STAGES with Peter Eyers (Peter Eyers)
Explore every episode of STAGES with Peter Eyers
| Pub. Date | Title | Duration | |
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| 27 Jul 2022 | ’From Blitz to Glitz’ - Writer, Actor, Producer and Television Pioneer; David Sale | 01:14:25 | |
David Sale’s contributions to Australian television are supreme. Satirical comedy and episodic drama received the nation’s attention and obsession under David’s guidance. As executive producer of The Mavis Bramston Show or as creator of Number 96, David’s work was guaranteed to be controversial, outrageous, ground-breaking and classic. Both of these series rated highly in their day and still rank amongst the most famous and influential programs to have appeared on Australian television. Born in Manchester, England, David Sale was brought to Australia by his migrant parents and has had a lengthy career as an actor, scriptwriter, producer and author. Commencing his career as a journalist with the ABC, he simultaneously took on performing roles with Kew Repertory Theatre and with the Melbourne Little Theatre. A Garnet H. Carroll tour of The King & I quickly followed. He then returned to the UK to become an actor, in several plays and films. This adventure also saw him lead the first company of The Mousetrap to tour outside the UK. He has provided special material for some of Australia’s legendary entertainers on stage, television and cabaret; including writing for Toni Lamond’s guest hosting on In Melbourne Tonight. David produced the last of Sydney’s notoriously naughty Phillip Street Theatre Revues, Lie Back and Enjoy It, starring Carol Raye and Hazel Phillips. David Sale has authored six novels, two of which were bought for the movies. Extending his genre writing, he has also collaborated on a Musical Theatre adaptation of Sumner Locke Elliott’s Careful He Might Hear You, with composer Ron Creager; providing the book and lyrics. David is a font of knowledge, reflecting on the development of television and theatre in Australia. The craft of writing is also examined insightfully. David shares many anecdotes and much joy in this compelling episode of the STAGES podcast. The STAGES podcast is available to access and subscribe from Spotify and Apple podcasts. Or from wherever you access your favourite podcasts. A conversation with creatives about craft and career. Recipient of Best New Podcast at 2019 Australian Podcast Awards. Follow socials on instagram (stagespodcast) and facebook (Stages). | |||
| 25 Aug 2021 | 'The Actor' - Peter Cousens, Part 1 | 01:13:11 | |
Peter Cousens' name is synonymous with the musical theatre in Australia. His contributions are many - as a leading man, producer and passionate advocate of the form.
He is a graduate of the National Institute of Dramatic Art and has carved a career as an actor, singer, producer, director, teacher and film director.
He played the Phantom in The Phantom of the Opera on London's West End for eleven months in 1997/98. He has starred alongside Russel Crowe in Blood Brothers, the late Richard Harris in Camelot and has had an extensive career playing major roles in musicals throughout Australia, New Zealand and England.
As an actor he has worked extensively with Australia's major performing arts companies including Sydney Theatre Company Macbeth, Measure for Measure, Nicholas Nickleby, Chicago, Chinchilla and Convict's Opera; Griffin The Falls; Philip Street Theatre Whose Life is it Anyway; The Queensland Theatre Company Camille, Breaker Morant, You Never Can Tell, The Sentimental Bloke; Marian Street, London Assurance & Fanny; Melbourne Theatre Company Company; Sydney Dance Company in Tivoli; Out of Joint (UK) The Convicts Opera; Darlinghurst Theatre The Paris Letter.
On Television Cliffy, Phryne Fisher, Return to Eden, The Sullivans, Carson's Law, The Young Doctors, Son and Daughters, The Timeless Land and Under Capricorn.
Peter tours extensively around Australia with his own one man show and works regularly in concert performing in Australia's major performing arts venues and with Symphony Orchestras.
He is the Artistic Director of the Talent Development Project and conducts workshops and master classes with elite talent from Government Schools across NSW. Peter also conducts classes and workshops with the NSW Education Departments Arts Unit specifically around the development of performance skills for secondary students. He teaches in the Musical Theatre Diploma Course at NIDA and regularly directs theatre, conducts workshops and classes at Central Queensland University.
He is a consummate artist who has invested his talent across many platforms, stages and roles. His experiences and garnered wisdom are vast. STAGES welcomes the opportunity to celebrate Peter Cousens.
The STAGES podcast is available from Apple podcasts, Spotify, Whooshkaa and where you find your favourite podcasts. www.stagespodcast.com.au
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| 03 Jun 2023 | ‘… Drew Back The Curtain, To See For Certain’ - Stage & Screen Lyricist, Storyteller and Musical Theatre Titan; Sir Tim Rice | 01:10:16 | |
From an early age Tim Rice was a pop music fanatic. He began his professional life as a trainee solicitor. While still an apprenticed clerk Tim approached the head of Arlington Books, Desmond Elliot, with the idea of writing a book about pop history. The idea didn't impress Elliot, but the fact that Tim was also a budding song-writer did. Elliot knew someone in need of a collaborator: a young man called Andrew Lloyd Webber, who wanted to be a composer. At Elliot's suggestion, Tim wrote to Andrew, and a meeting was quickly arranged. The two men hit it off immediately, and, owing to Andrew’s love of American musical theatre, began to try to write a musical rather than pop singles. And so this story begins. Tim Rice continued to work with Andrew Lloyd Webber, giving us visceral and intelligent musical theatre fare that includes Joseph & The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Jesus Christ Superstar and Evita. The pair also share the unique accolade of writing a song for Elvis Presley; “It’s Easy for You”. The song is also remarkable in that it is the last song on the last album released during Elvis' lifetime. Subsequent collaborations have been with fellow titans of the craft - Elton John, Alan Menken, Bjorn Ulvaeus and Benny Andersson creating popular theatrical fare that includes Chess, The Lion King, Aladdin and Aida. His output has been presented by the Disney Organisation, on Broadway, in The West End and for commercial stages around the globe. The popularity of his works with community and school theatres has ensured that at any time, somewhere in the world, a Tim Rice musical is being produced. This year in Australia alone we have seen commercial productions of Joseph and the Technicolor Dreamcoat and Beauty & the Beast. Tim is the recipient of 3 Academy Awards, 4 Tonys, 5 Grammys and 1 Emmy - making him that ‘rare bird’ in the entertainment industry - one of only 17 artists to have garnered an EGOT. He was knighted by Elizabeth 2nd for services to music in 1994. He has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, is an inductee to the Songwriter’s Hall of Fame, a Disney Legend Recipient, a fellow of the British Academy of Songwriters, and has his own Cricket team. | |||
| 03 Mar 2025 | STAGES Episode 545: GRAEME KEARNS | 00:54:36 | |
Foundation Theatres is a wholly Australian owned theatre owner, operator and production investor. Their current venues are two of Sydney’s premier large commercial theatres, the Capitol Theatre and Sydney Lyric, as well as a new intimate theatre, Foundry Theatre. Foundry Theatre at Sydney Lyric opened triumphantly in February with five sold out performances by Tim Minchin, with audiences blown away by the venue’s incredible sound, its intimate nature, and the unique and theatrical entry through backstage passageways. The Chief Executive Officer of Foundation Theatres is Graeme Kearns. He has led the company since 2009. Prior to joining Foundation Theatres, Graeme was Commercial Director of one of the world’s leading event production companies. Whilst overseeing the organisation’s theatre operations, Graeme’s primary role focuses on the development of the organisation, strategic operations, theatrical investments and programming. He joins STAGES to discuss Sydney’s theatrical temples, his own career trajectory and the business of show. The STAGES podcast is available to access and subscribe from Spotify and Apple podcasts. Or from wherever you access your favourite podcasts. A conversation with creatives about craft and career. Follow socials on instagram (stagespodcast) and facebook (Stages). | |||
| 04 May 2024 | ‘I Think I’m Gonna Like it Here!’ - Musical Theatre Legend; Robyn Arthur | 01:09:10 | |
Robyn Arthur is one of Australia’s leading theatre performers who soon celebrates 50 years working in the Industry. Robyn toured with Jonathan Church’s Singin’ in the Rain and Jonathan Biggins’ Australia Day for Hit Productions and Mother & Son with Noeline Brown for McLaren House. In 2013, she toured Australia in Elizabeth Coleman’s play It’s My Party (And I’ll Die If I Want To!) with Henri Szeps for Hit Productions and appeared in the Production Company’s Singin’ in the Rain directed by Gary Young at the State Theatre. In 2011, she starred again alongside Todd McKenney in the hit revival of The Boy From Oz having also appeared in the original cast. Robyn played Mrs Potts in the Aria Award winning Australian premiere season of Beauty and the Beast with Hugh Jackman and will be long remembered for her performance as Madame Thenardier (Victorian Green Room Award) in the original cast of Les Miserables directed in Australia by Trevor Nunn. Robyn clocked up almost 1,300 performances in the role. In 2007, she was nominated for a Helpmann Award for her performance in the Australian premiere of Sideshow Alley (Keelan/Young) for QPAC. Robyn’s other theatre highlights include Stuart Maunder’s production of My Fair Lady (Opera Australia); Minefield’s and Miniskirts by Terence O’Connell (Malthouse), Gale Edwards’ production of Sweeney Todd (Opera Queensland); Stephen Sondheim’s Company directed by the late Richard Wherrett and Michael Gow’s classic Away for the Sydney Theatre Company. Television credits include The Newsreader, Rosehaven, Five Bedrooms, Sisters, Woodley, Twentysomething, Laid 2, The Librarians, City Homicide, Very Small Business, Kath and Kim, Blue Heelers, MDA, Neighbours, and the US production, Nightmares and Dreamscapes. Robyn also appeared in Charlotte’s Web with Dakota Fanning for Paramount Pictures and the Tropfest short film Hoarder Control directed by Nichola Colla. Robyn’s been a proud member of Actors Equity since 1975 and serves on the Victorian Actors Benevolent Trust (VABT). | |||
| 07 Aug 2019 | Playwright and Community Theatre Advocate - Carla Moore | 00:50:05 | |
Community Theatre provides an opportunity for the amateur practitioner to practice and develop their creative skills in a variety of roles - these include direction, design, front-of-house, marketing and of course, performance. The term amateur defines one who participates in a pursuit without payment but is driven by passion.
Community theatre is a platform for passion - it provides for participants, who have a desire to make the arts their profession, their first precious steps into the precarious and wonderful world of the theatre.
A great deal of fun is had along the way as participants collaborate with other like-minds in a setting that provides a cherished social interaction and develops valuable skills; whilst also providing audiences, in suburban and regional areas, with perhaps their only access to live performance.
Carla Moore is a drama educator and playwright. For the past 17 years she has served as President of the Chester Street Theatre in Epping, Sydney.
The company works out of a church hall and programs 3 productions a year. All are eagerly attended by an enthusiastic local and loyal audience. A subscription package is offered but they do not receive any other funding. Companies like Chester Street theatre rely on their box office to function.
Carla joined STAGES to discuss the vital necessity of such companies and the essential role they play.
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| 27 Mar 2021 | 'The Play's The Thing' - Actor and Playwright, Laneikka Denne | 00:43:41 | |
At 19, Laneikka Denne is an award-winning playwright, actor, and filmmaker based in Western Sydney. Her debut play Dead Skin was awarded the State Theatre Company & Flinders University Young Playwright's Award and is published by Australian Plays. She is currently developing a new work titled Shithole for Q Theatre.
In 2020, Laneikka ventured into screen with her debut short Mitsuku. The script was selected by producer Liz Arday on behalf of ScreenJam Productions in the UK to be produced in 2021. In addition to this, her other short, Feed Me Bubbe is in pre-production in Sydney.
Young queer women are at the heart of all of her work, as she seeks to represent real women with agency and intrigue.
Dead Skin will premiere at the King's Cross Theatre (KXT) on April 2nd and run until the 17th. Written at the tender age of seventeen, the play is a hybrid text of queer and hetero love stories that challenge what it truly means to love and be loved at seventeen. It is a coming-of-age story of a mother and daughter navigating the toxicity of their own relationships, in search of that 'thing' we will never have with any other human, the truest form of love; an inherent, maternal connection.
Check out: http://www.kingsxtheatre.com/dead-skin
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| 09 May 2020 | Great Australian Voices - Conductor and Producer, Brian Castles-Onion | 01:19:16 | |
Brian Castles-Onion is one of Australia's most beloved and exciting opera conductors. His impish charm and infinite knowledge of the operatic repertoire, historical perspectives and vocal technique make him an engaging authority on our rich operatic past.
It is no surprise then, to learn that his lifetime of collecting recordings of vocal artists, now sees him as a passionate preservationist for some of Australia's supreme singers.
Brian is the producer of the acclaimed CD series which celebrates our operatic pioneers: Great Australian Voices. The collection is released through Desiree Records.
There have been ten volumes produced, each serving delicious excerpts from the careers of singers that include Bob Allman, Nance Grant, Maureen Howard, June Bronhill, Marie Collier, Bob Simmons and Geraldine Turner.
The recordings are a treat and offer the listener the opportunity to hear how our musical ancestors sounded; what they sang, how they sang, who they sang with and what they thought about their roles. An insightful historical and pictorial booklet accompanies each volume with much fascinating detail to devour.
Brian joined Stages to generously share knowledge of these great singers and the artistic legacy they leave.
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| 21 Feb 2023 | The STAGES Podcast - World Pride Series - Drag Divas, Legends and Icons; Oh My! - MONIQUE KELLY | 01:02:20 | |
It’s World Pride 2023 and the queer globe is converging on Sydney Australia to celebrate diversity, inclusion, community and fabulousness! To mark this momentous event the STAGES podcast is saluting the cast of captivating drag divas and personalities who have been featured on the podcast during the past 5 seasons. They are artists who have appeared on national and global stages; thrilling audiences, making a difference, healing community and expressing unique and wondrous talents. We spotlight these episodes so you can savour a second listen - or so you can sample the delights of these entertainers for the very first time. A Diva a day for each day of World Pride! Monique Kelly is one of Australia’s greatest drag artists. Equally adept at glamorous, torch-song, and comic turns; she commands the stage with a comprehensive appreciation of stagecraft, savvy and seduction. Monique first stepped on stage at Gilligans, Bondi Beach in 1972 and has never diverted her desire to please an audience. In 1973 she took up residence in Kings Cross and was a featured performer at the Carousel Cabaret and an original cast member of the long-running revue Les Girls, touring Australia and New Zealand. It’s at this time that Monique Kelly created the Golden Girls and staged crowd pleasing shows at the Unicorn Hotel, The Flinders Hotel and the Taxi Club. Her cheeky pantos at the Taxi Club set new levels of production and fabulously outrageous costuming for a cast of three. Monique Kelly has headlined at almost every gay hotel and club on Sydney’s golden mile. Iconic venues from a time passed, all of which offered a joyous celebration of the art of Drag; the Unicorn, Patches, Capriccios, Tropicana, Flo’s Place, Paddington Green Hotel, the Albury and Annie’s Bar. In the early nineties Monique joined the original cast of the famous ‘Carlotta and her Beautiful Boys’ revue as its comedienne. This production show travelled for several years to every major town and city across the entire country playing to packed audiences who would be transported and delighted by the seductive illusions before them. In 2002 she made a triumphant return to our spotlights starring in her own show at The Venus Room, bringing the kind of original performance, not seen on other stages. Monique has been involved with, and worked tirelessly fund raising for all of the major charities related to HIV/AIDS for many years, especially the Luncheon Club. She has appeared in and compered the Luncheon Club’s World AIDS Day picnic in the park, as well as the Carols in the Park at Christmas time. In 2002 she was inducted into the DIVA Hall of Fame - an acknowledgement of her generosity, skill and fabulousness as a performer, and Sydney icon. The STAGES podcast is available from Apple podcasts, Spotify and from where you find your favourite podcasts. Tune in daily for a history of drag in Sydney. Tell your friends, share the podcast, relish the stories and embrace your own sense of Pride. | |||
| 21 Oct 2023 | ‘Broadway Spotlight’ - Impresario; John Frost | 01:00:02 | |
Tune in to a Broadway Spotlight edition of the STAGES podcast. A Spotlight replay brought to you by Academy Travel - a leading specialist in small-group cultural tours. | |||
| 19 Jun 2019 | Composer and Pianist - Ron Creager | 01:14:18 | |
Ron Creager is a fervent believer in saying 'Yes' to all opportunities presented to him. Sometimes prepared, sometimes not, it is this cavalier attitude that has allowed him to wear many hats and travel the world extensively as a solo pianist, accompanist, Musical Director and performer.
