener discretion is advised. Catherine holds a MA in Drama and Theatre from Royal Holloway and a PGCE in Drama from Central. As well as having been the course leader of the MA Applied Theatre at Central and a Head of School at the University of Portsmouth from 2019-2022, she’s been involved in projects such as the Wellcome Trust’s “Rethinking Sexology”, and has lead the “TransActing Project” with Central School of Speech of Drama and Gendered Intelligence. ...
2023-05-161h 17The Uncensored Critic PodcastRosie Sheehy on Romeo and Julie at the National TheatreRosie Sheehy trained at RADA graduating in 2015, and has already done some incredible work thus far. Working for the RSC, the Sherman Theatre and most recently, the National Theatre in London.Rosie recently finished Romeo and Julie a contemporary adaptation of Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet, written by the great Gary Owen. It played at the Sherman Theatre, the National and the Sherman again for the final weeks of the tour. Rosie takes me through the journey she's been on with the play, playing alongside Callum Scott Howells and the brilliance of Gary Owens' writing.
2023-05-031h 20The Uncensored Critic PodcastSeema Bowri on Verbatim Theatre and Film "Little English"Seema Bowri has worked across film, theatre and TV with roles in The Bill, Find the Light (directed by Abdullah Khan) and recently released film "Little English" released in March 2023. I worked with Seema at the National Theatre on a show called "My Country; a work in progress" in 2017, a verbatim show about the UK's reaction to the EU referendum result in 2016, known as "Brexit". Directed by Rufus Norris and written by Carol Ann Duffy, former UK poet laureate. Seema discusses how she and cast created the show from scratch, the impact of the show...
2023-04-271h 08The Uncensored Critic PodcastMax Perryment on Sound DesigningMax Perryment is a composer and sound designer whose written music for TV, theatre, radio, dance and commercials. As well as music for feature length documentaries for Apple TV and Amazon Prime. His work has been heard at the Old Vic (Jitney in 2022), Young Vic, The Globe, The Royal Court, Hampstead Theatre and the West End. He's also resident composer for contemporary dance company "Made by Katie Green" and theatre company "Parrot in the Tank". He discusses the role of the sound designer, how to generate music from listening to words and how...
2023-03-281h 18
The Uncensored Critic PodcastDeka Walmsley on Billy ElliotDeka is a great actor known for his role as Jackie Elliot in Lee Hall's musical adaptation of Billy Elliot with music by Elton John. He's worked extensively across theatre, film and TV with appearances in The Bastard Son and the Devil Himself on Netflix, Vera for ITV, and Dirty Water.In theatre he's appeared in Cyrano de Bergerac, Macbeth at the National Theatre, The Pitman Painters both in London and in New York, as well as Billy Elliot at the Victoria Palace Theatre. Deka talks about playing Jackie how he found him...
2023-03-231h 14
The Uncensored Critic PodcastAylam Orian on Method Acting and How It Isn't What We Think It IsAylam Orian is an actor known for Stargate Origins (series regular: Nazi villain Wilhelm Brücke), NCIS: Los Angeles, Code Black, The Informer, and Ford V. Ferrari starring Matt Damon and Christian Bale. While a student at the Strasberg Institute, Aylam was hired by Anna Strasberg to organize and preserve Lee Strasberg's extensive collections of materials on acting - a position he held for the next 9 years, before starting to teach there.Aylam talks about how "Method Acting" isn't what we think it is. The technique has been distorted by the media, being portrayed as an a...
2023-03-221h 19
The Uncensored Critic PodcastIlaria Mosca on Costume DesigningIlaria Mosca has worked in the costume department of some of the most successful shows across the industry. She holds a BA in Fashion from her studies in Napoli, and an MA in Fashion Design from the London College of Fashion. Some projects she's worked on include My Lady Jane and Hanna for Amazon Prime, The Great for Hulu and The Third Day for Sky Atlantic and HBO with Jude Law. She talks about what a day in the life of working in the costume department is like, how she liaisons with the director and wri...
2023-03-131h 01
The Uncensored Critic PodcastScott "Friendly Reminder" Tatum on How to Live your Best LifeScott Tatum is a pioneer for motivational and supportive messages across social media with his "Friendly Reminder's" which you'll be able to catch daily on Instagram. Scott talks me through his personal journey to get to where he is today and how he loves to help others with his videos.One of my favourite quotes of his is "sometimes the secret to having it all is knowing that already do". Stay tuned for Scott's brand new book "Friendly Reminders: Lessons from a Self-Care Savage" due to be released in the US and the re...
