Shows
The WhatsOnStage PodcastWill social media be the end of theatre critics? And are there too many standing ovations?It's a two-part episode as Alex and Sarah reunite after a few weeks out in the wild! Social media is all abuzz with clips of Rachel Zegler's performance of "Don't Cry For Me Argentinia" in Evita at The London Palladium. The only ones not talking about it? Theatre critics – who have to wait until early July to give their verdicts on the show. With weeks of embargoes, are critics having a tough time either cutting through the social media noise, or even being able to say anything before a show's initial excitement has died down? Separately, Sarah has some thoughts on...2025-06-1843 minThe WhatsOnStage PodcastSpecial guest Sonia Friedman talks career-firsts, the hardest shows she's worked on and why Broadway's model is brokenDescription: With Tony Award-winning record breaker Stereophonic in previews in the West End, chief critic Sarah Crompton and managing editor Alex Wood hopped over to Sonia Friedman Productions offices to talk to Friedman in a wide-ranging interview. Topics included what makes new writing so enticing, why the Broadway model is so hard and why Broadway box office reporting is causing headaches all round. Plus how she's trying to find the next generation of audiences with Hugh Jackman, and why the future of UK theatre concerns her! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2025-06-0637 minThe WhatsOnStage PodcastBonus episode: A gigantic new London theatre made for musicals, with special guest Rosemary SquireIn a bonus midweek episode, WhatsOnStage’s editor-in-chief Alex Wood made the trip to the gigantic Olympia event space, home to the new Olympia Theatre. Currently in construction, the Olympia is due to open to the public in 2027. Alex had a word with Rosemary Squire, the co-founder of operator Trafalgar Entertainment, about what theatregoers can expect from the 1575-seat venue: including 100 toilets, a huge playing space and top class amenities. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2025-06-0410 minThe WhatsOnStage PodcastA final theatre season to rule them allIn the week director Rupert Goold announced his farewell programme at the influential Almeida Theatre, Sarah and Alex talk about why his choices reflect his bold approach - and outline the excitements in store. And as Patti Lupone stirs controversy, can the old-fashioned, no holds barred interview survive? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2025-05-3032 minThe WhatsOnStage PodcastWhy British theatres are on the brink of going bustAs a new report highlights the crisis in British theatres, Sarah and Alex reveal the depth of the difficulties caused by standstill subsidy and rising costs and in particular the challenges for regional theatre and touring Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2025-05-2342 minThe WhatsOnStage PodcastHow do you stage an unfinished musical?Sarah Crompton and Alex Wood dive headfirst into Stephen Sondheim and David Ives' Here We Are, wading through the history and themes of the show as it makes its European premiere at the National Theatre. After that, they swim through a wellspring of topics including the Young Vic's exciting new season (with four of Sarah's favourite directors involved) and Cynthia Erivo's fang-tastic West End return in Dracula. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2025-05-1645 minThe WhatsOnStage PodcastThe best shows to see this summer - from Stereophonic to Jesus Christ SuperstarSarah and Alex get out their diaries to do some planning for some of the most exciting events in the months ahead from Eugene O’Neill to Shucked and from the reopening of Theatr Clwyd to a late Shakespeare revival in Stratford Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2025-05-0935 minThe WhatsOnStage PodcastThe National Theatre begins a huge new chapter – but what should audiences expect?Sarah Crompton and Alex Wood head to the National Theatre to hear the venue's new director Indhu Rubasingham unveil her bumper season of productions, mapping out plans right the way through to 2027. With huge star names like Paul Mescal, Nicola Coughlan, Lesley Manville and Letitia Wright slated for appearances, there's plenty for audiences to get excited about. But more than that – what does Rubasingham's approach and character mean for the future of the NT? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2025-04-2938 minThe WhatsOnStage PodcastGreatest theatre feuds in history, warm-up games and swings, covers and more decoded in our latest Q&A episode Alex and Sarah return for their third Q&A episode, this time diving into the murky depths of theatre feuds and backstage friction. They then turn to the calmer and cheerier waters of warm up drama games, Paddington the Musical, set to make a splash in the West End, and the truly incredible role played by swings, covers and more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2025-04-2542 minThe WhatsOnStage PodcastEverything you didn't see at the Olivier AwardsAlex returns from sabbatical to report from behind the scenes at the Olivier awards where Giant, Fiddler on the Roof, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button and The Years were among the big winners. He and Sarah discuss what the prizes reveal about London theatre, the artistic directors making waves - and announce a couple of shows that might be in the running for awards next year Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2025-04-1137 minThe WhatsOnStage PodcastWhat’s hot on Broadway?In a special US based episode Sarah talks to David Gordon editor in chief of TheaterMania about the shows opening this spring. From Denzel Washington to Succession stars Kieran Culkin and Sarah Snook, to George Clooney there is some major star power lighting up the stage. Plus new musicals like Boop. And the Brits are coming with Operation Mincemeat. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2025-03-1440 minThe WhatsOnStage PodcastWhy are there never enough loos in theatres and do shows close in previews?In our second question and answer episode Alex and Sarah discuss pressing topics. Why’s it called a green room? What does an ahistorical setting add to a show? And why don’t box offices sell single seats? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2025-03-0748 minThe WhatsOnStage PodcastWe need to talk about the Oliviers nominationsFrom Oscars to Oliviers! In a special mid-week episode, Sarah and Alex respond to the Olivier Awards nominations, which were led this year by the record-matching Fiddler on the Roof at Regent's Park Open Air Theatre. But were there any snubs, shocks or surprises? And who might end up winning on the night next month? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2025-03-0539 minThe WhatsOnStage PodcastAre stars ruining - or saving - the theatre?Tom Hiddleston, Hayley Atwell, Rami Malek and Brie Larson are the latest movie stars to fill the West End stage. But does their presence help or hinder? This week Sarah and Alex mull over a question that’s been dominating the theatre news. And talk about Rupert Goold’s exciting new Hamlet with Luke Thallon and Nancy Carroll as Gertrude. And, as a bonus, offer their Olivier predictions with special reference to Adrien Brody. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2025-02-2845 minThe WhatsOnStage PodcastWhy is everyone obsessed with awards?Awards season is in full swing – so Sarah and Alex rope in TheaterMania's editor-in-chief David Gordon for a gallivant around the world of Oscar-nominated films. From Wicked's witches to Conclave's cardinals, through to Emilia Perez's imploding Oscar campaign and Anora's meteoric rise to fame, the WhatsOnStage Podcast has dipped its toe into the film scene... Can Wallace and Gromit triumph? Is Adrien Brody's win a foregone conclusion? Closer to home, the trio discuss the WhatsOnStage Awards, with David cramming in seven shows while flying over to London. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2025-02-2140 minThe WhatsOnStage PodcastCan critics spoil shows?Sarah and Alex went together to see Inside Number Nine Stage/Fright and give their verdict from the stalls. Plus Alex takes us behind the scenes - and under the stage - for the WhatsOnStage Awards and both pick the shows to look out for from new season announcements at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre, Shakespeare’s Globe and Hampstead.This episode is sponsored by The May Fair, a five star hotel in London’s most iconic neighbourhood. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2025-02-0735 minThe WhatsOnStage PodcastSpecial guests Daniel Evans and Tamara Harvey on the RSC's gigantic plans for the yearJoined by two famed artistic leaders, podcast hosts Sarah Crompton and Alex Wood discuss the RSC's exciting plans for the coming year - including a new stage version of The BFG, the transfer of Broadway hit Fat Ham, a football-focussed Much Ado About Nothing, Somerset Maugham's The Constant Wife (boldly reimagined by Laura Wade) and a deluge of tantalising productions. Oh, and, a large amount of chat about Chiltern Railways. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2025-01-2935 minThe WhatsOnStage PodcastThe greatest stage disastersSarah and Alex look back at some terrible theatrical fails and ask what they have in common. What unites Peter O’Toole’s Macbeth and Shogun:The Musical? Are there lessons that can prevent shows failing? And what did Anthony Hopkins learn from an early nightmare? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2025-01-2442 minThe WhatsOnStage PodcastThe future of West End musicals, AI reviews and Michael Sheen's next moveSarah and Alex blast away the January blues by battling through a deluge of theatre news – from the West End transfer of Stereophonic to Michael Sheen's new Welsh National Theatre. Beyond that, Sarah has thoughts on the freshly opened hit shows Titanique and Oliver!, leading to discussions on the future of new musicals in the West End. Alighting briefly on the subject of artificial intelligence and AI reviews, they also discuss some of their favourite screen openings of the month - including Adrien Brody-led The Brutalist and Robbie Williams monkey musical biopic Better Man. Who said January started slowly? Ho...2025-01-1740 minThe WhatsOnStage PodcastBritain’s most haunted theatres, ghost lights, the future of the National and stage size headaches In our first question and answer episode, Sarah and Alex answer your queries. What does break a leg mean? Are there any good shows featuring puppets coming up? Will the National Theatre change when Indhu Rubasingham takes over? And much more Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2025-01-1040 minThe WhatsOnStage PodcastWill 2025 be a game-changing year for theatre?With Stephen Sondheim’s last musical, Michael Shannon and Ruth Wilson teaming up, Evita returning to the West End, a bumper year at the National Theatre and Gary Oldman’s return to the stage where he started his career, Sarah and Alex continue their round up of the best theatrical offerings round the UK in 2025! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2025-01-0235 minThe WhatsOnStage PodcastTop tips for shows to see in 2025 - part oneFrom a new Hamlet to Jonathan Bailey as Richard II, or from Cate Blanchett and Emma Corrin in Chekhov to Brie Larson and Rami Malek in contrasting Greek tragedies, Sarah and Alex take a look at some of the best British theatre has to offer in 2025 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2025-01-0131 minThe WhatsOnStage PodcastIs Wicked the best stage-to-screen movie? What might beat it?As the musical Wicked becomes a big screen sensation, Sarah and Alex talk about the challenges and pleasures of transferring a stage show to a movie format. And list their all time favourites from Brando’s Streetcar Named Desire to Mamma Mia! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2024-12-2729 minThe WhatsOnStage PodcastThe best movies about theatreWith the release of Sing Sing, a film about the power of theatre in prison, in time for the awards season, Sarah and Alex chose their top three backstage dramas. From Synedoche, New York to Birdman to Tick, Tick….Boom! there’s a lot to discuss. And we know we’ve left some out! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2024-12-2529 minThe WhatsOnStage PodcastWhat are the best stage shows of 2024?As the theatrical year comes to an end with The Tempest, Sarah and Alex look back on the hits of the last 12 months from The Years to Fiddler on the Roof, from Oedipus to Weather Girl. With honourable mentions multiple musicals with very long titles. And Oliver! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2024-12-2036 minThe WhatsOnStage PodcastThe ultimate theatre stocking fillersAl Pacino, Hadestown, Sunset Boulevard, a new Sondheim deepdive, Lin-Manuel Miranda and more are among Sarah and Alex’s top books and vinyls for Christmas gifts this year. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2024-12-1342 minThe WhatsOnStage PodcastThe Sex Education effectIn a new episode, Sarah and Alex mull on the National Theatre's bold new take on Oscar Wilde's The Importance of Being Earnest led by Sex Education and Doctor Who star Ncuti Gatwa. This leads them on to a wider discussion about the brilliant success of casting directors in guiding top talent from the stage to the screen – and then back to the stage. Speaking of casting directors, the WhatsOnStage Awards nominees were unveiled this week, with the casting category being one of many chock full of top stage and creative talent. Alex and Sarah reflect on how the awards ha...2024-12-0633 minThe WhatsOnStage PodcastSanta vs Scrooge: top Christmas shows for all tastesAlex takes the role of Santa and Sarah finds her inner Scrooge to round up the top Xmas fare whether your mood is full of joy or melancholy - or a bit of both. It’s a podcast episode wrapped in tinsel with mistletoe on top! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2024-11-2934 minThe WhatsOnStage PodcastNoël Coward was an angry young manOn the eve of A Marvellous Party, a star-filled gala to celebrate Noël Coward, Sarah Crompton talks to producer Julian Bird and Coward’s biographer Oliver Soden about Coward’s importance today. They discuss the range of his talent as a playwright, songwriter, screen writer, diarist and poet and why the image of him as a comfortable man in a dressing gown couldn’t be further from the truth. Did you know that he coined the word gay or that there were people storming out of his plays because he was so shocking? It’s all part of realising that he is...2024-11-0832 minThe WhatsOnStage PodcastWill the West End rule over Broadway in 2025?This week, Sarah and Alex turn their attention to the Great White Way – something that a whole raft of West End productions seem to be doing at the moment. With Operation Mincemeat, Stranger Things: The First Shadow and Tammy Faye set to join Sunset Boulevard and The Hills of California over in New York this Tony Awards season, all the signs are there… Closer to home, The Lion King’s 25th anniversary provided a poignant moment of reflection. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2024-10-2532 minThe WhatsOnStage PodcastLondon theatre enters its tragic eraAs Robert Icke tackles Oedipus and Alexander Zeldin reinterprets Antigone as The Other Place, Alex and Sarah talk about the ways Greek tragedies speak to our modern age - and why great actors such as Mark Strong, Lesley Manville, Emma D’Arcy and Tobias Menzies are signing up to star. Plus: And what does it all have to do with Lin-Manuel Miranda and Eisa Davis’ new musical? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2024-10-1831 minThe WhatsOnStage PodcastLook back in anger - or dismay?Theatres at the moment are working like time machines, whisking audiences back to the 1950s as a new generation of directors explore the work of the past. Sarah and Alex explore the revivals from Look Back in Anger and Roots at the Almeida to Waiting for Godot starring Ben Whishaw and Lucian Msamati Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2024-10-1130 minThe WhatsOnStage PodcastGhastly or a joy? End of an era at the National TheatreSarah and Alex report from behind the scenes of the press conference at which the retiring artistic director announced his final season of work. What was the mood - and what do we think of his choices of work as he reaches the end of a decade in the hot seat? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2024-09-2728 minThe WhatsOnStage PodcastThe wonder of Ian McKellenThe release of The Critic, a new film starring Ian McKellen and written by Patrick Marber prompts Sarah and Alex to discuss McKellen’s passion for theatre, the fortitude of his generation of actors - and the changing face of critics. Are they really this nasty? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2024-09-2026 minThe WhatsOnStage PodcastWhat happens when critics get it wrong?Sarah and Alex lift the curtain on the complicated moment when a critic starts to wonder whether they are on the wrong side of history - and confess to a few reviews they’d like to rewrite Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2024-09-0632 minThe WhatsOnStage PodcastWhat are the unmissable shows this autumn?After a summer of Scottish trips, Sarah and Alex are now back and ready for the start of the autumn. What a season to look forward to! With shows across the nation piquing their interest, here's what can't be missed for theatre fans up and down the UK over the course of the next few months – including productions in Sheffield, Leeds, Chichester, the West End and beyond. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2024-08-3039 minThe WhatsOnStage PodcastSpecial guest Francesca Moody talks Fleabag, Fringe and the secret to stage successIn this special episode recorded from both sides of the Scottish border, Alex and Sarah talk to special guest producer Francesca Moody as she completes another bumper season at the Edinburgh Fringe, all while also transferring smash-hit musical Kathy and Stella Solve a Murder to the West End. With shows like Fleabag and Baby Reindeer to her name, Moody spills the beans on why she’s so keen to stage work at the festival every year. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2024-08-2334 minThe WhatsOnStage PodcastOur favourite musical revivalsFinally, a reunion! Alex and Sarah are back in the same room after many weeks apart to catch up on their latest theatre outings - to the Almeida, Chichester Festival Theatre, the London Palladium, the Edinburgh Fringe and beyond. Then, down to business: the duo pick their favourite musical revivals from across the years. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2024-08-1632 minThe WhatsOnStage PodcastWho wins at Edinburgh?Alex reports from the Edinburgh Festival where there's an American invasion, a lot of producers trying out new shows, a few rising stars, and not many vegetables. But who is making a killing and who is losing out? Plus, Sarah visits the Regent's Park Open Air Theatre for a fabulous production of Fiddler On the Roof which makes the most of the variables of theatre outside. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2024-08-0939 minThe WhatsOnStage PodcastFrom Edinburgh Fringe to world domination?As the Edinburgh Festival begins, Sarah and Alex talk about their memories of festivals past - from great shows such as Fleabag!, Six and Baby Reindeer, to disasters, miseries and the rain.Is the Edinburgh Festival still really a hotbed for new talent or are prices and rents simply too high for the truly unknown to thrive? And what part did the Fringe play in the end of Alex's career as a playwright Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2024-07-2634 minThe WhatsOnStage PodcastWhat happens when a show loses its star?In a week of shock substitutions Alex and Sarah talk about James Corden at the Old Vic, Justine Mitchell at the Almeida and the way that history of theatre is filled with understudies who become the star. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2024-07-1232 minThe WhatsOnStage PodcastIs Andrew Lloyd Webber cool now?With a new production of Starlight Express taking over the Wembley Troubadour and Jamie Lloyd's radical Sunset Boulevard due to open on Broadway, Sarah and Alex ask whether the British composer is having a renaissance. Plus: does the seat you sit in change your feelings about a show? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2024-07-0533 minThe WhatsOnStage PodcastAre musicals manipulative?Alex has been singing along to Taylor Swift and Sarah has been on a musical theatre adventure with London Theatre at Sea. Which got us thinking about the power of song and how it makes people feel. Why does that make musicals such a potent force and are our emotions being played on - with special reference to Ghost Quartet, Dear Evan Hansen and Next to Normal Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2024-06-2827 minThe WhatsOnStage PodcastTonys special: Light in a troubling time for Broadway + Sondheim's supremecy cementedIn the second WhatsOnStage podcast, Sarah is literally all at sea but still finds time to talk to Alex about the most significant awards in American theatre - and how new thinking and some British input is changing Broadway. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2024-06-1833 min
The WhatsOnStage Podcast(ATASTTC) Food on stage - and guests for the dream dinner partyNancy and Sarah discuss their attitudes to food on stage and off. Does Nancy eat before a show? Does Sarah write hungry or stuffed? And are there perilous foodstuffs that you might want to avoid on stage? Plus: who would they both invite to their dream dinner parties? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2024-05-2044 min
The WhatsOnStage Podcast(ATASTTC) Last word on the Oliviers - and two new plays about friendshipSarah and Nancy have been watching the Oliviers on screen - and wondering why it's so difficult for television to catch the spirit of theatre. Plus Nancy has been to see An Actor Convalescing in Devon at Hampstead Theatre and Sarah has watched The Comeuppance at the Almeida which prompts a conversation about two great American writers - Richard Nelson and Brandon Jacobs-Jenkins - and how they find ways into examining friendship, illness, death and the human condition. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2024-04-2035 min
The WhatsOnStage Podcast(ATASTTC) Faith Healer, Keir Starmer and the arts, and the popularity of podcastsIt's been a busy time for Nancy and Sarah, with Nancy recording a new audio drama that builds on new ways of listening to plays and visiting the Royal Shakespeare Company to say goodbye to long-time artistic director Gregory Doran. Meanwhile, Sarah has been to the Lyric Hammersmiith to see a fine revival of Brian Friel's great Faith Healer. Plus Keir Starmer has set out Labour's vision for culture - and it feels unusually heartfelt. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2024-03-2429 min
The WhatsOnStage Podcast(ATASTTC) Family sagas from Dear Octopus to The SimpsonsAs Dodie Smith's Dear Octopus is revived at the National Theatre, Sarah and Nancy talk about family sagas they have loved. Does Star Wars count? Is this why The Simpsons is endlessly compelling? And why are Britain's playwrights turning their attention once more to this simplest and most interesting way of telling a story. Plus: Nancy reveals what happens at an R & D workshop on Shakespeare. Is there a case for cutting to make Shakespeare speak more clearly to the modern age? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2024-03-1038 min