Creager's talents extend to the composition of several musicals - Careful He Might Hear You, Aimee and When The Bough Breaks to name but a few. His specialty compositions have contributed to shows like Madonna and Child, in which he toured nationally with Tony's Lamond and Sheldon.
A chance meeting in Los Angeles with legendary Australian performer Toni Lamond, lead Creager in becoming her regular Musical Director and Accompanist; a role that brought him to Australia. As Arranger and Accompanist he has also worked with an array of mighty talent including Helen Reddy, Tim Draxl, Tina C, Derek Metzger, Simon Burke, Jeannie Little, Paul Capsis and Kerrie Biddell.
The role as accompanist is so crucial to the singer that the two performers must merge as one in a relationship where each must navigate the song in synch. It's a role where Creager has been lauded as one of the best.
Originally from Kentucky, Creager was raised on church music giving him an extensive knowledge of the Gospel repertoire, and roles as organist and choir director for several churches.
Ron was recently back in Australia and we managed a long overdue catch-up. He discusses the role of accompanist and talks us through a few of his compositions, providing us with access to the music and the awesome vocalists that have have performed the material.
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| 22 May 2024 | ‘Play Time!’ - Director, Dramaturge, Teacher; Iain Sinclair | 01:05:04 | |
Iain Sinclair is one of Australia’s finest, award winning theatre directors specialising in new writing and contemporary international work. Iain established the critically acclaimed theatre company Elbow Theatre in Canberra, where he received four Critics Circle Awards. He received a Sydney Theatre Award for his production of The Seed by Kate Mulvaney and is also an AWGIE Award nominated director. He has directed a number of highly praised main stage productions in Sydney including Our Town by Thornton Wilder for The Sydney Theatre Company, which was described as “a triumph”. His production of Arthur Miller’s, All my Sons was described as “A rock solid production of a play that makes you shake your head in wonderment”. Iain has also directed for The Melbourne Theatre Company, The Ensemble, The Queensland Theatre Company, Belvoir and Sport for Jove with celebrated productions of Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? By Edward Albee, The Caretaker by Harold Pinter, A View From The Bridge by Arthur Miller, Mojo by Jez Butterworth, Blood Wedding by Federico Garcia Lorca (translation by Sinclair), The Beast by Eddie Perfect, A Midsummer Night’s Dream by William Shakespeare and Berlin by Joanna Murray Smith. Iain graduated with distinction from the RADA Masters Program and Kings College, London. He is the associate artist and resident dramaturge for Playwriting Australia and has been assistant director to Cate Blanchett and Max Stafford Clark. Iain was invited by Max Stafford Clark to tour the UK as a member of his company “Out of Joint” teaching principles of new play making and Max Stafford Clark’s legendary process based on actioning. Iain continues his work as a dramaturge and has worked with the following companies; ASK Los Angeles, New Dramatists New York, The Traverse Scotland, The Royal Shakespeare Company, The Royal Court and The National Theatre England. | |||
| 13 Apr 2024 | ‘The Trees are Full of Starlight’ - Legendary Musical Theatre Performer; Jodie Gillies | 00:46:38 | |
Jodie Gillies commenced her dynamic career in 1983, following her graduation from the Nepean College in Sydney. In the same year she was cast as one of Major Stanley’s daughters in the iconic Victorian State Opera’s production and consequent tour of The Pirates of Penzance. She then appeared in Camelot with Richard Harris; followed by the role of Marta in Stephen Sondheim's Company and Vikki Fowler in King of Country, both for the Sydney Theatre Company. In October 1985 Jodie won the inaugural Australian Contemporary Singing Competition at the Sydney Opera House. Jodie starred in Australia Day Live, the Network Ten Bicentennial extravaganza. Jodie then went on to begin the first of three musical engagements at the Theatre Royal in Sydney, all of which would include the honour of creating her roles in the Premiere Australian seasons, these being Les Miserables, Chess and Aspects of Love. Firstly she played Eponine in the amazing original Australian production of Les Miserables and her performance as the waifish Eponine won her wide acclaim as did her ensuing role as Aldonza in The Man of La Mancha. Jodie has also appeared in cabaret at Kinsela’s in It’s One for the Money and Two for the Show displaying her comedy and mimicry. Jodie then went on to play the lead role of Florence Vassy in the musical Chess to standing ovations and then toured to Queensland as Jess in Lipstick Dreams. Jodie was also awarded the prestigious Musical Theatre Performer of the Year by the Variety Club in 1991. Jodie has also toured with her own production The Other Woman which marked her debut as a writer and director. This show also took her to New York in 1992, where it was very well received. From there Jodie went on to play the role of Giulietta Trapani in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Aspects of Love in both Sydney and Melbourne. Jodie also joined the cast of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, taking over the starring role of the Narrator from Tina Arena at Sydney's Her Majesty's Theatre. Jodie also performed in Love Lemmings at the Tilbury Hotel in Sydney. In late 1995, Jodie performed her second self written show called A Soldier's Song which tells the story of her Grandfather during the war years. She based the show on some diaries that her Grandfather had left behind from the war plus some of the classic tunes from around that time. Jodie’s television credits include The Ray Martin Show, A Country Practice, Home and Away, The Money or the Gun, Live n' Sweaty, Hey Hey It’s Saturday, the Steve Vizard Show and Once in a Blue Moon, a celebration of Australian Musicals. Jodie has also released a self titled solo album featuring songs from Les Miserables, Aspects of Love, Chess, Miss Saigon and more. The STAGES podcast is available to access and subscribe from Spotify and Apple podcasts. Or from wherever you access your favourite podcasts. A conversation with creatives about craft and career. Follow socials on instagram (stagespodcast) and facebook (Stages).www.stagespodcast.com.au | |||
| 04 Sep 2021 | 'Dancing Through Life' - Director and Choreographer, Amy Campbell | 00:52:37 | |
Amy Campbell is one of Australia's most accomplished dance talents with a career spanning all areas of the entertainment industry. Her extensive list of choreographic credits include Once (Darlinghurst Theatre Co), In The Heights (Blue Saint Productions in association with The Hayes Theatre), the Australian premiere of Violet, the national tour of HAIR (Sydney Opera House and Peace Productions), An Act Of God (Darlinghurst Theatre Co), Spring Awakening (ATYP), the original Australian work Guilty Pleasures (Blue Saint Productions) and Oklahoma for The Production Company.
Amy's theatre credits include dance captain and role cover in the Australian tour of Dirty Dancing, Fame The Musical, Saturday Night Fever, Xanadu, the world premiere of King Kong Live on Stage, principal dancer in Opera Australia's Carmen and the Resident Choreographer of The Bodyguard Musical Australia.
She was also the Choreographer/Movement Director and Assistant Director on The Sydney Symphony Orchestra's productions of Funny Girl, Porgy and Bess and Candide.
Amy has performed domestically and internationally, dancing alongside Kylie Minogue, Flo Rida, Redfoo, Tina Arena, Natalie Bassingthwaighte, Sam Sparro and Sam and The Womp. She has choreographed on Dance Academy, The X Factor and ABC's Giggle and Hoot.
Last year Amy choreographed Velvet Rewired and was revival choreographer for Carmen (Opera Australia). She has twice prepared to make her directorial debut originating a brand new Australian production of A Chorus Line with The Darlinghurst Theatre Company. But as with much of live theatre and the work of production houses around the country, Covid is determined to pause this essential expression.
The STAGES podcast is available from Apple podcasts, Spotify and Whooshkaa. Also where you find your favourite podcasts. www.stagespodcast.com.au
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| 25 Nov 2022 | STAGES SPOTLIGHT - CONVERSATIONS REVISITED: Eva Grace Mullaley - from December, 2019 | 00:42:40 | |
With episodes nearing 350 in the STAGES archive, it’s time to revisit conversations featured in our previous seasons. STAGES spotlights such episodes, in case you missed them the first time ‘round - or so you can simply savour, a second listen. Either way, you’ll be accessing precious oral histories from the people who were there, on and around our stages. The Yirra Yaakin Theatre Company is Australia’s leading Aboriginal theatre company, based in Perth, WA, in the heart of the Nyoongar Nation. Formed in 1993, Yirra Yaakin provides the means and environment to assist the nurturing of Aboriginal community cultural development. Yirra Yaakin means ‘stand tall’ in the Nyoongar language. At the commencement of 2019, Yamaji woman, Eva Grace Mullaley was appointed as Artistic Director. Eva Grace grew up predominantly in the South West of Western Australia and moved to Perth in 2002. She is a graduate of the Aboriginal Theatre course at WAAPA. She soon joined Yirra Yaakin as an actor performing in Whaloo is That You?, and with Black Swan in the production, Tear From a Glass Eye. In 2005 Eva Grace lectured the Aboriginal students at WAAPA on script writing and directed the collaborative piece Black Tracks. She assisted David Milroy during the Windmill Baby creative development for Yirra Yaakin and was Stage manager during its first public season. She has keenly embraced the extensive roles existing in the theatre. Such work has included roles as a tour manager, producer, event manager, dramaturge, actor and extensive time in administration - essential experiences that have informed her work as a director. At her appointment, Eva Grace was looking forward “to continuing such an inspirational legacy and building on the shoulders of those that came before (her) to lead Yirra Yaakin to a new era.” Four years on, it is a delight to return to an early conversation with Yirra Yaakin Artistic Director, Eva Grace Mullaley. The Stages podcast is available from Apple podcasts, Spotify, and where you find your favourite podcasts. www.stagespodcast.com.au | |||
| 10 May 2024 | ‘High Flying Adored’ - Stage and Screen Star; Stephanie Beacham | 01:10:56 | |
Stephanie Beacham is without a doubt one of Britain's most talented, beautiful and well-known actresses. Despite becoming world famous and an icon of the 1980s due to her role as Sable Colby in the American soap operas Dynasty and The Colbys and going on to have starring roles in shows such as Sister Kate, Seaquest DSV, Beverly Hills 90210, and Bad Girls, Stephanie Beacham had already carved a solid acting career back in her home country. | |||
| 02 Nov 2024 | STAGES Episode 530: BERT LABONTÉ | 00:59:47 | |
Growing up Bert LaBonté had eyes on an AFL career. A chance meeting with legendary actor Terry Norris gave him the confidence to pursue a life on the stage and he was soon studying the craft at Ballarat University. Several decades later and Bert is an established favourite on screen and stages; dramatic and musical, around Australia. Bert is presently in rehearsal for August: Osage County at Belvoir Theatre in Sydney. He recently captivated audiences as Toulouse-Lautrec in Moulin Rouge! The Musical. A long list of musical theatre credits include: The Book of Mormon, An Officer and a Gentleman,Chess and Grey Gardens. His Melbourne Theatre Company credits include: The Truth, Kiss of the Spider Woman, Lungs, Rupert, Birdland, The Mountaintop, Elling and others. For Sydney Theatre Company, he has performed in Fences, A Raisin in the Sun, All My Sons, The Grenade and Spelling Bee, and his Malthouse Theatre credits include: Cloudstreet, I am A Miracle, Time Share. Screen credits include Colin From Accounts, Erotic Stories, Five Bedrooms, Pieces of Her, Lie With Me, FISK, The Newsreader, Surviving Summer, More Than This, Jack Irish, Wentworth, Playing for Keeps, Upper Middle Bogan, Tomorrow When The War Began, Lowdown, Wilfred, The Let Down, and Squinters. Film credits including Animal Kingdom and The Very Excellent Mr. Dundee. Bert has just made is Directorial debut with Melbourne Theatre Company’s Topdog Underdog, and in 2025 plays Maxim in Daphne du Maurier’s Rebecca with the company. The STAGES podcast is available to access and subscribe from Spotify and Apple podcasts. Or from wherever you access your favourite podcasts. A conversation with creatives about craft and career. Follow socials on instagram (stagespodcast) and facebook (Stages). | |||
| 08 Jun 2024 | ‘Luck Be a Lady’ - Stage and Screen Favourite; Genevieve Lemon Pt1 | 01:17:25 | |
Genevieve Lemon has appeared in many premiere Australian productions in a 40-plus year career including Steaming, Steel Magnolias, Seventeen, Miracle City, Priscilla, Queen of the Desert and Billy Elliot, which she also played in London’s West End. | |||
| 21 Jul 2024 | ‘Liz, Margaret, Molly, Marion and Mel’ - Playwright; Melanie Tait | 01:08:35 | |
Melanie is a writer for stage and screen with a proven track record in Australia and the UK. Her first play The Vegemite Tales won critical and popular acclaim, playing eight years in London, including two years on the West End. Melanie then trained as a journalist with the Australian Broadcasting Corporation, where she worked for twelve years across radio, podcasting and television. Her next play The Appleton Ladies’ Potato Race premiered at the Ensemble Theatre in Sydney in March 2019 and toured nationally in 2021. The play has been programmed right around Australia and New Zealand including at the State Theatre Company of South Australia and productions at Queensland Theatre and The Court Theatre in Christchurch. Melanie also adapted the play into a feature film with EQ Media, writing the screenplay for The Appleton Ladies' Potato Race. She has 5 plays under commission at Melbourne Theatre Company, Ensemble Theatre, Sydney Festival and Blue Cow Theatre Tasmania and is developing an original tv series with Screen Tasmania and Next Gen Productions. She is also at various stages of development on a slew of screen projects. Melanie’s play A Broadcast Coup, opened in 2023 at Ensemble Theatre as part of Sydney Festival. Here next, The Queen’s Nanny, will open at Ensemble Theatre in September, and is touring nationally in 2025. The STAGES podcast is available to access and subscribe from Spotify and Apple podcasts. Or from wherever you access your favourite podcasts. A conversation with creatives about craft and career. Follow socials on instagram (stagespodcast) and facebook (Stages). | |||
| 07 Oct 2023 | ‘Broadway Spotlight’ - Actor/Singer; Amelia Cormack | 01:04:09 | |
Tune in to a Broadway Spotlight edition of the STAGES podcast. A Spotlight replay brought to you by Academy Travel - a leading specialist in small-group cultural tours. STAGES caught up with Amelia in November 2022, live from New York City, to celebrate her passion for musical theatre, the importance of chasing your dreams and … to rejoice in the occasion of Amelia making her long anticipated debut on Broadway. | |||
| 24 Apr 2024 | ‘Ghost Light’ - Actor; Daniel MacPherson | 00:55:40 | |
One of Australia’s most highly regarded leading actors, Daniel MacPherson has most recently been seen starring as Sam Levine in Russell Crowe’s feature Poker Face and as fan favourite Hugo Krast in Apple TV+’s sci-fi behemoth Foundation opposite Jared Harris. Daniel will next be seen in the anticipated US action feature Land of Bad, reuniting with Russell Crowe and alongside Liam Hemsworth. In 2023 he starred in the theatre production 2:22 A Ghost Story, receiving critical acclaim in the role of Ben. | |||
| 09 Nov 2019 | Aboriginal Artist and Activist - Dr Richard Walley | 00:58:03 | |
Dr. Richard Walley is an artist of many disciplines - a musician, dancer, painter, writer, indigenous activist and educator. He has spent over 40 years educating Australia and the world on Nyoongar culture and identity through the arts.
A role model for Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people alike, Richard continues to push boundaries, continually developing personally whilst always focussed on the bigger 'community' picture of the Arts, Culture and Environment.
In 1978, Richard formed the Middar Aboriginal Theatre which subsequently has taken Nyoongar culture to 32 countries, celebrating and affirming indigenous culture and narrative.
A former Australia Council Board member, he was named a State Living Treasure in 2015 for his lifetime contribution to arts and culture in Western Australia.
Richard became involved with Aboriginal politics at an early age, having active involvement in the formation and operation of the Aboriginal Housing Board, the Aboriginal Medical Service, Legal Service and the New Era Aboriginal Fellowship. Through his involvement, Richard first became aware of the potential of Aboriginal culture to give the Nyoongar people a sense of pride and identity. This awareness grew throughout the years, as Richard 'learned' about his own culture, moving into the world of Theatre and the Arts.
It was a privilege to sit down with Richard as he shared his proud Nyoongar heritage and the power of arts to transform and teach and extend our humanity.