2023-03-061h 20
The Uncensored Critic PodcastAbdullah Khan on DirectingAbdullah Kahn is a director and filmmaker who at such a young age has already achieved so much in the film industry. At the age of 18 he was working on the sets of Star Wars: Rise of Skywalker, Fast and Furious: Hobbs and Shaw, and 1917. As well as, working for Neal Street Productions with Sam Mendes. In 2021 he founded his own production company Rosebud Films and has made short films such as Find the Light with George Mackay, and Path to Ecstacy with Mike Jibson, Louie Serkis, and myself! He is currently in pre...
2023-03-061h 10
The Uncensored Critic PodcastDoug Kerr on Graphic DesigningDoug Kerr is a graphic designer and has created a number of designs for books, events, exhibitions and theatre. He talks about what goes into the making of a design, the people he's collaborated with and his experience of creating the famous design for the play Prima Facie with Jodie Comer. Recently Doug won the WhatsOnStage Award for Best Graphic Design for that poster and will soon be flying to New York to attend its opening night. As well as to see his new updated design that has been made up of pictures of over a...
2023-02-281h 11
The Uncensored Critic PodcastFit2Talk’s Bobby Windebank and Steffan Lloyd-Evans on an Actor’s Fitness and LifestyleBobby and Steffan are behind the great Fit2Talk Podcast you’ll be able to find on Apple and Spotify.They are not only actors, but certified personal trainers who have a wealth of knowledge not only on acting, but on health and fitness as well.They discuss how you can balance going to the gym alongside acting work, and how a healthy diet doesn’t mean you should eat super-healthy all the time.Keep a lookout for their upcoming ebook about fitness and diet that will debunk the myths that surround workout rout...
2023-02-091h 15
The Uncensored Critic PodcastChristopher McElroen on Directing for TheatreChristopher McElroen is a director and founder of theatre companies The American Vicarious and Classic Theatre of Harlem based in Brooklyn in New York City. He creates work that reflects what unites and divides the population of the United States through productions such as The Invisible Man and The Debate: Baldwin vs Buckley the latter you'll be able to catch at the Stone Nest Theatre in London's West End this year. Christopher has also been a guest speaker at some of the most illustrious institutions in the world from Pace University, Stanford, and New York Un...
2023-02-0754 min
The Uncensored Critic PodcastAlex Gage on Training in Musical Theatre, Kinky Boots, and Life Performing on a CruiseAlexander (Alex) Gage is a musician, writer and performer with a passion for musical theatre. He trained in musical theatre at the Guildford School of Acting, and was involved in shows from Guys and Dolls, My Fair Lady and appearing at the Olivier Awards at the Royal Festival Hall in 2016. He talks about his experience of drama school, how you learn the discipline, proactiveness and diligence to be involved in musical theatre. As well as how to take it step by step and don't be afraid of making mistakes. In addition to his rec...
2023-01-211h 09
The Uncensored Critic PodcastSteven Calvert on Life before and after Drama SchoolSteven is an actor and writer who also trained at the Guildford School of Acting.He’s been involved in a number of projects across the UK, notably in The White Handkerchief musical based around the events of a Bloody Sunday in Derry, to The School of Good and Evil on Netflix.As well as writing his own short film Chasing which is available to watch here: https://vimeo.com/393435491Steven would like to give a shoutout to cinematographer Elisa Matvejeva for her support on this short film.Elisa's Instagram: @xvdesire...
2023-01-112h 17
The Uncensored Critic PodcastThank You 🙏Quick message to say thank you very much for this year! Thank you to all of you who listened or watched the podcast it means so much. Thanks to you guys The Uncensored Critic Podcast was in the top 25% most globally shared podcasts of 2022 being heard in over 20 countries. In 2022 streams grew by 710%, listeners increased by 404%, and followers were up 379%. Official stats from #SpotifyWrapped 2022. Crazy.If any of you have any guest or topic requests email me: olliegower10@gmail.com Or message me on Instagram:@ollietheuncensoredcriticYou'll get...
2022-12-3102 minThe Uncensored Critic PodcastAbdullah Khan on DirectingAt such a young age Abdullah Khan has already achieved so much in the film industry.