The WhatsOnStage Podcast(ATASTTC) Hadestown, Matt Smith and the importance of speaking outThis week Nancy and Sarah discuss criticism itself, inspired by a new, updated version of Ibsen's An Enemy of the People starring Matt Smith which encourages its audience to enter the debate - and by Sarah's review of the musical Hadestown which pitched her into an unexpected online controversy. Just how important is it to express strong opinions? Is it possible to disagree agreeably or does honest debate end up as a shouting match? And what did the Greeks know about it all? Sarah has been watching a new version of Aristophanes's The Frogs which is also food for...2024-02-2937 min
The WhatsOnStage Podcast(ATASTTC) One Day and the appeal of romcomsNancy and Sarah are hooked on One Day, the Netflix adaptation of David Nicholls' best-selling novel. What is it that makes it so great and why are romcoms very much back in fashion? All of which leads to a conversation about the romcoms they have loved, past and present. Plus a bit of Shakespeare. Nancy's been to see The Midsummer NIght's Dream (perhaps the original romcom) at the RSC while Sarah has been to King Lear (definitely not a romcom) at the Almeida. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2024-02-2028 min
The WhatsOnStage Podcast(ATASTTC) Is British theatre in crisis?As the Young Vic's Kwame Kwei-Armah becomes the latest in a list of artistic directors to announce they are leaving the theatres they have run with great enthusiasm and distinction, Nancy and Sarah discuss whether standstill funding and the effects of Covid are bringing British theatres to their knees. There are a lot of reasons to fear that Kwei-Armah is right when he warns that without government intervention, there's a danger of losing a generation of talent. But why are we so bad at valuing something that is not only an economic boon, but that also adds value to life...2024-02-1233 min
The WhatsOnStage Podcast(ATASTTC) Merrily We Roll Along on Broadway ft Jonathan GroffIn this special episode from the US, Nancy and Sarah talk to the legendary Jonathan Groff, currently starring on Broadway in Stephen Sondheim's Merrily We Roll Along with Daniel Radcliffe and LIndsay Mendez. We talk about singing Sondheim, playing King George in Hamilton, the joys of a long Broadway run, and voicing Kristoff and Sven in Frozen. And yes we do talk about the spitting! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2024-02-0352 min
The WhatsOnStage Podcast(ATASTTC) Oscar nominations - and the wonder of Jodie FosterAs the Oscar nominations are announced, Sarah and Nancy ask whether 13 nominations for Oppenheimer, the treatment of Barbie and the omission of Greta Gerwig from the best director list reveals a reversion to type in Hollywood's attitudes to women. And they talk about Nyad, a film which has brought Oscar nominations for both Annette Bening and Jodie Foster - who is also on TV in True Detective. She is brilliant in both, which prompts a conversation about growing up with child stars. We've been watching Foster since she was nominated as best supporting actress for Taxi Driver 1976 - how does...2024-01-2533 min
The WhatsOnStage Podcast(ATASTTC) Putting up a fight ft Kombat KateNancy and Sarah talk to their special guest Kate Waters, aka Kombat Kate, one of a handful of female fight directors working in the UK today. She's worked on more than 300 productions on stage - and is the fight director for Coronation Street and Emmerdale. Her recent shows include Macbeth with Ralph Fiennes and Indira Varma and King Lear, which is about to open at the Almeida Theatre. In this fascinating interview she reveals the tricks of her trade, and how she began her career. And she explains how she staged one of the most famous fights on the London...2024-01-171h 02
The WhatsOnStage Podcast(ATASTTC) The appeal of Father BrownIn this special episode, to mark the return of the television series Father Brown in which Nancy has featured since 2012, she and Sarah talk about the appeal of period detective shows including Father Brown and Poirot and why they are both comforting and reflective of real social change. Plus, Nancy explains what it's been like to be part of such a long-running series, how she views the character of Lady Felicia and how it feels to return to her TV family Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2024-01-1026 min
The WhatsOnStage Podcast(ATASTTC) Looking ahead in 2024From radical musicals to fascinating revivals, from new plays to ongoing shows. As 2024 begins, Nancy and Sarah make their choices of the best theatre to see in the coming year - and discuss the way in which technology is beginning to transform experiences for audiences. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2024-01-0231 min
The WhatsOnStage Podcast(ATASTTC) Six top feel-good films to watch at ChristmasNancy and Sarah each recommend three movies for Christmas viewing - and discuss what makes the perfect film to watch from the sofa. Their choices also include Paddington 2, Planes, Trains and Automobiles, and Die Hard with honourable mentions for The Great Escape and other festive favourites. There are some brilliant stories from behind the scenes but what is it that makes these movies into seasonal classics. Why do we watch them again and again? This episode was filmed on Zoom and will also be available on YouTube. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2023-12-2349 min
The WhatsOnStage Podcast(ATASTTC) Love , music and the cold war. Plus the appointment of Indhu Rubasingham to the National TheatreNancy and Sarah hail the appointment of Indhu Rubasingham as artistic director of the National Theatre. And talk about Rock N Roll, which Nancy is performing at Hampstead Theatre, and Cold War, which Sarah has just seen at the Almeida, and why love, music and the cold war are a potent mix. Plus some surprising heckling and how Nancy coped. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2023-12-1926 min
The WhatsOnStage Podcast(ATASTTC) Technical Rehearsals and the power of women on stageAs Nancy gets ready for the press night of Rock n Roll at Hampstead she explains what really happens at a technical rehearsal - while Sarah reports back on a week of theatre viewing that included Macbeth, The House of Bernarda Alba and Annie Baker's Infinite Life. Plus: how women are taking over the National Theatre and our excitement about being a podcast pick in Radio Times. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2023-12-0732 min