The Stages podcast is available from iTunes, Spotify and Whooshkaa.
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| 03 Jun 2024 | ‘The Soldier Tir'd of War's Alarms’ - Veteran Actor; Robert van Mackelenberg | 01:20:07 | |
Extensive experience throughout Australia in theatre, film, radio and television, over several decades, established Robert van Mackelenberg as one of our leading actors. | |||
| 16 Dec 2021 | 'An American, in Paris, in Australia' - New York City Ballet Principal & Broadway Leading Man, Robbie Fairchild | 00:47:12 | |
Robert Fairchild began dancing at the age of four in Salt Lake City. He began his training at the School of American Ballet at the age of 15 and shortly after rose through the ranks of the prestigious New York City Ballet. He became an apprentice with NYCB in June 2005. The following June, he joined the Company as a member of the corps de ballet. He was promoted to soloist in May 2007 and was promoted to Principal Dancer in October 2009.
Robert Fairchild made his Broadway debut with his breakout role as 'Jerry Mulligan' in the Tony Award-winning musical An American in Paris. He was nominated for the Tony Award for Best Performance By An Actor in a Leading Role in a Musical, and won the 2015 Drama Desk and Outer Critics Circle Awards for Outstanding Actor in a Musical, the 2015 Astaire Award for Best Male Dancer, and the 2015 Theatre World Award. He was also nominated for the 2015 Drama League Award for Distinguished Performance.
He appeared for 12 years in NYCB's seasons at the Lincoln Center. His roles ranged from Prince Desirè in The Sleeping Beauty to works by world renowned choreographer William Forsythe.
Television appearances include Julie's Greenroom on Netflix, Romeo in NYCB's Romeo and Juliet and Carousel Boy in NY Philharmonic's Carousel, both for PBS; Live From Lincoln Center, Dancing With The Stars, The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, Live with Kelly and Michael, CBS Sunday Morning, 60 Minutes.
On film, Robert played a regal Munkustrap in the screen adaptation of Cats.
He is charm personified and easily carries the mantle of Song & Dance man. STAGES caught up with him soon after his arrival in Australia, as he prepares to commence rehearsals for An American in Paris down under.
The STAGES podcast is available from Apple podcasts, Spotify and Whooshkaa. Also where you find your favourite podcasts. www.stagespodcast.com.au
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| 02 Mar 2023 | The STAGES Podcast - World Pride Series - Drag Divas, Legends and Icons; Oh My! - CARLOTTA | 00:46:23 | |
It’s World Pride 2023 and the queer globe is converging on Sydney Australia to celebrate diversity, inclusion, community and fabulousness! To mark this momentous event the STAGES podcast is saluting the cast of captivating drag divas and personalities who have been featured on the podcast during the past 5 seasons. They are artists who have appeared on national and global stages; thrilling audiences, making a difference, healing community and expressing unique and wondrous talents. We spotlight these episodes so you can savour a second listen - or so you can sample the delights of these entertainers for the very first time. A Diva a day for each day of World Pride! Carlotta is an Australian cabaret performer and television celebrity. She is as iconic as the Sydney Opera House, Kylie Minogue and Vegemite! Carlotta began her career as an original member of the long-running Les Girls cabaret show, performed entirely by heavily costumed males, which started in 1963 in the purpose built Les Girls building, which stood on a prominent corner in the heart of Sydney's Kings Cross, Carlotta, rose through the ranks of the show to eventually become the show's compere and its most famous member. Les Girls and Carlotta soon became must-see attractions for visitors to Sydney and the show was popular with visiting international celebrities. Since then she has become an iconic part of the Australian queer and mainstream landscapes, appearing in a host of stage triumphs - and as a popular personality on television. Carlotta returned to the stage for two dynamic outings in 2022; as ‘Astrid Zeneca’ in Trevor Ashley’s Christmas panto, Moulin Scrooge and a triumphant turn performing in Priscilla; Queen of the Desert at The Star on The Gold Coast. The STAGES podcast is available from Apple podcasts, Spotify and from where you find your favourite podcasts. Tune in daily for a history of drag in Sydney. Tell your friends, share the podcast, relish the stories and embrace your own sense of Pride. | |||
| 01 Oct 2022 | ‘Wired For Sound’ - Sound Technician; Jennifer Morgan | 01:03:55 | |
An element of production that is so crucial to the success of a musical or play is an invisible one. The potency and power of Sound Design serves to support a work through a vibrant aural experience. Our theatrical forms are reliant on quality and clarity with amplification and resonance.
Such is the fragile and sensitive nature of sound production in the theatre. With a Musical it is about ensuring a balance of sound, contributed to from an actor’s voice, spoken and sung, orchestral brilliance and sound effects.
A vessel through which the sound is transferred to an attentive audience is the microphone, more specifically radio mics attached to an actor, to relay story, emotional range and vocal prowess.
I’m thrilled that we can investigate this vital component of Musical theatre with Sound Technician, Jennifer Morgan.
Jen is a much valued, adored and essential presence backstage at many commercial Musical theatre productions as she maintains, manages and manipulates the amplification of sound, ensuring the performers are able to fulfil their duties with ease and confidence.
If you have sat in the audience of Wicked, The Wizard of Oz or Annie you will have appreciated the contribution of Jen. She is backstage monitoring the quality of sound and attending to the support of the performer.
Jen also posses a great sense of humour and fascinating insight to the magic of sound. She recently completed a season of Mary Poppins in Sydney and now travels with the company to Brisbane.
The STAGES podcast is available to access and subscribe from Spotify and Apple podcasts. Or from wherever you access your favourite podcasts. A conversation with creatives about craft and career. Recipient of Best New Podcast at 2019 Australian Podcast Awards. Follow socials on instagram (stagespodcast) and facebook (Stages).
www.stagespodcast.com.au
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| 31 Mar 2021 | 'Put On Your Sunday Clothes' - Broadway Performer and Creative, Michaeljon Slinger | 01:05:26 | |
Originally from Queensland, Michaeljon Slinger moved to the United States in 2004 after winning the Australian Dancer of the Year Award and receiving full scholarship to attend American Ballet Theatre's Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis School. He went on to attend the B.F.A Dance program at the prestigious Julliard School in New York City, making him the first Australian to be accepted into either one of these programs.
In 2009, Michaeljon made his Broadway debut as an original cast member and Dance Captain of the revival of West Side Story, directed by Arthur Laurents. He continued his career on Broadway as both a performer and Dance Captain, appearing in the Broadway companies of Billy Elliot the Musical, How To Succeed in Business Without Really Trying, Evita, Side Show, and Matilda. His performing career culminated in the role of Dance Captain for the 2017 revival of Broadway's Hello Dolly! Starring Bette Midler.
Michaeljon's career shifted in 2018, when he made his West End debut as Associate Director and Choreographer of the brand new musical, Mythic. He continues to thrive as a Choreographer, most lately working alongside Lorin Latarro, first as Associate Choreographer on Michael Mayer's World Premiere of La Traviata at the Metropolitan Opera, and following in quick succession as Assistant Choreographer and Dance Captain of the Roundabout Theatre and Fiasco Theatre production of Merrily We Roll Along in New York. The pair are currently collaborating on two Broadway-bound shows with Michaeljon serving as Associate Choreographer for both Almost Famous and Mrs Doubtfire.
When not performing, Michaeljon promotes the importance of Arts Education and hopes to continue to share his knowledge and experience with the next generation of young performers.
Check out: www.michaeljonslinger.com
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| 08 Aug 2018 | Theatre Archivist and Front-of-House fixture - Stuart Greene | 00:53:04 | |
When we enter a theatre building, the first point of contact before entering the world of the play - is the front-of-house staff.
Those folk who welcome us in, guide us to our seat, or pour us a drink as we give in to the magic of the night.
A popular personality behind the bar of Sydney theatres for many years has been Stuart Greene - a devotee of all things theatre, he is a walking encyclopaedia of our theatre heritage, from the buildings to what has graced the stages and screens. A chance conversation with the owner of his local record store, meant that he could secure an evening job to supplement his day work. His first shift was on the Opening Night of A Little Night Music starring Bruce Barry, Geraldine Turner, Doris Fitton and Tanya Elg.
Working in theatres and cinemas is now a labour of great passion. He is a familiar figure at The Cremorne Orpheum, The Theatre Royal, and The State Theatre, where he also plays a role as archivist and gives a very memorable tour of the building.
You might know him from the now absent Her Majesty's Theatre where he was always a cheerful presence behind the downstairs bar. Stuart enjoys a chat .... and in our conversation he laments the passing of Her Maj (which he considers a great theatre built by The Firm of J.C. Williamson) and bemoans the absence of the dozens of theatres which were once a mainstay of entertainment in Sydney.
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| 10 Oct 2022 | STAGES SPOTLIGHT - CONVERSATIONS REVISITED: Alexander Berlage - from April, 2019 | 01:01:49 | |
Alexander Berlage is an award-winning director and lighting designer. He is co-artistic director of the Old Fitz Theatre. He is a graduate of the National Institute of Dramatic Art in Production, returning three years later to complete his Masters in Direction. Delivering a focused and creative flair since childhood, it would seem that his career was always assured. As a lighting designer, Alexander has worked for Sydney Theatre Company, Opera Queensland, Birmingham Royal Ballet, Sydney Chamber Opera, Sydney Dance Company, Griffin Theatre Company, and Redline Productions … just to name a few! Alexander’s directing work includes American Psycho, Cry-Baby, Young Frankenstein; Gloria, There Will Be A Climax and Mr Burns. His productions command easy engagement and seduce with a vibrant and quirky aesthetic - guaranteeing audiences, delight and reward. In October Berlage stages Let the Right One in for the Darlinghurst Theatre Company - A supernatural thriller that will have you on the edge of your seat A visceral stage adaptation of the best-selling Swedish novel and film, Let The Right One In is a modern-day horror story with a twist … superbly crafted for the stage by Jack Thorne, the award-winning writer of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, this blood-thirsty thriller will set your heart racing with its shocking conclusion. Let’s revisit my conversation with - Alexander Berlage. The Stages podcast is available from Apple podcasts, Spotify, and where you find your favourite podcasts. www.stagespodcast.com.au | |||
| 19 Aug 2020 | 'Hot Glue and Glitter' - Oscar and Tony Award winning Costume Designer, Tim Chappel | 00:41:42 | |
When Tim Chappel was 13, he was mesmerised by the beauty and creation bursting from the pages of an edition of Vogue. This awakening steered the young artist away from aspirations of becoming a botanist and pointed him towards the alchemy of a hot glue gun and glitter, fabric and fabulousness; and into the world of costume design.
Tim Chappel is one of Australia's leading costume designers and has designed for feature films, TV series, theatre, musicals and music video clips. He was awarded the Academy Award, a British Academy of Film and Television Arts Award and an Australian Film Institute Award for his costume design of The Adventures of Priscilla , Queen of the Desert. For the stage musical adaptation, Chappel was rewarded again with Broadway's coveted Tony Award for his inspired design and creation.
His extensive design credits include the films Miss Congeniality and Today You Die; Television product such as Australia's Got Talent and Dancing with the Stars; the stage productions Gypsy and Funny Girl and Music Videos for Cher, Missy Elliott and Matchbox 20.
It is a career that has reached beyond Australian platforms to be showcased in the West End, on Broadway and in the celluloid splendour of Hollywood.
Chappel continues to create vivid worlds on various canvases. He relishes too, the opportunity to train a new generation of costume designers, imparting a knowledge built on invention, spectacle and an inimitable style.
Stages was thrilled to meet Tim and to garner a unique insight into the art of the costume designer and to reflect on a celebrated career.
The Stages podcast is available from iTunes, Spotify and Whooshkaa.
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| 10 Oct 2020 | 'When I Speak It's With My Soul' - Actor, Maria Mercedes | 01:09:59 | |
Maria Mercedes is a first generation Australian. She grew up in Carlton, surrounded by other Greek families. English was not her spoken language when she commenced school. She surmounted early obstacles to become one of our favourite stage and screen actors.
Early participation in television talent shows, Young Talent Time and New Faces garnered the young Mercedes two significant wins and the attention of an industry keen to celebrate her glorious vocal prowess.
Maria Mercedes has become one of Australia's most engaging and enduring performers. She has carved a stellar career as actor, singer and recording artist. Her voice captivates the listener completely. It has the unique ability to reach into an audience and grip them spellbound. It is equal parts power and vulnerability.
A succession of theatre roles are the envy of any Music theatre performer. She has been celebrated as Luisa Contini in Nine, Grizabella in Cats, Svetlana in Chess, Mama Morton in Chicago and has electrified audiences in star turns as Norma Desmond in Sunset Boulevard and Maria Callas in Masterclass.
Film and television roles complete the resume of this accomplished story-teller. Maria's film credits include Head On, Patrick, Dreams For Life, Evil Awakens and The Taverna. And on the small screen in Bloom, Wentworth, Neighbours, Greeks on the Roof and Prisoner.
Maria joined Stages to examine some of those performances and to relish the opportunities she has had in a challenging, surprising but always satisfying career.
The Stages podcast is available from Apple podcasts, Spotify, Whooshkaa and where all good podcasts are found.
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| 02 Apr 2025 | STAGES Episode 555: MATT WEST | 00:56:52 | |
Matt West is the Director / Choreographer for Disney’s Beauty and the Beast on Broadway. Matt received the L.A. Drama-Logue Award, the L.A. Ovation Award, New York’s Drama Desk Award and London’s Olivier Award, for the much celebrated show, which is in the Top 10 longest running shows in Broadway history - with 5461 performances. The classic story of Belle and her Beast has become an audience favourite around the globe. Matt recently returned to Beauty and the Beast, 30 years on, to review the show and bring it into a new era - taking full advantage of developments in technology, cultural shifts, choreographic influence and the abundance of magic, readily available from the Disney brand. Matt West has worked for the Disney Corporation a life-time, first joining the team as a Friend of Peter Pan, and graduating to creating productions for Disney Parks in Tokyo, Paris and California. On Broadway he has staged or choreographed productions of Lestat with music and lyrics by Elton John and Bernie Taupin, and Mimi le Duck starring Eartha Kitt. His work as a creative is informed from extensive credits as a performer in theatre and on the Broadway stage including Fiddler on the Roof, Hello Dolly and A Chorus Line. Matt also played the role of Bobby in Sir Richard Attenborough’s film adaptation of A Chorus Line. International Theatre includes Little Shop of Horrors (Buenos Aires), The Wanderer (Tokyo’s Parko Theatre) The Little Mermaid, Cinderella and Peter Pan for Disney Home Video, The Nutcracker for the Disney Channel. And more than 30 productions of Beauty and the Beast Worldwide. Matt Directed and Choreographed Fantasmic for Tokyo Disney Sea. Current Projects Include the Broadway bound Productions of Smackdown and Click. Matt was recently in Melbourne to visit the brilliant company of Beauty and the Beast, now in it’s final weeks at Her Majesty’s theatre, before it sets of on a national tour. It truly is a glorious production, and I’m thrilled that STAGES had an opportunity to feature Matt in this episode to reflect on his own celebrated career … and to describe the vast journey of the juggernaut, that is, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast. The STAGES podcast is available to access and subscribe from Spotify and Apple podcasts. Or from wherever you access your favourite podcasts. A conversation with creatives about craft and career. Follow socials on instagram (stagespodcast) and facebook (Stages). | |||
| 02 Apr 2022 | 'New Ways To Dream' - Actor, Writer, Director, Theatre Maker; Terence O'Connell | 01:27:36 | |
Terence O'Connell took his first steps towards a life in the theatre as dresser to the male chorus in J.C. Williamson's celebrated production of Funny Girl. The role provided the perfect vantage point to observe the machinery of a large musical, on stage and off, cementing an ambition to make theatre himself.
Terence completed time as an actor working through Western Australia followed by a venture to the UK which awakened a desire to direct. Upon returning to Australia, Terence completed the Directors Course at NIDA and has subsequently, staged some 150 productions in theatres, concert halls, circus tents, cabaret rooms and comedy venues across Australia and internationally.
His national touring shows include Barmaids, They're Playing Our Song, Motherhood: The Musical and The 39 Steps, The Rocky Horror Show, Buddy-The Buddy Holly Story, Busting Out, Decadence, Bouncers, Circus OZ, Flying Fruit Fly Circus and Certified Male.