At the age of 18 he was working on the sets of Star Wars, Fast and Furious: Hobbs and Shaw, and 1917.
As well as, working for Neal Street Productions with Sam Mendes.
In 2021 he founded his own production company Rosebud Films and has made short films such as Find the Light with George Mackay, and Path to Ecstacy with Mike Jibson, Louie Serkis, and myself!
Great talk about how you can make a great picture.
2022-12-201h 23
The Uncensored Critic PodcastAndy Johnson on How to Get into Drama SchoolAndy is an actor, writer, director and comedian. As an actor and writer he starred in BAFTA award winning BBC show Short Change and has also won a Fringe First award among many others for his work on the Edinburgh Fringe. On top of this he's the author of one of the best audition advice books available The Excellent Audition Guide. Link to buy your copy is below, it's also available as an Ebook. https://www.nickhernbooks.co.uk/andy-johnson Andy has helped over 300 aspiring actors to get into top drama schools...
2022-12-121h 04
The Uncensored Critic PodcastDavid Grindley on R.C. Sherriff's Journey's End and Winning a Tony on BroadwayDavid Grindley is a theatre director that has been at the helm of many shows across the UK and the world.One of his most celebrated shows is R.C. Sherriff's play Journey's End set in the trenches in the final stages of WWI. A truly excellent play that David has directed multiple times.He's directed it in the West End and on Broadway in 2007, where he won a Tony award for the Best Revival of a play. He talks about how he discovered the play, how to play tension, and how actors f...
2022-11-251h 18
The Uncensored Critic PodcastKate Godfrey on deconstructing Shakespeare and Using your Voice in the TheatreKate Godfrey is a voice and dialect coach, as well as Shakespeare mastermind. She's been involved in some extraordinary work from working at the RSC, across the West End with Mark Rylance, and recently working on Prima Facie with Jodie Comer at the Harold Pinter Theatre. She discusses how you can tackle Shakespeare from looking at how the text is written, and how you can find new life in a well known speech and make it your own.So happy to have her on the show, thank you Kate for your time really en...
2022-11-161h 00
The Uncensored Critic PodcastChris and Tom Godwin on The Woman in BlackChris and Tom Godwin are actors with a supreme wealth of experience on stage, screen and television.They were the first father and son to play the roles of Arthur Kipps and The Actor in the West End in the outstanding play The Woman in Black. They both take me through what's it like to scare an audience, working with director Robin Herford, and how rewarding it is to perform such a brilliant text. Thank you both for your time and your generosity to share with me your experience of this play and yo...
2022-10-201h 11
The Uncensored Critic PodcastMark Stratford on The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll & Mr HydeMark is an actor, writer, dramaturg, and founder of Stratford Productions based in Hertfordshire. His first one man show The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde, adapted from the novel by Robert Louis Stevenson, played to sold out audiences both at the Watford and Brighton fringe in 2020 and 2021. His second show Drama King based on the life of famous actor-manager William Charles Macready premiered at both fringes as well. Mark has appeared in West End shows, national and foreign tours, reparatory theatre, pantomimes, as well as across Tv, Film and Radio.
2022-10-071h 10
The Uncensored Critic PodcastAdam Boardman on Life on Tour with Les Miserables and Keeping the FaithAdam is an actor, singer and public speaker who is currently on the UK tour of Les Miserables. He's worked with the RSC, BBC, and appeared in ad's for Tesco and Google.Adam offers some great insight into the life on the road, how to organise yourself when on tour with a show, and shares some stories from his experiences up and down the country, as well as in Europe. Great conversation with another member of the GSA family about keeping the faith after you leave drama school and how you shouldn't worry about taking t...
2022-09-271h 13
The Uncensored Critic PodcastTom Berkeley and Ross White on FilmmakingTom Berkeley and Ross White are Academy Award and BAFTA award-winning filmmakers. They met after completing the BA Acting programme in 2014 and have since set up their own production company Split Second Productions. Which is for everyone from actors, musical theatre performers, and those interested in technical theatre. Their experience in playwriting has seen them be shortlisted for the Bruntwood Prize, Papatango Prize and Kenneth Branagh Award for New Drama writing. They transitioned into filming in 2020 and co-founded the Belfast-based production company Floodlight Pictures which is the vehicle to drive their own projects. Such as two...