The WhatsOnStage Podcast(ATASTTC) What makes a Christmas show feel good?Swept on a wave of sugary excitement, Nancy and Sarah talk about Christmas shows - for many people their one theatre treat of the year. What qualities do they need to ensure that the outing goes with a swing? And why does it help critics to be allowed to take a guest? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2023-11-2831 min
The WhatsOnStage Podcast(ATASTTC) What makes a classic?As Nancy begins rehearsals for a new production of Tom Stoppard's Rock 'N' Roll, she and Sarah discuss the whole idea of revivals, why some plays seem more popular than others, what directors bring to the table and how much expectation plays a part in enjoyment. Plus why she nearly ended up rehearsing from an airport. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2023-11-1536 min
The WhatsOnStage Podcast(ATASTTC) Hurrah for the National Theatre!As the Royal National Theatre celebrates its 60th anniversary Nancy and Sarah look back at productions they have loved, productions they wish they had seen - and talk about the building's importance in our cultural life Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2023-10-3146 min
The WhatsOnStage Podcast(ATASTTC) Noel Coward and Private Lives - ft Patricia HodgeTo mark 50 years since Noel Coward's death, the great Patricia Hodge, currently starring in Private Lives at the Ambassador's Theatre in in London, joins Nancy and Sarah to discuss Coward's writing and his influence - with special reference to Oliver Soden's magnificent new biography Masquerade, and a new documentary Mad About the Boy. She shares her insights into performing Coward and explains why Harold Pinter revered him. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2023-10-2032 min
The WhatsOnStage Podcast(ATASTTC) Good news on star ratings - and thoughts on Andrew Scott's VanyaNancy and Sarah are celebrating because WhatsOnStage, where Sarah is theatre critic, is going to move the stars to the bottom of the page, to encourage people to read reviews as well as look at ratings. It's a decision that recognises that you can't sum up a play simply by giving it a mark out of five. Plus: we look at two revivals that definitely can't be summed up in that way - a thoughtful new production of George Bernard Shaw's Pygmalion at the Old Vic and Andrew Scott's revelatory one-man Vanya. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy...2023-10-0931 min
The WhatsOnStage Podcast(ATASTTC) Can star ratings be improved?Sarah and Nancy went to see A Mirror at the Almeida Theatre, London, starring Jonny Lee Miller, Micheal Ward, Tanya Reynolds and Geoffrey Streatfeild. This thought-provoking new play by Sam Holcroft, directed by Jeremy Herrin, got us talking about how to write reviews, about the difficulties of star ratings - and about Nancy's teenage encounter with Jonny Lee Miller. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2023-09-1828 min
The WhatsOnStage Podcast(ATASTTC) Feel-everything musicals and why they workThe opening of Next to Normal at the Donmar Warehouse - a musical about bi-polar illness - prompts a conversation about the need for honesty on stage and whether there's a difference between US and British musicals. Plus Sarah reveals why she finally got Brecht and Nancy talks about her love of big songs in small spaces. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2023-09-0531 min
The WhatsOnStage Podcast(ATASTTC) End of summer catch upNancy and Sarah are back after their summer holidays with a lot to talk about, including Sarah's visit to the Edinburgh Festival, the inspirational qualities of the late director Michael Boyd, and Nancy's unexpected trip to Downing Street Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2023-08-2234 min
The WhatsOnStage Podcast(ATASTTC) Before and after Brideshead- ft Diana Quick - part two on women and great rolesNancy and Sarah continue their conversation with the award-winning actress Diana Quick about her career beyond Brideshead Revisited, in which she went from playing alluring women, to women with nervous breakdowns to bonking grannies. She talks about her favourite roles, the importance of children to art, and why the most interesting parts are often monsters. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2023-07-2135 min
The WhatsOnStage Podcast(ATASTTC) Before and after Brideshead - ft Diana Quick - part oneNancy and Sarah quiz Diana Quick about her career, which began when she was a student and is still going strong. She has paved the way for so many women, but her most famous role remains that of Julia Flyte in Granada's legendary television version of Brideshead Revisited. That's where our conversation begins. It goes on to take in life as an actress in the 1960s, singing a weekly song on TV, starring in Ridley Scott's first film, why Albert Finney had the right attitude to work - and what it was like being called the most beautiful woman in...2023-07-0444 min
The WhatsOnStage Podcast(ATASTTC) Groundhog Day, Tom Stoppard - and why actors make artNancy has been curating an exhibition of art made by actors; Sarah has been watching musicals including Groundhog Day at the Old Vic and 42nd Street on tour. While on Broadway, Tom Stoppard and Patrick Marber, subject of a previous podcast, have taken prizes at the Tony Awards. All are the subject of this week's freewheeling conversation. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2023-06-1841 min
The WhatsOnStage Podcast(ATASTTC) Succession and acting on screen vs stageInspired by Sarah's obsession with Succession and the way in which actors with both screen and stage backgrounds combine to make a perfect whole, Sarah and Nancy talk about screen acting and screen writing and Nancy reveals that the difference between the two is not quite what you think. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2023-06-0633 min