Terence has created many of his own productions including I Only Want To Be With You: The Dusty Springfield Story, Life On Mars: The Words And Music Of David Bowie, Cruising Paradise: Sam Shepard Tales, Greek Goddess: Melina Mercouri, Reviewing The Situation: At Home With Lionel Bart, and Minefields And Miniskirts: Australian Women And The Vietnam War.
Terence was Director of Spiegelworld's outrageous circus burlesque Empireon, its international tour, and Circus Sensa at London's Albany Empire.
Terence helmed nine Broadway musicals for The Production Company at Melbourne's State Theatre. These included Oklahoma, The King & I, Crazy For You, Damn Yankees, 42nd Street and The Pajama Game, and demonstrated his ease at staging big stories on a large canvas.
Recently he has been adapting two Australian classics for the stage; One Crowded Hour: Neil Davis, Combat Cameraman and a music theatre adaptation of the classic memoir, I Can Jump Puddles.
Mrs Prime Minister, a song cycle focussing on several prominent wives of Australian leaders, has also taken to the stage under Terence's construction and guidance.
He is passionate about telling stories across all forms and styles. Whether making original, or staging established product, Terence O'Connell's work is always inspired, exciting and bound to prompt awe.
The STAGES podcast is available to access and subscribe from Whooshkaa, Spotify and Apple podcasts. Or from wherever you access your favourite podcasts. A conversation with creatives about craft and career. Recipient of Best New Podcast at 2019 Australian Podcast Awards. Follow socials on instagram (stagespodcast) and facebook (Stages).
www.stagespodcast.com.au
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| 14 Jun 2023 | ‘Where Painted Trees and Flowers Grow’ - Theatre Connoisseur; Stuart Greene | 01:07:22 | |
Stuart Green has been a fixture around theatre foyers for over 5 decades - as the genial bar manager who attends to your cocktail pre-show and at interval …. or sometimes even post-show if the theatre allows (a disappearing culture). | |||
| 17 Jun 2023 | ‘Don’t Dream It, Be It’ - Performer, Choreographer, Creative; Nathan M. Wright | 00:51:17 | |
With nearly 30 years’ experience and nominations for his work as both a performer and choreographer, Nathan is a driving force in the performance industry. After 14 successful years as a performer, Nathan began his transition into choreography and direction in 2006. He has since made a name for himself as a highly acclaimed and sought-after Artistic Director and Choreographer with an impressive portfolio that highlights the scope of his skill-set. | |||
| 18 Dec 2022 | ‘That’s Entertainment’ - Musician, Impresario and Showbiz Legend; Kevin Jacobsen - Part 2 | 01:30:45 | |
This is STAGES companion episode to our conversation with Entertainment Entrepreneur - Kevin Jacobsen. In part 1, we learned of Kevin’s early days as a musician - forming and guiding bands that included the KJ Quintet and Col Joy and the Joy Boys. A triumphant career in music, that saw national acclaim for the band and many chart topping hits. In part 2 Kevin takes us on a journey through some of his trials and triumphs as a promoter of artists that include The Bee Gees, Evel Knievel, The Three Tenors, Barbra Streisand and Michael Jackson; and his success as a producer developing the home-grown musical - Shout! - The Legend of the Wild One - Johnny O’Keefe. It is a fascinating career and a conversation that reveals much of the negotiation, collaboration and frustration that goes into securing and presenting such iconic entertainment experiences. In 1985 Kevin received the Order of Australia Medal (OAM) in recognition of his services to the performing arts. He has also garnered numerous ARIA, Mo and Green Room Awards for his theatrical productions. In 2002 Live Performance Australia honoured his contribution to the industry with its James Cassius Williamson Award. The STAGES podcast is available to access and subscribe from Spotify and Apple podcasts. Or from wherever you access your favourite podcasts. A conversation with creatives about craft and career. Recipient of Best New Podcast at 2019 Australian Podcast Awards. Follow socials on instagram (stagespodcast) and facebook (Stages). www.stagespodcast.com.au | |||
| 17 Dec 2022 | ‘Shake, Rattle and Roll’ - Musician, Impresario and Showbiz Legend; Kevin Jacobsen - Part 1 | 01:12:31 | |
Born in Sydney in 1937, Kevin Jacobsen began his working life in a chartered accountant’s practice. An adept piano player, he devoted all his spare moments to music.
In 1957, he and his brother Colin, joined with John Bogle, Lawrie Erwin and Dave Bridge to form the KJ Quintet. After some success changed their name to Col Joye and the Joy Boys, adding younger brother Keith.
Almost immediately they scored a booking on Bill McColl’s Jazzarama concert in October 1957. After this came an engagement to play at the Capitol Theatre in Sydney as a curtain raiser for the film The Tommy Steele Story, an appearance on TV’s Bandstand and a recording contract.
While Col Joye went on to become a ‘teen idol’ and an enduring pop legend, Kevin left the band and began managing artists and promoting concerts. He and Col set up Col Joye enterprises and their own publishing company. In 1965, with Col and Tony Brady, Jacobsen founded ATA Allstar Artists, which encompassed a record label, a recording studio, event promotion and production, and artist representation.
Initially Jacobsen presented local acts – including, of course, Col Joye and the Joy Boys – but before long he began importing overseas attractions. It was to mark this change of direction, that ‘Kevin Jacobsen Productions’ was created. He claims that in the 1970s and 1980s he toured more artists than any other Australian promoter. Eventually he started producing theatrical shows and arena spectaculars, frequently working in partnership with other promoters. Among his early successes was a tour by the affable Irish comedian Dave Allen; one of his disasters was The Evil Knievel Thrill Spectacular, whose infamous American daredevil star failed to deliver either thrills or spectacle.
In 1987 Jacobsen presented Michael Jackson’s first Australian tour. In 1988 he was commissioned by the Queensland Government to mastermind ‘Queensland Day’ celebrations in the presence of the Duke and Duchess of Kent, and by the Federal Government to produce the Royal Bicentennial Concert in the presence of the Prince and Princess of Wales. In 1989 he presented the sell-out concert event Legends of Rock.
In 1995 he was the first promoter outside the USA to be invited by the Disney organization to present the stage version of Beauty and the Beast. Its run of two years in Melbourne and 15 months in Sydney grossed $58 million. Also that year he produced the television series Gladiators for the Seven Network. The gross takings for his 1997 presentation of The Three Tenors at the Melbourne Cricket Ground were the largest in Australian history for a single concert – $15 million. In 1999 he presented The Bee Gees – One Night Only, the first live performance at Stadium Australia – the Olympic Stadium.
In 2000 Barbra Streisand’s four stadium concerts in Sydney and Melbourne achieved the highest grosses anywhere in the world for this artist, more than $23 million. The year 2001 brought Shout! – The Legend of the Wild One, an all-Australian production based on the life of Jacobsen’s old friend, Johnny O’Keefe. It toured Australia to record crowds, winning Mo and Green Room Awards and an ARIA for Best Cast Album. In 2002 Jacobsen presented a sell-out Elton John concert tour, plus Fame – The Musical, which toured throughout Asia, and two sensationally successful arena shows: the classic Australian rock anthology Long Way to the Top and the brilliantly innovative The Man from Snowy River Arena Spectacular.
Other Jacobsen theatrical ventures have included Oscar Wilde’s Diversions and Delights, Girls’ Night Out, A Chorus Line, Camelot (with Richard Harris), Lend Me a Tenor, Return to the Forbidden Planet, Walt Disney’s World on Ice and Stars of the Bolshoi Ballet, as well as massive open-air productions of Aida and Turandot.
Among the many artists who have toured under the Jacobsen banner are Slim Whitman, KISS, Simon and Garfunkel, Bob Marley, Shania Twain, Billy Joel, John Denver, Pearl Jam, Cyndi Lauper, Julio Iglesias, Ba
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| 11 Dec 2019 | Theatre Historian - Ivan King | 00:47:42 | |
In a boutique space, below His Majesty's Theatre in Perth is a vast collection of arts heritage. It celebrates and recalls the immense cultural past of live performance through Western Australia.
The Museum of Performing Arts was founded in 2001 by Perth's living treasure, Mr Ivan King. The seed germinated in the 70's when 'The Maj' closed for refurbishment and Ivan commenced collecting materials. The collection would contribute to an essential story that would inform audiences and practitioners of today. An essential reminder of what had gone before.
The Museum of Performing Arts houses more than 40,000 catalogued items of theatre memorabilia and includes costumes, photographs, scripts and scores - the ghostly 'footprints' of artists such as Gladys Moncrieff, Margot Fonteyn, Katherine Hepburn, Anna Pavlova and Dame Nellie Melba echo through the theatre where the museum is home.
It takes a unique identity with a keen eye, a huge passion and a broad knowledge of the Arts to gather, curate and maintain such a collection. Ivan King is a most genial host and celebrant. He is a veteran of over 100 plays, musicals and theatre events as actor, writer and director.
As the founder of the Museum of Performing Arts he has created to date, 54 exhibitions highlighting the history of entertainment in Perth.
Ivan sat down with Stages in Dressing Room Number One at His Majesty's Theatre. The anecdotes flew thick and fast, always demonstrating an enormous passion for the theatre and the people who make it.
Stages is available from iTunes, Spotify and Whooshkaa.
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| 18 Feb 2023 | The STAGES Podcast - World Pride Series - Drag Divas, Legends and Icons; Oh My! - BOB DOWNE | 01:02:59 | |
It’s World Pride 2023 and the queer globe is converging on Sydney Australia to celebrate diversity, inclusion, community and fabulousness! To mark this momentous event the STAGES podcast is saluting the cast of captivating drag divas and personalities who have been featured on the podcast during the past 5 seasons. They are artists who have appeared on national and global stages; thrilling audiences, making a difference, healing community and expressing unique and wondrous talents. We spotlight these episodes so you can savour a second listen - or so you can sample the delights of these entertainers for the very first time. A Diva a day for each day of World Pride! One of Australia’s most loved and enduring comedy characters, Bob Downe, is the creation of journalist, comedian, actor and broadcaster Mark Trevorrow. Born in Melbourne, Mark started his working life at 17 as a copyboy with The Sun News-Pictorial, before co-founding cabaret comedy group The Globos, who released two Australian Top 20 hit singles, Tintarella di Luna (1982) and The Beat Goes On (1983). He created Bob Downe in1984 and has toured the world as the Prince of Polyester ever since. Bob’s stage shows have played to acclaim at the Edinburgh Fringe, Adelaide Cabaret Festival and the Melbourne International Comedy Festival, with decades of touring across Australia and the UK including P&O Comedy Cruises and performing for the Queen at the Royal Variety Performance. Bob’s TV appearances range from Countdown to The Project, from the Mike Walsh Show to Studio 10, and hosting multiple Sydney Mardi Gras broadcasts. As Mark he has been heard regularly on ABC local radio and presented The Way We Were, a ratings winner on ABC TV in 2004. He was also featured regularly on Kath & Kim as ‘Darryl’ the menswear salesman. Bob's comedy/chat series, The Bob Downe Show (Foxtel/ TV1), went to air in December 2000. Bob Downe's national theatre tours, Whiter! Brighter!, Cold August Night and iBob have been sellouts everywhere, including the Sydney Opera House and the State Theatre. Mark Trevorrow and Rupert Noffs perform their show, ‘Old Friends’ at Claire’s Kitchen at Le Salon on Monday February 20th and Tuesday February 21st. Bookings at wwwclaireskitchen.com.au The STAGES podcast is available from Apple podcasts, Spotify and from where you find your favourite podcasts. Tune in daily for a history of drag in Sydney. Tell your friends, share the podcast, relish the stories and embrace your own sense of Pride. | |||
| 10 Apr 2021 | 'Say My Name' - Actor, Writer and Broadway Composer, Eddie Perfect | 01:18:53 | |
Eddie Perfect is one of Australia's most diverse, respected and prolific writer/ composer/ performers. His most recent work as Composer of Beetlejuice - the Musical on Broadway won him a nomination for Best Original Score at the 2019 Tony Awards.
He has made his mark in the fields of comedy, music theatre composition and book writing, playwriting, screenwriting, classical music, jazz and acting for stage and screen. He has won multiple awards for his work both as a performer and writer and has worked with top creatives from Baz Luhrmann and Global Creatures (Strictly Ballroom the Musical, King Kong on Broadway), Simon Phillips and Neil Armfield (Shane Warne The Musical, Keating! The Musical), Richard Maltby and David Shire, Jason Robert Brown, Andrew Lippa (Adelaide Cabaret Festival) to the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra (MSO Town Hall Proms), Victorian Opera (The Threepenny Opera), Opera Australia (South Pacific), the West Australian Symphony Orchestra (Symphony Under The Stars), Malthouse Theatre (Babes In The Wood, Drink Pepsi Bitch, The Big Con) the Australian National Academy Of Music, Iain Grandage and UK's Brodsky Quartet (Songs From The Middle).
In this captivating episode of STAGES, Eddie provides insight to the gestation of Beetlejuice - the Musical and generously shares his approach to composition. It is a fascinating process and a brilliant career. 'Say his name!" Here's Eddie!
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| 31 Jul 2024 | STAGES Episode 508: ANGELA PUNCH MCGREGOR | 00:51:02 | |
Angela Punch McGregor graduated from the National Institute of Dramatic Art in 1974. Her early roles were in a renaissance period of Australian cinema, with lauded performances that garnered her a slew of AFI Awards, for the films The Chant of Jimmy Blacksmith, Newsfront, and Annie’s Coming Out. Her career continued in numerous television production and stage roles, working for most of the country’s main-stage theatre companies. Angela’s television credits include Mary - The Making of a Princess, Love My Way, Rafferty’s Rules, Halifax, All Saints, White Collar Blue, and Home & Away. Further film work includes We of the Never Never, Savages Crossing, The Delinquents, Spotswood, Tom White, Ash Wednesday and Runt. Celebrated turns in the theatre includes A Streetcar Named Desire (Blanche), Festen (Else), Long Days Journey Into Night (Mary Tyrone), Summer Of The Seventeenth Doll (Pearl), Les Liaisons Dangereuses (Marquise de Merteuil), Great Expectations (Miss Havisham), The Odd Couple (Female version opposite Pamela Stephenson) Romeo & Juliet (opposite Mel Gibson), Up For Grabs (Felicity), Blackrock (Diane) and Othello (Desdemona). Angela is a respected mentor and teacher, guiding young artists to a career on stage and screen. She held the position of Lecturer in Acting at the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts from 2006-2014. Further teaching has been at NIDA, The Actor’s Centre Sydney and the Actor’s Hub Perth. As a Counsellor, her new venture is with the online resource; Soul Repair - a home for counselling, community and care. A space to foster continuity and growth. Angela Punch McGregor joins STAGES to reflect on her brilliant career thus far, and the journey ahead. https://www.soulrepair.com.au | |||
| 10 Aug 2022 | ‘Look Who’s Here!’ - Stage and Television Legend; Hazel Phillips | 01:02:22 | |
Hazel Phillips is an authentic entertainment legend in the Australian landscape. At the age of 92, she has achieved tremendous longevity in a career that is notoriously precarious. She has conquered screens and stages, as an actor and singer. She has hosted and presented; painted, written and composed. All delivered with inspirational resilience and immense personality. She has appeared on television since its inception. Her many credits include the original Beauty and the Beast and The Mavis Bramston Show. Her own talk show, Girl Talk, was the first midday show on television and ran daily for four years. The program took her to Hollywood for a series of celebrity interviews that included Bing Crosby, Paul Newman, Omar Shariff and Fess Parker. Girl Talk made Hazel the most popular female personality on Australian television and in 1967 she was awarded the gold and bronze Logies. Since then, she has appeared in every branch of the media - TV, films, theatre, cabaret, radio and journalism. Hazel has written, starred and appeared in three musicals of her own, as well as thirty other musicals and several movies. She has appeared in plays for Queensland Theatre Company, including leads in The Circle, Pride and Prejudice, Shakespeare's Henry V and The Merry Wives of Windsor. For J.C. Williamsons, Hazel played Adriana in the Rodgers and Hart musical, The Boys from Syracuse. Hazel has recently completed movie and television projects and declares that the word ‘retirement’ is not in her vocabulary. She was awarded the OAM in the 2005 Queen's Birthday Honours for her contribution to television and the entertainment industry. The STAGES podcast is available to access and subscribe from Spotify and Apple podcasts. Or from wherever you access your favourite podcasts. A conversation with creatives about craft and career. Recipient of Best New Podcast at 2019 Australian Podcast Awards. Follow socials on instagram (stagespodcast) and facebook (Stages). | |||
| 01 Dec 2019 | Perth-based Actor - Michael Loney | 00:54:50 | |
Michael Loney has accumulated an extensive repertoire of roles having appeared in over 150 stage productions, ranging from the classics to contemporary Australian and international fare. It was at school that a teacher identified emerging talent and encouraged him to pursue acting.