2022-08-081h 03
The Uncensored Critic PodcastJack Ellis on The Crucible, Richard III, and working with Sam MendesJack is an extraordinary actor whose worked across stage and TV with some of the best people in the business. We discuss his involvement in Sam Mendes' epic global touring production of Shakespeare's Richard III. How he approaches Shakespeare's text, how to find the meaning, and important it is to actors. As Jack says, keep yourself fit with Shakespeare!Also his experience working alongside Sam Mendes, how he conducts the rehearsal room, and how he works with actors to bring his image to life.In addition, we also touch on his involvement in t...
2022-07-211h 21
The Uncensored Critic PodcastKatie Crooks on Hypnotherapy and Conquering Mental BoundariesKatie is a trained musician, actress, dancer, and hypnotherapist who works closely with actors, and creative people of all calibre's. This episode was such a great and interesting exploration about what hypnotherapy can do. Helping us conquer any mental boundaries that we as human beings carry around with us in a relaxed, judgement-free zone. Guiding us from burden to liberation in our minds and bodies.I share some of my own personal burdens I've carried with me unnecessarily and what I've done, with the help of others, to help bring down those boundaries. I, like y...
2022-06-181h 32
The Uncensored Critic PodcastMichael Hoffman on DirectingMichael is one of the most prestigious and distinguished directors, writers, producers, and actors that has worked in Hollywood.Michael takes me through the process of directing, his experiences of working in the editing room, behind the camera, and working with some of Hollywood's elite, such as Robert Downey Jr, Kiefer Sutherland, Stanley Tucci, and Christian Bale to name a few.Also, he shares his advice to actors coming into auditions, how it's YOUR space, and you have a God given right to be there to show what you love to do! Great s...
2022-06-131h 26
The Uncensored Critic PodcastRebecca Reaney on Movement and the Importance of ActorsRebecca is a movement director, actress, and all round lover of the arts. She specialises in movement sequences for screen and stage. Rebecca and I both worked together at GSA on our public show Widows by Ariel Dorfman and Tony Kushner, and it was a pleasure to learn from her techniques and rehearsal activities to help myself and my peers immerse ourselves in the play, and find the inner journey of our characters.She is also incredibly passionate about just how important actors are to themselves and to the world with what they ca...
2022-06-111h 19
The Uncensored Critic PodcastMike Jibson on the Actor's Journey and performing in Hamilton in the West EndMike Jibson in an incredible actor and another member of the GSA family, and since graduating he has worked across stage, screen and television with some of the best people in the business. From Lin-Manuel Miranda, Sam Mendes and Anne Hathaway to name a few!We both worked together recently on the upcoming short film A Path to Ecstasy with Louie Serkis, son of Andy! Filmed in Casino Nightclub in Guildford, directed by Abdullah Khan, due to be released later this year. Mike talks about the journey of an actor, the countless auditions, the success i...
2022-05-211h 33
The Uncensored Critic PodcastAndrew Davidson on Meisner and Script AnalysisAndrew is a director and composer who has been involved in a variety of projects across the artistic industry. From plays, musicals, cabaret, opera, and ballet he is a man who loves the arts!I've had the pleasure of being taught by Andrew at GSA, looking at the play Rabbit Hole by David Lindsay-Abaire, how to breakdown the text, learn lines mechanically, but not perform mechanically. Perform with one thought to the next, engaging and listening to your scene partner, and live in the moment without wondering what your next line is. Andrew di...
2022-05-141h 23
The Uncensored Critic PodcastChris Palmer on the Human Voice and its PowerChris is an inspirational voice teacher as well as person, and it was great to hear about her journey working with the voice. She is currently the Head of Voice at the Guildford School of Acting, with BA and MA's in Advanced Voice Studies. She works with actors, singers, and even politicians about how they can use their voices to their best effect. Her practice is all about learning from one another, what you can gain from each other from listening and observing from each others voices and traits in the rehearsal room, or indeed any...
2022-04-181h 13
The Uncensored Critic PodcastDan Canham on A Monster Calls, creating Movement for Theatre, and Film ProductionDan is a movement director with a wealth of experience in the industry as a filmmaker and especially as a movement director. He has worked with Sally Cookson on A Monster Calls (Bristol and London Old Vic) and Jane Eyre (Bristol Old Vic and National Theatre). As well as, Kneehigh, Punchdrunk, DV8, and Fabulous Beast companies. He also has his own theatre company Still House, links to his and the company's work is below. Dan takes me through his inspirations to be involved in movement, working together with others, and how to overcome bad days in...