The WhatsOnStage Podcast(ATASTTC) The power of Puppets - ft Finn CaldwellFinn Caldwell is the Olivier-award-winning movement director and director of puppetry behind Life of Pi and Ocean at the End of the Lane and many other hits. He started out as the man manipulating the goose in War Horse. He talks to Nancy and Sarah about the way you design a puppet, how they come to life - and how they are changing what theatre can do. "It needs to be capable of anything," he says. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2023-05-2238 min
The WhatsOnStage Podcast(ATASTTC) Dancing at Lughnasa and Brian Friel - ft Jo Stone-FewingsTo celebrate the National Theatre's wonderful new production of Brian Friel's Dancing at Lughnasa, Nancy and Sarah talk about what makes the play such a classic and so full of feeling - with the help of Nancy's husband Jo Stone-Fewings, who met Friel when he appeared in the 2009 revival at the Old Vic. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2023-05-1032 min
The WhatsOnStage Podcast(ATASTTC) Richard Burton and the appeal of HamletThe Motive and The Cue by Jack Thorne is about to open - inspired by the time Richard Burton played Hamlet in New York, directed by John Gielgud, with Elizabeth Taylor watching things from the wings. It inspired Nancy and Sarah to talk about why great and famous actors would want to take on those huge Shakespearean parts - and what it takes out of them. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2023-04-3026 min
The WhatsOnStage Podcast(ATASTTC) Violence on stageAs Ivo van Hove's ultra-violent version of A Little Life starring James Norton opens on stage, Nancy and Sarah take a look back at some of the history of violence on stage - the plays that have shocked people most, the purpose of stage violence, and the most violent play Nancy has ever starred in. Warning: there are discussions of subjects that some people may find upsetting including violence, bloodshed, self-harm and thoughts of suicide Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2023-04-1641 min
The WhatsOnStage Podcast(ATASTTC) In praise of the matineeInspired by Jamie Lee Curtis, and Nancy's matinees at the Menier Chocolate Factory in Marjorie Prime, Sarah and Nancy take a gentle look at the pleasure of a mid-afternoon performance. And suggest that perhaps we should be considering shows at midnight too! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2023-04-0331 min
The WhatsOnStage Podcast(ATASTTC) Losing - and finding - your voiceNancy, currently on stage in Marjorie Prime, completely lost her voice thanks to bacterial laryngitis - which prompted Sarah to ask whether actors' voices have changed down the years, and what you can do to change and alter your voice. With special reference to Richard Burton, Benedict Cumberbatch - and Sting! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2023-03-2436 min
The WhatsOnStage Podcast(ATASTTC) Putting Women Centre StageAs Nancy prepares to open in Marjorie Prime, she and Sarah discuss how few women's voices are still heard - and ways to make sure women are studied in schools and listened to on stage and film. With nods to Caitlin Moran, Sleepova at the Bush Theatre, Women Talking - and why Nancy feels the urge to jump over furniture. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2023-03-0934 min
The WhatsOnStage Podcast(ATASTTC) Dog poo, creatives and criticsAfter an incident in which a choreographer smeared dog faeces in a critic's face because he took against her review, Nancy and Sarah discuss what drives creatives to attack critics, why reviewers have to be free to say what they think - and suggest ways in which the dialogue can improve Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2023-02-2434 min
The WhatsOnStage Podcast(ATASTTC) What happens in rehearsals?Nancy is in rehearsals for a new play at the Menier Chocolate Factory. So she and Sarah take the opportunity to talk about what goes on behind the scenes when a cast come together - and why you must never have an affair! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2023-02-0935 min
The WhatsOnStage Podcast(ATASTTC) A visit to the Circus ft Luke Hallgarten of Revel Puck CircusNancy and Sarah return from their January break full of excitement as Luke Hallgarten, artistic director of the Revel Peck Circus, explains how the art of the circus ring reaches parts other arts really can't reach. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2023-01-3135 min
The WhatsOnStage Podcast(ATASTTC) What makes a great Christmas show?Sarah and Nancy tip full-tilt into Christmas with a chat about Scrooge, pantomime dames, and all things festive. What does make a good Christmas show? Why is Sarah so miserable at a pantomime? And why does Nancy love carols? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2022-12-2133 min
The WhatsOnStage Podcast(ATASTTC) Why the arts deserve government supportIn Second World War, the British government thought the arts mattered enough to fund an entire entertainment arm. After the war, they built new theatres to enrich the peace, Why have we stopped believing culture is important now, when the world is reeling from a pandemic and a cost of living crisis? Nancy and Sarah take the long view of why they care about the arts - and why they should belong to everyone. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2022-12-0932 min
The WhatsOnStage Podcast(ATASTTC) Best of Enemies ft Jeremy HerrinAs James Graham's new play Best of Enemies transfers to the West End, Nancy and Sarah talk to director Jeremy Herrin about working with new playwrights, the challenges of commercial theatre, the importance of assistant directors - and how a teacher changed his life. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2022-11-2646 min
The WhatsOnStage Podcast(ATASTTC) Theatre for kidsAs we begin the run up to Christmas, Nancy and Sarah look back on shows that had a huge impact on them and their children - and the magic ingredients that all kids' shows need Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2022-11-1222 min