He grew up in Perth, and as a young man ventured to the UK to study at the Bristol Old Vic. WAAPA wasn't even a thought yet! Upon graduation, roles in Coronation Street and Howard's Way came Michael's way.
He returned to Perth in 1988 and acted in a variety of shows at the Playhouse, Black Swan and the Hole in the Wall Theatre. These included Sweeney Todd: the Demon Barber of Fleet Street, A Midsummer Night's Dream, The Seagull, Heartbreak House, Noel and Gertie, Speaking in Tongues, The Club and The Goat, or Who is Sylvia?
His film and television work has embraced WA production in the series' Ship to Shore, Minty, Cloudstreet and The Great Mint Swindle.
He has relished the experiences of working with Perth Directors Edgar Metcalfe, John Milson and Ray Omedei. Passionate practitioners with individual and informed directing styles, who all contributed to a vital theatre scene in Perth. It is a treat to celebrate them in this episode through shared reminiscence.
As an actor Michael is incredibly engaging and intelligent, on-stage and off. He is incredibly charming and eloquent; and in this episode he reflects on considerable experiences in the theatre and the immense contribution, that Perth based actors like himself, have made to the community.
The Stages podcast is available in iTunes, Spotify and Whooshkaa.
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| 13 Nov 2019 | 'Actor Training' - Nigel Rideout | 00:53:15 | |
As an actor, teacher and writer, Nigel Rideout has been involved in professional theatre, film and television for the past 50 years in the UK, USA and Australia.
From 1972-80, Nigel was Deputy Principal and Director of Studies at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA). In 1981 he was invited to create the highly successful theatre department of the newly-formed Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts (WAAPA).
He has been Head of Theatre and Voice at the Central School of Speech and Drama, and Head of Voice at the Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts in London. Returning to Australia in 2002, Nigel set up the official archives for WAAPA as well as continuing to teach and direct at the Academy, as well as at The National Theatre Drama School in Melbourne.
His many successful graduates in the UK include Jane Seymour, Martin Clunes, Nigel Planer, Amy Irving and Dame Harriet Walter. And from WAAPA: Hugh Jackman, Frances O'Connor, Dominic Purcell and Lisa McCune.
Amazingly Nigel still receives annual repeat fees for a role in the first series of Dad's Army recorded in 1968.
Join us for a riveting conversation where he describes the evolution of Acting training and the emergence of WAAPA; the triumphant training ground for artists, built on the West Coast of Australia.
The Stages podcast is available from iTunes, Spotify and Whooshkaa.
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| 06 Sep 2023 | ‘Broadway Spotlight’ - Leading Man; Hayden Tee | 01:06:42 | |
Tune in to a Broadway Spotlight edition of the STAGES podcast. A Spotlight replay brought to you by Academy Travel - a leading specialist in small-group cultural tours. Hayden Tee is currently touring Australia in the new Musical phenomenon - & Juliet. But he is no stranger to appearing on the stages of the West End and Broadway. His triumphant turn as Inspector Javert in Les Miserables won many accolades around the globe before Hayden played the role on the Broadway stage. Hayden Tee joined STAGES in December 2019. When STAGES caught up with Hayden Tee, he had just released an exciting album called Hayden Tee: Face To Face. The recording features a full orchestra backing with Hayden delivering musical theatre favourites and also capturing a few of the dynamic performances he has given in a stellar career. | |||
| 17 Mar 2025 | STAGES Episode 551: GRAEME EWER Pt2 | 01:00:30 | |
Australia’s best known character tenor, Graeme Ewer, was born in Melbourne and appeared in the Australian Premiere Season of South Pacific in the role of Jerome - at age twelve! He studied voice with a handful of teachers in Melbourne including Gertrude Johnston and Annie Portnoj – competing in various singing competitions where he was a finalist in the 1952 popular radio variety contest Australia’s Amateur Hour. In 1964 and 1965, he performed in three opera productions for Victorian Opera Company, then began a two year contract as Alfred Barrett in Robert and Elizabeth for the Garnet H Carroll Management. In 1966/67, Graeme Ewer performed in The King and I, Annie Get Your Gun and The Music Man for Brett Adams Tent Theatre. The following year, he joined The Australian Elizabethan Trust Opera Company (which became The Australian Opera and, later, Opera Australia) where he enjoyed a thirty-five-year career performing seventy-seven roles. He was an audience favourite and was a master of characterisation and comic timing. His four roles (Andres, Cochenille, Pitichinaccio & Frantz) in Offenbach’s Les Contes d’Hoffmann were unique, unsurpassed successes – as was his Njegus in The Merry Widow. He performed in Les Contes d’Hoffmann for San Diego Opera in 1994 and in The Merry Widow for Vancouver Opera in 1976 – both at the invitation of conductor Richard Bonynge. A career highlight was performing the title role in Albert Herring at a Royal Command Performance at the Sydney Opera House but, one imagines that Tom Rakewell in The Rake’s Progress and Gustav von Aschenbach in Death in Venice (rarities in his performing repertoire) were personal highlights. Graeme Ewer appears on numerous commercial recordings and DVDs. He was awarded a Member, Order of Australia, AM, in 1994 and received the Opera Australia Trophy 2001. His dedication to his craft and the operatic art-form has been a lesson to at least two generations of performers. Graeme’s career defines him as one of the jewels in the crown of opera in Australia. (Text courtesy Brian Castles-Onion) The STAGES podcast is available to access and subscribe from Spotify and Apple podcasts. Or from wherever you access your favourite podcasts. A conversation with creatives about craft and career. Follow socials on instagram (stagespodcast) and facebook (Stages). | |||
| 08 Apr 2020 | 'The Business of Creating Memories' - Creative Director and Event Producer, Gill Minervini | 00:58:03 | |
For over 30 years Gill Minervini has produced some of Australia's most engaging and successful international events and festivals, creating unforgettable, immersive experiences for diverse audiences.
She is one of Australia's creative leaders - from festival , event and theatre director to television and radio presenter, food curator and producer - Gill's experience means successful delivery of outstanding creative ideas, every time.
Early creative roles included a position as the inaugural Festival Director for the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras in the late 1980's; an extraordinary time for the gay community.
For 17 years she was Creative Director for the City of Sydney, overseeing annual events that included Chinese New Year and Christmas celebrations.
The canvases on which she creates are vast and varied. Her event, festival and theatre accomplishments include The Rugby League World Cup 2017, Art Moves - a Public Art Project, Newtown Festival, Barangaroo Welcome Celebrations, Winter Feast Dark MoFo inTasmania and the Australian Theatre of the Deaf. Such product also allows her a plethora of platforms on which to present such expansive production.
A mantra she shares with her teams states they are 'in the business of creating memories'. All of us can recall the first time we shared in the palpable experience of a particular event or festival. An immersion amongst community and the theatre of life. Vital experiences that feed into the human condition.
Gill Minervini loves her job and communicating stories. It's obvious in this conversation. She provides insight, reflection and passion for the craft of making Big Art and telling vital stories with a broad palette.
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| 18 Jul 2020 | 'A Show that's so Splendiferous' - Set and Scenic Designer, Brian Thomson - Part2 | 01:02:30 | |
Brian Thomson is approaching his 50th year as a Set Designer, contributing to a vast number of productions and platforms globally. He is Australia's most prolific designer, creating scenic worlds to tell stories across a range of platforms - theatre, opera, film, musical and concert.
In this companion episode of Stages we revisit his work with Barry Humphries and Kylie Minogue, and the staging of Priscilla Queen of the Desert - the musical, in theatres around the world. Along the way he has collected a Tony Award and worked with a host of great talents. He has designed for large canvases and small spaces. Recent work ranges from the intimacy of The Old Fitz theatre with Krapp's Last Tape to La Traviata on Sydney Harbour, which alas succumbed to Covid's tragic interruption.
Brian is eloquent, engaging and erudite, providing fascinating insight into the work of the Designer, and also anecdote from vital contributions to the Arts across several decades.
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| 03 Nov 2021 | 'The Talent Box' - Talent Agent/Manager, Sonya Marturano | 00:47:11 | |
Sonya Marturano has been a leading actor's Agent/Manager for over 20 years. She began her career at Kids Casting Agency in 1997 where she worked for 3 years and then opened up her own agency and talent studio in 2001.
The Fame Talent Management & Studios operated for 7 years and in 2008 Sonya joined the team at Random Management, where where she has been actively involved in management for the past 12 years. She has worked with many young actors in developing them for stage and screen.
Having her own children involved in the entertainment business, she knows very well what it's like to be a parent of a young performer. She is aware of the sacrifices made to give children the opportunities to help them succeed in a challenging industry.
Talent Box is the Youth Division of Random Talent Management. They are Australia's leading youth talent agency specialising in the development of young talent for the stage & screen.
The talented client base at Random Management and Talent Box have worked locally and Internationally.
Sonya provides an insightful look at the work of an Actor's Agent, and candid advice to the young performer, and their parents, considering a career as an actor.
The STAGES podcast is available from Apple podcasts, Spotify and Whooshkaa. Also where you find your favourite podcasts. www.stagespodcast.com.au
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| 27 Apr 2024 | ‘… Full of Game’ - Actor/Manager/Artistic Director; Damien Ryan | 00:52:29 | |
Damien Ryan is managing director and artistic director of Sport for Jove Theatre Company, now in its twelfth year, where he has directed more than 30 productions, written and developed three new works and adapted over a dozen plays. The company has a comprehensive education program developed by Damien, and works with tens of thousands of Australian students annually at secondary and tertiary levels. Damien has worked extensively with Shakespeare, performing in or directing over 70 productions in Australia and overseas, and has worked as actor, director and writer across Australia’s major companies including STC, MTC, Bell Shakespeare, Belvoir, Sydney Festival, Canberra Theatre Centre, Brisbane Festival and Queensland Theatre, and in the independent sector in Sydney. Recent directing credits include, Venus & Adonis (a feature film), Romeo & Juliet, The Crucible, The Father, Hamlet, Henry V, Henry IV Parts 1&2, Romeo & Juliet, Rose Riot, Merchant of Venice, Antigone, Antony and Cleopatra, The River at the End of the Road, Cyrano de Bergerac, No End of Blame, Othello, The Tempest, Romeo & Juliet, Away, The Taming of the Shrew, Macbeth, Loves Labour’s Lost, The Importance of Being Earnest, The Crucible, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, All’s Well That Ends Well, Twelfth Night, The Libertine, Look Back in Anger. Acting credits include Venus & Adonis, Othello, Romeo & Juliet, Life of Galileo, Twelfth Night, Nora; As You Like It, Antony and Cleopatra, Richard 3, Comedy of Errors, Hamlet; Crime and Punishment, Under Milk Wood; Mother Courage, Isolde and Tristan, Hamlet and King Lear. Damien has two award-winning play adaptations (Antigone and Cyrano de Bergerac) published with Currency Press. From May 1st to June 1st, Sport for Jove’s production of ISOLDE and TRISTAN plays the Old Fitz theatre in Sydney - and it is directed by today’s featured guest - Damien Ryan. The STAGES podcast is available to access and subscribe from Spotify and Apple podcasts. Or from wherever you access your favourite podcasts. A conversation with creatives about craft and career. Follow socials on instagram (stagespodcast) and facebook (Stages). | |||
| 25 Mar 2021 | 'House Seat' - Opera Australia Artistic Director, Lyndon Terracini | 01:23:18 | |
Lyndon Terracini is the Artistic Director of Opera Australia. He has also enjoyed a highly successful, international opera career; and received accolades as an actor, director and writer. He is a renaissance man!
Lyndon was appointed Artistic Director and CEO of the Queensland Music Festival in 2000 and directed the 2001, 2003 and 2005 festivals. He was appointed Artistic Director/CEO of Brisbane Festival in 2005 and Artistic Director/CEO of Major Brisbane Festivals in November 2007.
He is the recipient of many awards including an Honorary Doctorate in Music Theatre by Central Queensland University, a Fellowship by the Music Fund of the Australia Council for the Arts, an Honorary D. Univ. from Southern Cross University and the Dame Elisabeth Murdoch Cultural Leadership Award by the Australian Business Arts Foundation (AbaF). In 2005 Lyndon Terracini was also appointed Adjunct Professor at the University of Queensland. In 2007 he was awarded a D.Univ. from Queensland University of Technology (QUT).
Lyndon was also a member of the International Jury for the Venice Biennale for Music and Savonlinna Opera Festival, and delivered the 2011 Peggy Glanville-Hicks address. His service to the performing arts as an opera performer, director and administrator was recognised in 2014 with a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in the Queen's Birthday Honours. In 2018 Lyndon was awarded one of the highest civilian honours in Italy, Commander of the Order of the Star of Italy (Commendatore dell'Ordine della Stella d'Italia).
It is an impressive list of accolades and they make him admirably equipped to steer the cultural flagship of Opera Australia. The 2021 season of Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour is about to commence with a lavish production of La Traviata. Lyndon elaborates on his introduction of this elaborate staging of opera and how it has grown to become one of the most anticipated on the cultural calendar. He also describes navigating the company through a pandemic and reflects on a sterling career as performer and producer, in this joyous episode of STAGES.
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| 28 Aug 2019 | Actor's Agent - Mark Morrissey | 01:00:24 | |
Mark Morrissey is one of the elders of the Agent profession in Australia. Now in his 34th year, Morrissey Management represents and guides the careers of many of our finest actors on local and world stages.
Morrissey began his career as an actor in television shows like Rafferty's Rules, Sons and Daughters and Prisoner; a perfect vantage point to garner essential experience by observing work behind the camera. The knowledge acquired would inform his ambition and understanding, ultimately propelling him into a position as one of the country's best.
As this week's guest, he reflects on how the role of the Agent has changed over past decades and how it prepares for a changing media landscape moving forward. He has a breadth of experience, he is generous with his support of talent and ever keen to create new and exciting work.
In creating work, Morrissey has also served as Executive Producer on a number of ventures including the documentaries Molly: The Real Thing and The Road to Freedom Peak, the television mini-series Molly, and the programs Sarah's Channel and Boys in the Trees.
A meeting with Mark is met with charm, calm and a keen desire to contribute to an ever evolving industry.
Available in iTunes, Spotify and Whooshkaa.
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| 07 Nov 2020 | 'The People's Diva' - Operatic Soprano and Prima Artiste, Joan Carden, AO, OBE | 01:18:20 | |
Joan Carden was born in Melbourne in 1937 on the anniversary of the great composer Giuseppe Verdi's birth. After understudying June Bronhill as 'The Merry Widow' in 1960, Joan Carden sought tuition in London studying with her major musical influence, London-trained and based, West Australian-born, multi-lingual, expatriate vocal coach, Vida Harford.
Joan Carden appeared in opera and concerts in Europe before initially joining The Australian Opera in concerts in 1970. The following year marked her stage debut with the company as 'Liu' in Turandot and 'Marguerite' in Faust. After much acclaim in Australia as 'Gilda' in Rigoletto she was invited to repeat the role at Covent Garden. Engagements ensued throughout the United Kingdom and United States.
Joan Carden has sung virtually all the Mozart heroines. Her performance of 'Violetta' in Verdi's La Traviata has been noted for the moving interpretation. Her voice in 'Violetta's' famous aria, is on the sound track of the film Priscilla, Queen of The Desert.
She has sung more than 50 major roles from the 18th century through to contemporary works , including: 'Desdemona' (Otello); 'Leonora' in both Il Trovatore and La Forza del Destino; 'Elisabetta' (both Don Carlos and Maria Stuarda); 'Rosalinde' in Die Fledermaus, 'Feldmarschallin' (Der Rosenkavalier) and 'Ellen Orford' (Peter Grimes); 'Tatyana' (Yevgeny Onyegin)- in Russian and English. Other title roles include Alcina, Lakme, and Adriana Lecouvreur.