2022-04-071h 14
The Uncensored Critic PodcastMatt Coulton on Jacques LeCoq and the Neutral MaskMatthew (Matt) Coulton is an actor and movement director with a passion for physical theatre.He trained at Central School of Speech and Drama in Collaborative and Devised Theatre graduating in 2014, and since has been a part of several movement influenced shows and theatre companies. Including Chester Storyhouse, Leicester Curve and BBC TV and Radio.He's part of projects here in the UK as well as in Sweden with his own theatre company Artistic Rebellion where he acts as co-founder. Most recently the companies' work has been on display at the Varberg Festival in 2019.
2021-12-1658 min
The Uncensored Critic PodcastJuna N Joey on Country Music and Musical InspirationsJuna N Joey have a unique country sound that makes their music have a lasting impression on you, and they are bound to do great things.
Having found success at such a young age, Juna N Joey have performed on both sides of the Atlantic, alongside Twinnie, with Nickelodeon and America's Got Talent.
They talk me through their inspirations to be a musician and what they want to achieve in the future.
Furthermore, they treat me to a track from their upcoming EP called Something Good To Miss at the end of the sh...
2021-10-2054 min
The Uncensored Critic PodcastAdrian Schiller on Arthur Miller's The Crucible and working with Yaël FarberAdrian Schiller is an actor with many credits that stand across Film, TV and Theatre to his name. He's worked on video games to Shakespeare, and has a great knowledge of the actor's process and the industry itself.It was great to talk to him about his role in the astonishing 2014 production of The Crucible, directed by Yael Farber where he played Reverend John Hale.He discusses Hale's journey across the play, how his beliefs are challenged, and how he feels responsibility to the injustice that occurs in the text. The play written as an...
2021-10-091h 00
The Uncensored Critic PodcastRose Ryan on Laban, the "Efforts", and the Importance of MovementRose is a movement teacher at GSA (Guildford School of Acting) whose passion for Rudolf Laban's work is unparalleled. Having trained at the Laban centre, as well as studied MA movement at the Central School of Speech and Drama, she has become fascinated by the vast potential our bodies have in the non-verbal realm, and how we can transform ourselves physically. She takes me through his "Efforts", the various movement exercises that he asked his actors to engage in to find their emotional and spiritual selves. His work pioneers movement and just how crucial it is to...
2021-09-2558 min
The Uncensored Critic PodcastSabina "Sabs" Netherclift on Jacques LecoqSabina "Sabs" Netherclift is a teaching fellow at GSA with over 20 years of movement experience. She has worked with many companies including the Young Vic, Central and the English National Opera.Her primary teaching point at GSA is the work of movement director Jacque Lecoq, having trained with the man himself in Paris. She schools me on his foundations, the way he worked with his students, and how you can create anything with movement!Lecoq was devoted to observing the natural world, its elements and movements. He also used masks to st...
2021-08-091h 02
The Uncensored Critic PodcastStu Goodwin on A Monster Calls and Devised TheatreStu was part of the simply astonishing cast and creative team that put together the spellbinding play A Monster Calls that premiered at the Bristol Old Vic and transferred to the London Old Vic in 2018. Stu shares with me the process of building a show essentially from scratch, working with Sally Cookson, and how devising needn't be something to be scared of for an actor! So much covered about the play, devising, and how saying YES to things goes a long way! Oliver GowerSpotlight Link: https://www.spo...
2021-08-041h 26
The Uncensored Critic PodcastLaura Elphinstone on Chernobyl and Devised TheatreLaura and I worked together on the National Theatre's "My Country; a work in progress" and I feel proud to call her a friend as well as a fellow actor. Laura has vast experiences in theatre, TV, and film, since our time at the National, she has worked on BBC's Des, Line of Duty, and HBO's Chernobyl, and Game of Thrones. She's also worked at the Bridge Theatre, and another production at the National, Jane Eyre, in collaboration with the Bristol Old Vic. That's just a small handful of her incredible career to date! La...