The WhatsOnStage Podcast(ATASTTC) First Nights - the triumphs and disastersInspired by Dominic Dromgoole's new book First Nights That Changed the World, Nancy and Sarah talk about the rituals of first nights - the food, the parties, the mood in the audience - and the effects they can have. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2022-11-0534 min
The WhatsOnStage Podcast(ATASTTC) Food for thought ft Sarah HemmingNancy and Sarah welcome their first critic guest, Sarah Hemming, who writes for the Financial Times and the conversation goes all over the place, from the dangers of biscuits onstage to the idea that critics should walk towards a play if they want to be part of the discussion. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2022-10-2742 min
The WhatsOnStage Podcast(ATASTTC) A life in theatre - ft David HareNancy and Sarah talk to David Hare about actors he has loved, performances he remembers, the difference between writing and directing, why some people loathe the theatre and why critics are so often wrong about breakthrough plays. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2022-10-121h 01
The WhatsOnStage Podcast(ATASTTC) The funny thing about comedyThis week Nancy and Sarah went to the Old Vic to see Eureka Day - a comedy about a serious subject. One scene makes the audience collapse with helpless laughter, which got us thinking about the role of laughter in theatre. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2022-10-0133 min
The WhatsOnStage Podcast(ATASTTC) Much Ado About Much AdoNancy and Sarah discuss recent theatrical outings at the Globe, the National Theatre and elsewhere to see multiple versions of Much Ado About Nothing. Why are some Shakespeare plays performed all the time - and should directors be bolder in their choices? Nancy also reveals her understanding of the reason you can't say Macbeth in a theatre - and Sarah shows a sad obsession with alphabetising her programmes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2022-09-2434 min
The WhatsOnStage Podcast(ATASTTC) The Queen on stage and screenIn the week after Queen Elizabeth's death, Nancy and Sarah find themselves talking about the way she had been portrayed on stage and screen and how that affects our views - both of her personally and of the monarchy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2022-09-1337 min
The WhatsOnStage Podcast(ATASTTC) Previews - what's the point?Nancy has been watching All's Well that Ends Well at the RSC in preview on her travels, and Sarah has been to see a sensational and long-running production of The Seagull. In this week's episode, we talk about the benefits of previews - and why they enrage journalists while helping actors. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2022-08-2937 min
The WhatsOnStage Podcast(ATASTTC) Theatre in the open air - and on the roadAfter a visit to the Regent's Park Open Air Theatre to see 101 Dalmatians together, Nancy and Sarah talk about the effects of theatre in the open air - and how different audiences react to different venues. Plus Sarah reports back from her trip to the Edinburgh Festival. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2022-08-1333 min
The WhatsOnStage Podcast(ATASTTC) The Edinburgh FestivalAs thousands flock to the Edinburgh Festival over the next few weeks, we decided to devote this week's podcast to the joys of being in a city which is totally taken over by art - from the street performers to the most famous international artists. Nancy has performed there as a student; Sarah has watched an awful lot down the years. And we both have very happy memories of the place and what we have seen. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2022-08-0630 min
The WhatsOnStage Podcast(ATASTTC) Closer 25 Years On - ft Patrick MarberPatrick Marber's Closer is 25 years old. As a new version opens at the Lyric Hammersmith, Nancy - who was in the last London revival - and Sarah are joined by the playwright to discuss what it meant when it was first unveiled, what it means now, and the role of critics in making it a success. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2022-07-2051 min
The WhatsOnStage Podcast(ATASTTC) Do critics have to weigh their words?Nancy Carroll and Sarah Crompton begin by discussing how critics write about actors on stage - and the difficulties of intensely personal descriptions. But then the conversation ranges far and wide to nudity, positive images of bodies, the effect of language on society - and a surprising amount about dogs. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2022-06-0339 min
The WhatsOnStage Podcast(ATASTTC) The Ian Charleson AwardsNancy Carroll and Sarah Crompton discuss the value of the Ian Charleson Awards - invented by a critic to honour a great actor - and their remarkable success rate in identifying the stars of tomorrow Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2022-05-2235 min
The WhatsOnStage Podcast(ATASTTC) Company, Oklahoma! and other great musicals - ft Rosalie CraigIn this episode, Nancy, Sarah and their special guest Rosalie Craig talk about Stephen Sondheim, Rodgers and Hammerstein and the great musicals they love - and new productions that are changing our view of them. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2022-05-1445 min
The WhatsOnStage Podcast(ATASTTC) Donald Trump and real people on stageNancy Carroll and Sarah Crompton talk about what it's like to play a real person - Nancy has - and about Bertie Carvel as Donald Trump at the Old Vic. Plus other theatrical incarnations of living people. And a bit about Jerusalem. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2022-05-0634 min
The WhatsOnStage Podcast(ATASTTC) The Corn is GreenActress Nancy Carroll and critic Sarah Crompton discuss what plays should be revived- and what it's like to work at the National Theatre. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2022-04-2939 min