She has embraced Musical Theatre performances as Mother Abbess in the Gordon/ Frost Organisation's The Sound of Music and Ida Strauss in Titanic. In 2003, she took on a last role for Opera Australia - 'Public Opinion' based on controversial political figure, Pauline Hanson, in a satirical new version of Orpheus in the Underworld.
Joan Carden is engaging grace and charm. She reflects warmly on a career that has not only brought audiences great joy but also rewarded her, in the ability to gift the art of song.
The Stages podcast is available from Apple podcasts, Spotify, Whooshkaa and where all good podcasts are found.
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| 20 Nov 2024 | STAGES Episode 535: EMMA RICE | 00:45:27 | |
Australian audiences over the past two decades have been thrilled by the periodic performances directed by dynamic UK theatre visionary, Emma Rice. Productions of Tristan & Yseult, The Red Shoes and Brief Encounter have enthralled attendees at Sydney and Melbourne Festivals. She returns to our shores in January 2025 with her company Wise Children and an acclaimed production of Wuthering Heights, playing an exclusive and limited Sydney season prior to a South East Asian tour. Anyone who has ever seen an Emma Rice production knows that we are to be treated by another glorious experience of consummate story-telling. Emma Rice is the proud Artistic Director of her company, Wise Children, and an internationally respected theatre-maker and director. For Wise Children, Emma has adapted and directed the productions The Buddha of Suburbia, Blue Beard, The Little Matchgirl and Happier Tales, Wuthering Heights, Bagdad Cafe, Romantics Anonymous, Enid Blyton’s Malory Towers and Angela Carter’s Wise Children. As Artistic Director of Shakespeare’s Globe: Romantics Anonymous, Twelfth Night, A Midsummer Night’s Dream and The Little Matchgirl (and Other Happier Tales). As joint Artistic Director of Kneehigh: The Flying Lovers of Vitebsk, Tristan & Yseult, 946: The Amazing Story of Adolphus Tips, The Wild Bride, The Red Shoes, The Wooden Frock, The Bacchae, Cymbeline (in association with RSC), A Matter of Life and Death (in association with National Theatre), Rapunzel (in association with Battersea Arts Centre); Brief Encounter (in association with David Pugh and Dafydd Rogers Productions); Don John (in association with the RSC and Bristol Old Vic); Wah! Wah! Girls (in association with Sadler’s Wells and Theatre Royal Stratford East for World Stages); Steptoe and Son and the West End production of Umbrellas of Cherbourg. Emma received the Outstanding Contribution to British Theatre award at the 2019 UK Theatre Awards and in 2022 was named one of Sky Arts’ ‘50 most influential British artists of the last 50 years’. The STAGES podcast is available to access and subscribe from Spotify and Apple podcasts. Or from wherever you access your favourite podcasts. A conversation with creatives about craft and career. Follow socials on instagram (stagespodcast) and facebook (Stages). | |||
| 11 Mar 2020 | 'Suit the action to the Word, the Word to the Action' - Retired NIDA Artistic Director, John Clark AM | 01:21:20 | |
John Clark was born in Tasmania and his first intention was to be an archeologist. However, it was the theatre that called and provided Clark with an illustrious career as a theatre-maker and teacher. His greatest triumph is an indelible turn as Director of the National Institute of Dramatic Art. For 40 years he guided and nurtured generations of practitioners who would become crucial contributors to our Theatre, Film and Television industries.
He studied theatre at the Bristol Old Vic Theatre school and at Bristol University, where he designed the set for the first production of Harold Pinter's play - The Room. A series of firsts would decorate his career as a director, delivering productions of Death of a Salesman in Hobart, a premiere production of Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf? and a landmark Sydney season of Don's Party.
He played pivotal roles with the Old Tote Theatre and the Jane Street Theatre at a time when a new Australian voice was being developed in playwriting and an authentic style for the Australian actor.
When the Old Tote Theatre Company ceased operation, Clark together with Elizabeth Butcher, became the Sydney Theatre Company's initial Artistic Director and Administrator, overseeing an interim season in the Drama Theatre at the Sydney Opera House.
His contribution to defining 'an Australian theatre' on local and international stages is vast. He is one of our great champions and a man of tremendous charm and infinite story. It was indeed a privilege and a joy to spend some time with John Clark.
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| 02 Mar 2025 | STAGES Episode 544: TOM BURLINSON | 01:00:43 | |
After graduating from NIDA in 1976, Tom Burlinson’s early work in various productions for the Queensland Theatre Company, the Old Tote Theatre Company, and the State Theatre Company of South Australia included roles in The Merchant of Venice, Da and The One Day of the Year. He co-starred in Tribute for Peter Williams Productions in Sydney and Brisbane and played continuing roles in the TV series Kirbys’ Company (ABC) and The Restless Years (Grundy Organisation). In 1981 Tom was cast in the title role in the feature film The Man from Snowy River. It was an enormous box office success, and led to Tom being offered a succession of leading roles in Australian and international films and mini-series over the next several years. These included Phar Lap, Eureka Stockade, Flesh and Blood, Windrider, Piece of Cake, and The Legend of Kootenai Brown (aka Showdown at Williams Creek) as well as The Man from Snowy River I I (aka Return to Snowy River). In 1991 Tom sang the voice of the young Frank Sinatra in the Warner Brothers mini-series Sinatra. This was his first professional singing engagement! Soon thereafter he returned to the stage to star in the Gordon Frost production of How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying. He was soon working on the international scene again in the mini-series The Way to Dusty Death, filmed in Europe. In 1995 renowned theatre director Gale Edwards cast Tom in a leading role in the acclaimed workshop production of the Australian musical Miracle City for the Sydney Theatre Company. The following year he was given another chance to further develop his musical abilities in Stephen Sondheim’s Merrily We Roll Along, again for the STC. In 1997 Tom hosted the TV series Animal Hospital for the Nine Network. He then appeared in concert at Taronga Zoo in A Tribute to Frank Sinatra. This prompted Tom to create Frank – A Life in Song, under its original title of Frank – The Sinatra Story in Song. On screen, Tom again provided the voice of Frank Sinatra, this time for the Australian feature film The Night We Called It A Day, starring Dennis Hopper as Frank. Tom was cast in the role of Leo Bloom in the Mel Brooks’ musical The Producers, which played for more than 500 performances in Melbourne, Brisbane and Sydney during 2004 and 2005. In May 2006, Tom was asked to return to the Star City Showroom with Frank-More from a Life in Song, a sequel to the first show, with lots of new songs from the marvellous Sinatra repertoire as well as many of the all-time favourites. In 2019 Tom returned to the musical theatre stage as an actor in the role of the unscrupulous lawyer Billy Flynn in the musical Chicago in seasons at the Capitol Theatre in Sydney and the Lyric Theatre, Brisbane. Tom Burlinson performs Still Swingin’ at the Frankston Arts Centre on Sunday March 9th. The STAGES podcast is available to access and subscribe from Spotify and Apple podcasts. Or from wherever you access your favourite podcasts. A conversation with creatives about craft and career. Follow socials on instagram (stagespodcast) and facebook (Stages). | |||
| 21 Nov 2018 | Singer/Actor - Rod Dunbar | 01:05:26 | |
Rod Dunbar has relished a life in the theatre. As a boy from Rockhampton he ventured south to Sydney and quickly established himself as an in-demand vocalist.
He became a regular on channel 7's SING SING SING, hosted by Johnny O'Keefe. Rod toured the country, doing gigs with other high profile entertainers and attracted attention everywhere, due to national exposure through the new medium of television.
Looking to expand the possibilities of his career, Rod was soon spotted by J.C. Williamson's Betty Pounder - and encouraged to pursue a career in musical theatre. Early work consisted of Rodgers & Hammerstein's CINDERELLA, THE BOYS FROM SYRACUSE and OLIVER; growing into an extensive career performing in productions of CHICAGO, COMPANY and MERRILY WE ROLL ALONG for the Sydney Theatre Company, tours of ARE YOU LONESOME TONIGHT, SOUTH PACIFIC, BIG RIVER and SHOUT - his most recent performance being DIRTY DANCING. Along the way he experienced personal triumphs in the Original Australian productions of a YOU'RE A GOOD MAN CHARLIE BROWN and GODSPELL.
I spent a delightful Sunday afternoon with Rod as he reflected on an extensive career and offered advice on the longevity behind it. And reflected on the disappointment, when an industry you love, retires you. He is a font of knowledge and an engaging raconteur.
Ladies and gentlemen - Mr Rod Dunbar
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| 28 Nov 2022 | ‘The Showman’ - Arts Reviewers and Ardent Audience Members; Simon Parris and Ian Phipps | 01:19:49 | |
As a teen I religiously tuned into a weekly program broadcast nationally on ABC radio. This program, was the ‘go to’ source for everyone to learn the latest theatre news. This treasure trove program was called ‘The Showman’ and was hosted by a celebrated announcer called John West. Demonstrating an enormous appreciation for the theatre and the arts, West was able to combine his profession and passion through ‘The Showman’. Other than subscribing to monthly theatre magazines, and without the existence of the www, this much anticipated weekly radio broadcast was our window to what was happening on stages around Australia; and also carried news from New York and London. Correspondents such as Terry Hughes and Stan Pretty would enthusiastically provide details and description of what was ‘the latest’ from Broadway and West End theatres. Via the platform of radio, and through informed and passionate announcers, the show ignited imagination and informed intensely to those listening from afar. Two of STAGES favourite Arts workers have recently returned from pilgrimages to New York and London and delved into the latest in musicals and plays on the Broadway and West End stages. And they join us in this episode to provide first-hand insight and some degrees of envy in their descriptions of what we could expect, if finding ourselves in these theatre meccas over coming months. Simon Parris is a theatre reviewer based in Melbourne. His review blog ‘Man in Chair’ regularly reviews musicals, plays, opera and the arts. Access to these reviews can be found at simonparrismaninchair.com Ian Phipps is one of Australia’s leading publicists, promoting theatre and its stars around Australia. If you know that a show is happening, no doubt it’s because Ian has communicated this to you via a myriad of masterful means. This episode of STAGES is dedicated to ‘The Showman’ program, and John West, for inspiring, informing and igniting the imagination of theatre fans, around the country, from 1964 to 1990. While also being a terrific round-up of present production around the globe, and what we can expect on Australian stages in 2023. The STAGES podcast is available to access and subscribe from Spotify and Apple podcasts. Or from wherever you access your favourite podcasts. A conversation with creatives about craft and career. Recipient of Best New Podcast at 2019 Australian Podcast Awards. Follow socials on instagram (stagespodcast) and facebook (Stages). | |||
| 19 Mar 2024 | ‘Time to Learn, Time to Care’ - Celebrated Opera and Theatre Director; Francesca Zambello | 00:43:25 | |
Francesca Zambello is an internationally recognised director of opera and theatre. She is the Artistic Director of The Washington National Opera at the Kennedy Center; a role she has occupied since 2012. In 2022 she retired from a celebrated role as the General Director of The Glimmerglass Festival in Cooperstown, N.Y., having been appointed in 2010. Francesca has also served as the Artistic Advisor to the San Francisco Opera from 2005–2011 and as the Artistic Director of the Skylight Theatre from 1987–1992. She has since staged new productions at major theatres, festivals and opera houses in Asia, Australia, South America, Europe and the USA. Collaborating with outstanding artists and designers and promoting emerging talent, she takes a special interest in new music theatre works, innovative productions, and in producing theatre and opera for wider audiences. Francesca Zambello has been awarded the Chevalier des Arts et des Lettres by the French government for her contribution to French culture and the Russian Federation’s medal for Service to Culture. Other honours for her work include three Olivier Awards from the London Society of Theatres and two Evening Standard Awards. The French Grand Prix des Critiques was awarded to her twice for her work at the Paris Opera. She has received the Medallion Society Award from the San Francisco Opera recognizing 30 years of work for the company. For Opera Australia, Francesca Zambello directed the 2012 Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour production of La Traviata, as well as The Love for Three Oranges in 2016, and West Side Story on Sydney Harbour in 2019, for which she received the Helpmann Award for best direction of a musical. Ms. Zambello has also served as an adjunct professor at Yale University. An American who grew up in Europe, she speaks French, Italian, German, and Russian. She began her career as an Assistant Director to the late Jean-Pierre Ponnelle. Francesca Zambello lives in New York with her wife, Faith Gay, a founding partner of Selendy & Gay and son, Jackson. The STAGES podcast is available to access and subscribe from Spotify and Apple podcasts. Or from wherever you access your favourite podcasts. A conversation with creatives about craft and career. Follow socials on instagram (stagespodcast) and facebook (Stages).www.stagespodcast.com.au | |||
| 22 Jun 2024 | ‘Stories on a Grand Scale’ - Opera Singer; Warwick Fyfe | 00:59:05 | |
Warwick Fyfe is an Australian opera singer, considered to be one of Australia’s leading exponents of the Wagnerian repertoire and is the recipient of Helpmann and Green Room awards. | |||
| 04 Mar 2020 | "Long Distance Runner' - Arts Administrator: Robert Love | 01:16:52 | |
Robert Love is the Director of the City of Parramatta's Riverside Theatres; a role he relishes, overseeing one of the most highly attended venues in the country. In addition to his role in Administration, he might be changing a light-bulb or pitching in with any task essential in the efficient running of an Arts venue.
The theatres host a variety of entertainments - drama, art-house cinema, multi-cultural storytelling, dance, stand-up comedy, cultural celebrations and, a resident company - the National Theatre of Parramatta. It is a venue that embraces the diversity of the community it services.
Love founded his own theatre company - 'Toe Truck Theatre' in 1976, providing a valuable social and educational role to students in regional and urban schools. Subsequent roles travelled management positions with organisations such as the University of Sydney's Seymour Centre, the State Theatre Company of South Australia, the Sydney Theatre Company, Fox Studios and News limited; eventually taking up the baton at Riverside Theatres in 2000.
He has been made a Member in the General Division of the Order of Australia for 'significant service to the performing arts, particularly in Western Sydney, as an administrator, and as a supporter of Independent artists'.
He joined Stages for a riveting conversation, pondering the importance of the Arts in nourishing a population, the dilemma of Arts funding, the future of theatre as an art form; and to reflect on a stellar career as a leader at various Arts organisations.
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| 05 Nov 2022 | ‘Comedy Tonight’ - Satirist, Actor, Writer; Mandy Bishop | 01:04:25 | |
Mandy Bishop is a graduate of the West Australian Academy of Performing Arts. Known and revered for her deft impersonation of Australia’s first female Prime Minister, Julia Gillard; Mandy is also an actor, comedian, musician and writer of considerable accomplishment. Commencing her career with the celebrated A cappella group Bite My Chilli, Mandy toured Australia performing concert and corporate entertainment, while also developing skills in producing and arts management. Her theatre credits are extensive and include a variety of of repertoire; The Pillowman, Boston Marriage, Fallen Angels, Vicious Streaks, Angry Penguins and Withering Heights. On television she has been seen in Heartbreak High, Blue Heelers, All Saints, Big Sky, My Place, Rake and Drop Dead Weird. Most recently she appeared in Anyone Can Whistle for Neglected Musicals. Mandy has collaborated with producer Michael Bourchier on two children's television series; The Upside Down Show, on which she played the role of Mrs. Foil in every episode, and Penelope K, by the Way, on which she played the title role. In 2011 Mandy co-wrote and created the four-part sitcom, At Home With Julia, in which she portrayed the sitting PM. She has acted in Sydney’s legendary Wharf Revue since 2008, inhabiting a vast array of political and pop-culture characters. Each demonstrating a penetrating examination and superlative execution. Mandy joins the Wharf Revue team of Jonathan Biggins, Drew Forsythe and Phil Scott once again as Soft Tread Enterprises presents Looking for Albanese. This much anticipated event on our calendars commences its Sydney season at The Seymour Centre from November 12th and through December. “The world is grim - what better time to have a laugh?” Mandy examines the craft of humour, her artistic relationship with ‘Julia’ and the joy of satire and revue in this sparkling episode of the STAGES podcast. The STAGES podcast is available to access and subscribe from Spotify and Apple podcasts. Or from wherever you access your favourite podcasts. A conversation with creatives about craft and career. Recipient of Best New Podcast at 2019 Australian Podcast Awards. Follow socials on instagram (stagespodcast) and facebook (Stages). | |||
| 05 Jul 2019 | Writer, Composer and Cabaret Performer - Phil Scott | 01:12:38 | |
Phil Scott has many strings on his long bow - actor, writer, pianist, singer, composer, reviewer and broadcaster. Adept across several mediums he has ensured that anyone who is present in his audience is guaranteed several smiles, much guffaw and rapt awe at his rapier wit and keyboard dexterity.