2021-07-221h 06
The Uncensored Critic PodcastBen Furey on Voice, Dialects, and working on BroadwayBen Furey is voice and dialect coach currently teaching at the Guildford School of Acting (GSA).His credentials include working with actors of all ages in the USA and UK, coaching them on accents, vocal ability, and engagement with text. He has taught children in Matilda to speak Russian, and young American actors in Billy Elliot to speak with a Geordie accent! As well as coaching an actress to safely scream eight times a week!It was so interesting to hear Ben talk about his experience on both sides of the Atlantic, the s...
2021-07-171h 04
The Uncensored Critic PodcastHannah Couzens on Photography and Capturing the MomentHannah is a multi-award winning photographer based in St. Albans, Hertfordshire, and she talks me through the various elements of photography in its various forms. She has a wealth of experience from qualifying into The British Institute of Photography at 19 years of age to being in the running to win the National Business Women's award in 2019. She has shot all over the world, working with actors, athletes and everyone in between. She talks about her inspiration and her obsession with light and how it helps to paint a picture without a canvas or an easel, bu...
2021-06-231h 03The Uncensored Critic PodcastAlex Sedgley Talent Agent Curtis BrownSomething slightly different in this episode, I was on a zoom call with the lovely Alex Sedgley from agency Curtis Brown who represent people such as Stanley Tucci and Daniel Mays.
She answers questions and gives advice on how to contact agents to get representation, and how to work with one when you get signed up.
Credit to Casting Connections for organising this call, and for allowing me to upload the recording.
Apologies for the sound quality throughout the episode.
Oliver Gower
SPOTLIGHT PIN: 9097-9058-5261...
2021-06-141h 54
The Uncensored Critic PodcastAshten York on Performance Inspiration, Singing, and Passion to be a PerformerAshten is a singer, actress, and dancer, she graduated from the Guildford School of Acting in 2017 with a BA in Musical Theatre. Since her graduation she has started her own singing business Ashten York Singing which you can find on Instagram and her website, links to her pages are below.
She also has toured around Europe as a member of the performance crew onboard Viking cruises, and currently she is embarking on her second tour with the company, where she will premiere her new one woman show, comprised of songs that have touched her heart. I know f...
2021-06-1159 min
The Uncensored Critic PodcastChristian Patterson on Acting and Working at the National TheatreChristian and I both worked together at the National Theatre on a piece called "My Country; a work in progress", a verbatim play that centred around the result of the EU referendum of 2016 under the guidance of Rufus Norris, and Poet Laureate, at the time, Carol Ann Duffy. An experience that both of us treasure to this very day. It was a genuine pleasure to hear Christian's stories about his early life and work, to the challenges of working as an actor, and working at the National Theatre by my side. Oliver Go...
2021-05-141h 17
The Uncensored Critic PodcastDavid Barnett on BrechtDavid Barnett is currently Professor of Drama at the University of York.David's primary research point is the work of Brecht, and the Berliner Ensemble, he has written countless journal entries and articles about the foundations of Brecht's practice. Telling the reader, performer, and director, how you can apply them to a production, and for that matter, any existing play, and come up with a different angle depending upon the social contradictions that are hiding beneath the surface. We talk about three foundations of Brecht's work, GESTUS, HALTUNG, and, VERFREMDUNG. This con...
2021-04-301h 15
The Uncensored Critic PodcastSimon Furness on Anton Chekhov's Uncle VanyaSimon is an actor and Chekhov specialist. We talk everything from Simon's earliest memories of Chekhov at drama school, to discussing Chekhov's yin-yang approach to life as a man of science, yet has a spiritual attachment to him at the same time. We discuss Anton Chekhov's Uncle Vanya, and how Chekhov's influence was very much with us during the pandemic, and how he can capture life's humorous moments, even in the darkest of times. Both these things and everything in between makes Chekhov one of the most celebrated playwrights of our age.
2021-04-131h 12
The Uncensored Critic PodcastHarry Burton on Harold PinterWelcome to The Uncensored Critic Podcast!Thank you so much for tuning in and listening to my show.For my first episode I had the pleasure of talking to long-term collaborator, and friend of Harold Pinter, Harry Burton. We discuss everything from Pinter's early years growing up in Hackney, living through post-WW2 London, to finding out the best way to tackle Pinter's work in performance. We take a close look at "The Caretaker", first performed in 1960, tells the story of Aston, recovering from electric shock therapy, who brings a random tramp ho...
2021-04-021h 21