He was a pivotal on-stage member of the annual STC Wharf Revue for 18 years demonstrating how satire deftly allows a community to examine itself.The titles alone conjure the sort of treat to be devoured - Free Petrol, Sunday in Iraq with George, Much Revue About Nothing and Pennies From Kevin.
He also wrote and performed for several ABC television series'.These include Good News Week,Three Men and a Baby Grand and The Gillies Report.
Extending his writing to the narrative form, he has had four comic novels published in Australia and the U.S. with such fabulous titles as One Dead Diva, It's About Your Friend, Gay Resort Murder Shock and Mardi Gras Murders.
He is a cabaret veteran, having first explored the form in 1983 with his solo show, A Legend in His Own Mind. He has appeared at venues around Australia and has been a regular at the Adelaide Cabaret Festival. Most recently he performed a one-man show about the English songwriter Lionel Bart titled Reviewing the Situation and contributed writing and performance to the biographical work Mario, about the life and music of Mario Lanza.
His talents have also been present in the evolution of a significant number of cabaret performances as co-creator - The Twink and the Showgirl, Pop Princess, Newley Discovered, Gentlemen Prefer Blokes, Fat Swan, Little Orphan Trashley, Diamonds are For Trevor and Liza's Back (is broken). Oh! And he's written a couple of Musicals as well.
Next up is a season of his new show (with Jonathan Biggins) No Cabaret For Old Men. It will feature as one of the highlights of the 2019 Sydney International Cabaret Festival on now. Phil talks cabaret and much more in this absorbing episode of STAGES.
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| 06 Oct 2021 | 'Going in Hard' - Composer and Singer, David Hobson - Part 1 | 00:50:59 | |
Australian tenor and composer David Hobson is one of Australia's best-known operatic, concert and stage performers, with a repertoire that spans the gamut of musical styles from Baroque through to Pop.
Beginning his career in rock and jazz bands, David's potential as a 'classical' singer was discovered by the Victoria State Opera in the 1980s. He subsequently made his name with Opera Australia in his award winning performance of Rodolfo in La Boheme directed by Baz Luhrmann. Since then he has gone on to become a well regarded classical performer, major recording artist, most recently a music theatre leading man and a frequent television performer on shows like Carols By Candlelight, Carols in The Domain, Spicks and Specks, Dancing With the Stars, It Takes Two, and as a presenter on Foxtel's Studio. He has performed for Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth in the Great Hall in Canberra and sung at the AFL Grand Final.
His many operatic roles include Don Ottavio (Don Giovanni), Ferrando (Cosi Fan Tutte), Tamino (The Magic Flute), Don Ramiro (La Cenerentola), Count Almaviva (The Barber of Saville), Nadir (Pearl Fishers), Lindoro (L'Italiana in Algeri), Belmonte (Die Entführung aus dem Serail), Nemorino (l'elisir d'amore), Eisentein (Die Fledermaus), Danilo (The Merry Widow), Frederic (The Pirates of Penzance) Nanki-Poo (The Mikado), Marco (The Gondoliers), Ralph Rackstraw (H.M.S. Pinafore), the Defendant (Trial By Jury), the title roles in Orphee and Candide, The Architect in the world premiere of The Eighth Wonder and, most recently, Caractacus Potts in the Australian premiere of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. His international roles include Chevalier Danceny in Dangerous Liaisons with Renée Fleming and Thomas Hampson for San Francisco Opera.
Recordings include The Promise, A Little Closer, Presenting David Hobson, The Exquisite Hour, Cinema Paradiso, French and Italian Arias, Handel Arias, Inside This Room, Tenor and Baritone (with Anthony Warlow), You'll Never Walk Alone (with Teddy Tahu-Rhodes) and Singing for Love (with Yvonne Kenny).
He is Musica Viva's In Schools Ambassador, an Ambassador for Heart Kids and Patron of the Ballarat Arts Foundation.
The STAGES podcast is available from Apple podcasts, Spotify and Whooshkaa. Also where you find your favourite podcasts. www.stagespodcast.com.au
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| 28 Mar 2020 | 'These Things Do Happen' - Broadway's Madame Giry, Maree Johnson | 00:55:48 | |
Some 23 years after playing Christine Daee in the Australian production of The Phantom of the Opera, Maree Johnson is back with the show - on Broadway - this time playing the mysterious Madame Giry. It is a show that has great sentimental meaning for Johnson and the experience allows her two very different access points to a story that has thrilled audiences for several decades.
The desire to act had been present since childhood. Bargaining with brothers to switch the TV from cricket to a musical proved a regular challenge. Such determination was always going to reward with Johnson ultimately giving Australian audiences tremendous delight in a host of iconic roles - Maria in West Side Story, Eliza in My Fair Lady, Grizabella in Cats and Cosette in Les Miserables, to name a few.
A win in the Sydney Cabaret Convention in 1998 took Maree to NYC where a next exciting chapter was to unfold. She quickly established herself with performances around the USA in Zorba, Passion and Adam Guettel's Myths and Hyms. Marriage and family was also found, establishing Maree as very much a local.
Maree was back in Australia recently and it was a great treat for Stages to sit down with her for a couple of hours to catch up on her journey over the past few years. Also to gain terrific insight, into what it takes to be a performer on Broadway and part of an iconic musical.
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| 23 Feb 2024 | STAGES SEASON 7 - "It's So Nice to Have You Back Where You Belong!" | 00:05:06 | |
The STAGES podcast returns in 2024 for it's 7th Season - conversations with creatives about craft and career! Season 7 launches on March 7th. | |||
| 01 Mar 2023 | The STAGES Podcast - World Pride Series - Drag Divas, Legends and Icons; Oh My! - MISS 3D & CINDY PASTEL | 00:45:58 | |
It’s World Pride 2023 and the queer globe is converging on Sydney Australia to celebrate diversity, inclusion, community and fabulousness! To mark this momentous event the STAGES podcast is saluting the cast of captivating drag divas and personalities who have been featured on the podcast during the past 5 seasons. They are artists who have appeared on national and global stages; thrilling audiences, making a difference, healing community and expressing unique and wondrous talents. We spotlight these episodes so you can savour a second listen - or so you can sample the delights of these entertainers for the very first time. A Diva a day for each day of World Pride! In the bohemian world that is drag, few artists can lay claim to the exulted and ebullient eccentricity that is Cindy Pastel. The alter ego of performer Ritchie Finger, Cindy has been delighting, thrilling and astonishing audiences for close to 45 years. A unique talent, Finger has inspired generations of drag performers who have followed in his fabulous footsteps - whether they be in stilettos or on skates. Ritchie Finger arrived in Sydney from Melbourne in 1979 and became one of the many young drag addicts to work at ‘Patch’s’ Nightclub on Sydney’s celebrated Oxford street. In the early part of the A.I.D.S. crisis Pastel was a tireless worker for HIV/AIDS organisations and charities. The decimation of community was enormous and Pastel, alongside many drag artists, kept everyone smiling. Cindy Pastel has been recognised by the DIVAs - The Drag Industry Variety Awards - twice in her illustrious career. A career that has reached incredible peaks and challenged with occasional obstacles. But through it all Ritchie Finger and Cindy Pastel have danced, paraded, twirled and taken centre stage, to ensure that ‘Everybody’s happy!” Recently celebrating a 72nd birthday, Miss 3D is still going strong, embracing every opportunity to perform and entertain an adoring fanbase. The alter ego of Glenn R. Lewis, Miss 3D has been at the pinnacle of Drag performance for over 40 years. Recognised as a matriarch of Sydney Drag performers, she has entranced with a vibrant and unique style; and incredible artistry, eternally mesmerising with opulent and eccentric costume. Growing up in a rural Victorian town, a diet of community theatre and ballet classes shaped a desire to command a stage. Study at the Australian Ballet school followed, before a quick visit to Sydney seduced Glenn and he met his drag tribe through performers such as Doris Fish, Teresa Green and Danny Aboud. Miss 3D quickly established herself on the scene as an artist of superior talent and invention. A holiday to New York City landed a permanent gig at the iconic Anvil Club where 3D performed for two years, wowing the American crowd. Returning to Australia Miss 3D continued to navigate the stages of venues such as Stranded and Patchs, eventually taking up residence at the iconic Albury Hotel with a trio called The Showbags, alongside Drag Legends, Cindy Pastel and Pat Gently. It was a privilege and a delight to feature these two iconic performers in the STAGES ‘Live’ series at The Powerhouse Up late for VIVID Sydney. They are an essential part of Sydney’s Gay heritage and elders of the community who must be celebrated and applauded for an immense contribution. The STAGES podcast is available from Apple podcasts, Spotify and from where you find your favourite podcasts. Tune in daily for a history of drag in Sydney. Tell your friends, share the podcast, relish the stories and embrace your own sense of Pride. | |||
| 25 Nov 2023 | STAGES SPOTLIGHT - CONVERSATIONS REVISITED MAUREEN ELKNER - from October 18th, 2018 - Episode 18 | 00:54:54 | |
As we draw towards the end of our 6th Season and chalk up 450+ episodes, it’s time we reach into the archive to feature conversations and creatives previously featured on STAGES. We spotlight such episodes, in case you missed them first time ‘round - or so you can simply savour a second listen. Singing back-up for John Farnham and providing some of the vocals on Russell Morris’s classic The Real Thing, Maureen found her great success with the chart climber ‘Rak Off Normie’ – the follow up single to Bob Hudson’s novelty hit ‘The Newcastle Song’. | |||
| 14 Aug 2024 | STAGES Episode 510: RODNEY FISHER - Part 1 | 01:06:48 | |
Rodney Fisher is a stage director who has worked in most major theatres in Australia and for all Australian theatre companies as well as Opera Australia, VSO, Bavarian State Opera, Royal Ballet London and Legs on the Wall. He has directed in England, Germany, Hungary, Hong Kong and at the Spoleto Festival, Charleston, South Carolina. He has worked in dance, film, video and written several theatre pieces and screenplays. Highlights include: The Bastard from the Bush (Robin Ramsay one man show), A Star is Torn – also wrote – (Robyn Archer), Master Class, My Fair Lady (Anthony Warlow and Suzanne Johnston) and Steaming (legendary Australian tour). Work for the Sydney Theatre Company includes: The Lady in the Van, Pentecost, The Rain Dancers, The Secret Rapture, and The Doll Trilogy. Rodney was Artistic Director of the State Theatre Company of South Australia from 1997 to 2000, directing The Department, Macbeth, The Idiot, Kafka Dances, Courtyard of Miracles, The Rose Tattoo and Twelfth Night. Other credits include: Design for Living, Hay Fever (MTC); The Merry Widow (Ess Gee Productions); From Here to There (Legs on the Wall); A Winter’s Tale (QTC), Maria Stuarda, Lady Bracknell’s Confinement, Hello Dolly, My Darling It’s Noel, Shock of the New, La Traviata, A Violent Act (STC); Don John (SSO); and The Bookclub (Hit Productions/Ensemble theatre). Rodney adapted, designed and directed Henry Purcell’s King Arthur for the 2016 Brisbane Baroque Festival, and directed the ACO production Barry Humphries' Weinmar Cabaret, starring his frequent collaborator, Meow Meow for its initial Australian season and its tour to London and North America. Rodney Fisher is one of our master storytellers whose contributions to the theatre are substantial and of vital significance. The STAGES podcast is available to access and subscribe from Spotify and Apple podcasts. Or from wherever you access your favourite podcasts. A conversation with creatives about craft and career. Follow socials on instagram (stagespodcast) and facebook (Stages).www.stagespodcast.com.au | |||
| 08 Feb 2020 | 'Sparkle Darlings!' - Betty Pounder Remembered with Kevin Coxhead | 00:44:12 | |
Kevin Coxhead celebrates the memory of dynamic J.C. Williamson's Showmaker, Betty Pounder, in a facebook group titled 'Sparkle Darlings!'. The phrase, was a famous expression favoured by 'Pounder' to prompt the best from her trusted stable of dancers and leading performers.
Betty Pounder died in 1990 but has left a legacy that we continue to benefit from today. She was a unique practitioner - entrusted by 'The Firm' to travel abroad to view scheduled shows and then re-create them in Australia. She became expert in the styles of the great Broadway choreographers, Fosse, Champion, Kidd and Robbins. Her vast repertoire of shows includes The Pajama Game, Funny Girl and Sweet Charity.
Her role extended to the maintenance of shows for their commercial seasons and whilst 'on the road'. She acted for 'The Firm' as a Casting Director and suggested to the producers that an all-Australian company for The Pajama Game would prove to be a winning gamble. It was - and altered the reliance for international performers to take roles in local production. The careers of stars like Lamond, Perryman and Hayes quickly followed.
A mentor of many performers, she was pivotal in launching careers, defining an ownership of product by local talent and contributing to an excellence and discipline maintained by the country's finest. She also made a notable step in Australian ballet history with her creation of the ballet Jazz Spectrum for the 1965 season.
Kevin worked with 'Pounder' in Williamson's production of Gypsy, featuring Gloria Dawn and then Toni Lamond in the role of Rose. The show impressed upon him a great passion for the theatre and an enormous respect for the woman conjuring such magic. He joins Stages to share insight and reflection on the legend that is Betty Pounder.
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| 25 May 2022 | 'Together Wherever We Go' - An Entertainment Dynasty; Warren and Pam Kermond | 01:29:44 | |
Warren and Pam Kermond belong to a dynasty of performers who have made an indelible mark on the performing arts in Australia and abroad, in a range of theatrical styles - Vaudeville, Comedy, Acrobatics, Musical Theatre and Dance. Their stages have been vast and varied; from the touring tent shows of Sorlies to the majesty of the Tivoli and the global club circuit. "It's experience that counts" And they have it in spades!
Pam is one of 11 children. An enthusiastic Aunt suggested that she should take dance lessons; and so began a career in show business. Initially this was in a variety show titled 'Thanks For The Memories' and then as a magician's assistant to The Great Levante.
Growing up as the third, of now five generations of a show business family, Warren gained experience at a very early age in theatre, pantomime, night clubs, television, cabaret and Musical theatre. He has been involved in every aspect of the Entertainment Industry over the past fifty years and it is difficult to express his knowledge, credibility and understanding of the Industry both in Australia and Internationally.
Warren and Pam toured internationally with their celebrated double-act. Billed as an Acrobatic Song and Dance Act, they navigated tours and stages, enthralling and delighting audiences with a unique entertainment.
As an actor Warren played the role of Custus in the GFO production of Crazy For You and the role of The Rabbi alongside Topol in Fiddler on the Roof for TML Enterprises. He has been seen in numerous television commercials.
Pam developed a very successful dance school in which she trained several generations of performers over 41 years.
Warren appeared regularly on In Melbourne Tonight and other national television shows. He had his own TV program in Adelaide and was also a regular headliner at Wrestpoint and other major Theatre and Cabaret Venues.
Warren and Pam are a prominent fixture in our performing arts heritage. They are a link to an entertainment past that is now a memory - but one that we must acknowledge, investigate and celebrate. This is a conversation that is essential listening.
The STAGES podcast is available to access and subscribe from Whooshkaa, Spotify and Apple podcasts. Or from wherever you access your favourite podcasts. A conversation with creatives about craft and career. Recipient of Best New Podcast at 2019 Australian Podcast Awards. Follow socials on instagram (stagespodcast) and facebook (Stages).
www.stagespodcast.com.au
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| 06 Mar 2019 | Radio, Television and Stage Star - Maureen Howard | 01:06:04 | |
Melbourne born soprano Maureen Howard was beloved by audiences and critics alike. At twelve years of age, she was a regular voice on the weekly 3DB Radio programme Swallows Juniorsand she later won the Vocal Section of television's Swallow's Parade. Though she studied singing from an early age, she wanted to be a hairdresser and, it was serendipitous that one of her 'clients' was associated with the two major theatre entrepreneurs J.C. Williamson and Garnet H. Carroll Management. A simple conversation during a hairdressing appointment gained Maureen a stage audition for J.C.Williamson at Her Majesty's Theatre in Melbourne . They had just opened their production of My Fair Lady. The following week, the same 'client' arranged an audition for Garnet H. Carroll at the Princess Theatre in Melbourne and she was immediately offered a contract for Chorus - and later 'stand-by' for Marian the Librarian - in The Music Man. As would occur many times during her early career, Maureen went on in the star's role. In April of 1961, she was cast in Lock Up Your Daughters with an additional song especially written for her character by the conductor Dobbs Franks. In August that year, she performed in Loesser's Most Happy Fella with Inia Te Wiata and Ronal Jackson. Later that year, Garnett H. Carroll Management cast her as June Bronhill's 'stand-by' in The Sound of Music and, again, Maureen was frequently seen in the role of Maria. In 1962, Maureen Howard won First Prize in the celebrated Sun Aria and left her contract for The Sound of Music. She was a frequent face and voice on television especially on the popular Sunny Side Up in 1963.
After study, a year in Italy and then London - with the noted teacher Vera Rózsa - her operatic career started with Puccini's Tosca in 1967 - starting her career at the top - with the Elizabethan Trust Opera. The production opened at the Perth Festival on February 11th and featured Reginald Byers and the Hungarian baritone Alexander Major as Cavaradossi and Scarpia along with the twenty-seven years old Maureen Howard. Her operatic debut was a success, with one critic writing "She may not be as imperious as some Toscas, but she certainly is more vocally secure than many ... A powerful voice which is always beautifully controlled, and dominated the stage."
The same year, she performed Zerlina in Don Giovanni with a stellar cast featuring Neil Warren-Smith, Marcella Reale, Rosemary Gordon, Robert Gard, Ronald Maconaghie and John Germain. It was a controversial production directed by the young Jim Sharman. A production of Die Fledermaus as Rosalinda (and June Bronhill as the maid, Adele) was a hit with audiences. Next came performances of Venus in Tannhäuser, Tebaldo in Don Carlo, Liù in Turandot, Micaela in Carmen and the cover of Minnie in the Australian premiere of Puccini's La fanciulla del West. Her career reached a new high with her assumption of Cio Cio San in Madama Butterfly in 1969 with a new production mounted especially for her talents. As a company member, she was also cast as Felice in Wolf-Ferrari's School for Fathers, Josephine in HMS Pinafore, Elsie Maynard in Yeoman of the Guard along with Giulietta in a concert version of The Tales of Hoffmann.
Along with Cio Cio San in Madama Butterfly, the roles of Nedda in Pagliacci and Musetta in La bohème fitted Maureen Howard to a tee. To many audiences, her performances in all three roles have never been surpassed by an Australian born performer. She created Musetta in the famous La bohème production by Tom Lingwood in 1971. "Maureen Howard's Musetta stole the show ... she has the wonderful ability for stance, stage presence and poise of hand which just fix one's eyes upon her." During the following season, she performed her first Mimi in the s...
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| 09 Mar 2022 | 'To the New Chandelier!' - Director; Simon Phillips | 01:10:29 | |
Simon Phillips began his career in New Zealand before emigrating to Australia in 1984 to take up a position as lecturer and director at the West Australian Academy for Performing Arts. In 1987 he joined the Melbourne Theatre Company as Associate Director and in 1990 he was appointed Artistic Director of the State Theatre Company of South Australia. After freelancing nationally and internationally between 1994 and 1999, he returned to MTC as Artistic Director from 2000 to 2011, overseeing the design and construction of the company's new headquarters and the Southbank Theatre.
His directing credits range from new works to contemporary and Shakespearean classics, to musicals, to opera. He has directed works by most of the great contemporary writers: Albee (A Delicate Balance), Beckett (Happy Days), Brecht (Arturo Ui), Churchill (Cloud Nine/Serious Money), Hare (The Blue Room), McDonagh (The Pillowman), Orton (What the Butler Saw/Entertaining Mr Sloane), Shepherd (Buried Child, A Lie of the Mind), and Stoppard (Arcadia, Rock'n'Roll).
He has also directed the premieres of many new works by leading Australian writers, including David Williamson, Matt Cameron, Hannie Rayson, Stephen Sewell and Joanna Murray-Smith.
Simon's musical credits in Australia include Love Never Dies, Priscilla, Queen of the Desert (which has had numerous international seasons including The West End and Broadway), The Twenty-Fifth Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, Urinetown the Musical, Company, The Threepenny Opera, Cabaret, Muriel's Wedding - the musical, Ladies in Black, Dream Lover, An Officer and a Gentleman and High Society. In New Zealand he directed Oliver!, Chicago, Jesus Christ Superstar and The Pirates of Penzance.
Among his many classical productions, The Tempest, Julius Caesar, A Comedy of Errors and The Importance of Being Earnest all toured nationally in Australia. Simon's opera credits include: La Bohème, Falstaff, L'Elisir d'Amore and Lulu for Opera Australia, The Magic Flute and Don Giovanni for Opera New Zealand and A Midsummer Night's Dream and Billy Budd for Hamburg State Opera.
Simon is the recipient of many Australian Theatre awards and has an Honorary Doctorate from the University of Melbourne. He recently directed As You Like It for the Melbourne Theatre Company and has now turned his focus to Sydney with an adaptation of North By Northwest, and a thrilling new production of The Phantom of the Opera for Opera Australia; they take to the stages of the Lyric Theatre and Sydney Harbour. He discusses these exciting theatrical ventures, as well as his illustrious career, in this compelling episode of STAGES.
The STAGES podcast is available to access and subscribe from Whooshkaa, Spotify and Apple podcasts. Or from wherever you access your favourite podcasts. A conversation with creatives about craft and career. Recipient of Best New Podcast at 2019 Australian Podcast Awards. Follow socials on instagram (stagespodcast) and facebook (Stages).
www.stagespodcast.com.au
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| 12 Feb 2020 | 'The Music That Makes Me Dance' - Jill Perryman and Kevan Johnston - Part 1 | 00:47:25 | |
Australia's First Lady of musical comedy, Jill Perryman made her stage debut at the tender age of two when her parents were touring in White Horse Inn. Her first big break came whilst she was in the chorus of Call Me Madam when as understudy to Evie Hayes she was called upon to play the leading role. Jill went from success to success appearing in J.C.Williamson's South Pacific, Paint Your Wagon, The Pajama Game and Can Can. Further triumphs followed with legendary performances through a stellar career; No, No Nanette, Annie, A Little Night Music and The Boy From Oz.
Kevan Johnston's hard work, early in life, studying all forms of dance under his mother Peggy Esler's tuition paid off, for when he auditioned for Call Me Madam, he landed the role of principal dancer. He impressed the directors because he was again made principal dancer for several other shows including Paint Your Wagon, Can Can and The Pajama Game, where he became one of Australia's first Fosse dancers alongside Tikki Taylor and Frank Sheldon, in the iconic Steam Heat number. Parallel careers as a choreographer and Television producer have also offered Kevan opportunities to contribute impressively to entertainment in Australia.
The pair have managed careers which have offered them several opportunities to work together in productions. These have included Wallflowering, Carnival, The One Day of the Year, Annie and celebrated turns in the GFO national tour of Hello Dolly! - a theatrical gift which saw Jill in the role of Dolly Levi and Kevan leading the waiter's gallop as Rudy, in the famed Harmonia Gardens' sequence.
Jill and Kevan are luminaries of the Australian stage; not only in musical theatre, but also with extensive credits in stage drama, television and film, across several decades. It was a super treat to catch up with them and I know you'll be delighted too, hearing them in conversation with recollections of a vast contribution to the Arts in Australia.
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| 12 Mar 2025 | STAGES Episode 549: LUKE DI SOMMA | 01:01:27 | |
Luke Di Somma is one of New Zealand’s leading composers, writers and theatre educators, whose work spans musical theatre, opera and television. He is currently based in Melbourne, Australia. A Fulbright scholar, Luke studied at New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts, graduating with a Master of Fine Arts from the Graduate Musical Theatre Writing Programme. He completed his Bachelor of Music at the University of Canterbury, and gained First Class Honours from the New Zealand School of Music where he studied conducting and composition. Luke is the co-writer of hit musical That Bloody Woman, and the composer of The Unruly Tourists. Current projects include several projects with Australian collaborators and a new television show. In the United Kingdom, his work has been seen at Andrew Lloyd Weber’s The Other Palace theatre, and he co-wrote the opening number for the last three West End Bares charity concerts in various theatres in London’s West End. His music has been sung by Broadway’s Andréa Burns, Olivier winners David Bedella and Rebecca Trehearn, and Tony nominees Andy Karl and Eva Noblezada. His music direction credits are numerous. Highlights include Les Miserables, Chicago, Rent, The Mikado, My Fair Lady, Sweeney Todd and Spamalot. He musically directed the European premiere of Lin-Manuel Miranda's 21 Chump Street in London. A regular guest conductor with the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra, he has conducted performances of Berlin To Broadway, Mad Men and Dangerous Women, The Golden Age of Broadway and The Golden Age of Hollywood as well as four seasons of CSO Kids. He has also worked with New Zealand Opera, the Christchurch Youth Orchestra and founded the Christchurch Pops Choir. Luke is also the founder and director of Christchurch International Musical Theatre Summer School - a biennial programme with a school of both secondary school students and emerging professionals. He has taught with some of Broadway’s finest including Andréa Burns, Sutton Foster, Jonathan Groff, Peter Flynn and Julia Murney. He is currently a Sessional Lecturer at Federation University of Australia in Victoria. During the Sydney Festival in January, Luke premiered a new work (co-written with Constantine Costi) - Siegfried and Roy: The Unauthorised Opera, to huge acclaim. The STAGES podcast is available to access and subscribe from Spotify and Apple podcasts. Or from wherever you access your favourite podcasts. A conversation with creatives about craft and career. Follow socials on instagram (stagespodcast) and facebook (Stages). | |||
| 03 Mar 2022 | STAGES SPOTLIGHT: 'Don't Rain on My Parade' - Revisiting Drag Legend, Stan Munro | 01:02:39 | |
The rains have caused havoc with many folk around the country and we extend our thoughts and concern to those who are doing it tough at present.
The advertised conversation with Tobin Saunders (aka Vanessa Wagner) will not be podcast today as planned. We will catch up with Tobin in a future episode.
In lieu however, we are going to feature a conversation with the great Stan Munro, recorded in June, 2021. Stan was due in Sydney this week to celebrate his long career as another of our stellar drag artistes - nationally and on the global stage. Stan was to be featured in the Mardi Gras parade, but unlike Fanny Brice, the skies have rained on Stan's parade - for this year only. He'll be back where he belongs no doubt as soon as possible. We send Stan our best wishes and a happy Mardi Gras from afar!
Born in Wales in 1941, Stan Munro has accumulated a life-time of wonderful adventure, challenge and triumph. His, is an eventful and colourful existence, navigated with resilience and a cheeky sense of humour. Stan's journey as a gender illusionist across several decades and continents has reaped countless anecdotes.
Stan's first forays into frocks came when he would perform at family Christmas parties. Furniture would be parted and his family would be mesmerised by the boy miming to Rosemary Clooney. He played his first Pantomime Dame at the age of 12.
He joined the entertainment industry working with a partner performing sight acts in variety around the UK. Along the way he worked with artists such as The Andrews Sisters, Petula Clarke, Tommy Cooper, Danny La Rue and Tessie O'Shea.
He moved to Australia in 1963 and soon found himself employed as a male dancer in the famous Les Girls show in King's Cross, Sydney. Working with the Drag Artistes of the day ignited Stan's boyhood infatuation and he quickly joined the girls with his own blend of glamour and comedy. So much so that he was eventually appointed MC of the iconic revue. An extended season with the show followed at The Ritz, in St Kilda, Melbourne.
It has been a career in heels since, as Stan has delighted, confused and amused audiences around the country. He has a fascinating story and an engaging take on life. He is wicked, charming and an absolute delight, as you will realise in this riotous episode of the STAGES podcast.
The STAGES podcast is available from Apple podcasts, Spotify and Whooshkaa. Also where you find your favourite podcasts. www.stagespodcast.com.au
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| 19 Feb 2023 | The STAGES Podcast - World Pride Series - Drag Divas, Legends and Icons; Oh My! - MITZI MACINTOSH | 01:17:01 | |
It’s World Pride 2023 and the queer globe is converging on Sydney Australia to celebrate diversity, inclusion, community and fabulousness! To mark this momentous event the STAGES podcast is saluting the cast of captivating drag divas and personalities who have been featured on the podcast during the past 5 seasons. They are artists who have appeared on national and global stages; thrilling audiences, making a difference, healing community and expressing unique and wondrous talents. We spotlight these episodes so you can savour a second listen - or so you can sample the delights of these entertainers for the very first time. A Diva a day for each day of World Pride! Mitzi Macintosh is an adored drag identity who has worked in all the major Sydney venues over some two decades. Outrageous and subversive, with a heart of gold and possessed with immaculate comic timing, she is the drag persona of performer Graeme Browning. Now residing in the UK, Graeme (and Mitzi) were back in Sydney for their first one-woman show – Mitzi Macintosh – My Life in Lipstick – when this conversation was recorded in 2018. The show was presented as part of the 40th Anniversary Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras. Browning’s knowledge of drag as an art-form and of a Sydney now past, is extensive He is very much one of the custodians of the vibrant drag scene that existed through the 80s and 90s. Graeme Browning sat down with STAGES, three days after the 2018 Mardi Gras parade and party, to discuss his show, his process, and the art of the drag performer. The STAGES podcast is available from Apple podcasts, Spotify and from where you find your favourite podcasts. Tune in daily for a history of drag in Sydney. Tell your friends, share the podcast, relish the stories and embrace your own sense of Pride. | |||
| 06 May 2020 | 'The Show Must Go On' - Journalist, Singer, Publisher and Community Theatre Advocate, David Spicer | 00:57:42 | |
David Spicer's enthusiasm for the arts in all its forms is palpable. His participation exists in several identities; producer, publisher, performer and patron. He is a regular at the theatre and relishes nurturing new work. It's a broad portfolio.
Spicer is a journalist and worked for the A.B.C. in metropolitan radio and television, delivering news and current affairs. He was acknowledged with the Walkley Award two years running, for Best Radio Current Affairs Story.
Equally at home on the stage, he has performed most of the lead tenor repertoire in the Gilbert and Sullivan cannon; in concerts and production.
In 2008, he acquired management of Stage Whispers Performing Arts Magazine; an essential guide for the theatre goer and participant, delivering news, reviews and listings.
Since 1995, Spicer has been the Communications Officer for The Association of Community Theatre. In this capacity he helped found the ACT's What's On brochure and a bi-annual community theatre conference.
He began his foray into representing stage plays and musicals in 1998, when David Spicer Productions licensed 2 musicals. The company now licences more than 200 productions in countries all over the world.
David joined Stages to examine his many roles and the vital need for an Arts experience in society - especially in the present, challenging times.
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| 04 Sep 2024 | STAGES Episode 517: WEST END REPORT - SIMON PARRIS & IAN PHIPPS | 01:01:41 | |
Two of STAGES favourite Arts workers have recently returned from pilgrimages to London …. and have inhaled the smorgasbord of musical and play offerings playing on West End stages. Publicist Ian Phipps and ‘Man-in-Chair’; Simon Parris, return to the STAGES podcast to share what they saw .. what they liked, what they didn’t …. and perhaps even to boast a little. They provide first-hand insight of what we could expect, if finding ourselves in the Savoy, Dominion, National, Donmar, Old Vic or Barbican theatres over the coming months. Simon Parris is a theatre reviewer based in Melbourne. His review blog ‘Man in Chair’ regularly reviews musicals, plays, opera and the arts. Access to these reviews can be found at simonparrismaninchair.com Ian Phipps is one of Australia’s leading publicists, promoting theatre and its stars around Australia. If you know that a show is happening, no doubt it’s because Ian has communicated this to you via a myriad of masterful means. The STAGES podcast is available to access and subscribe from Spotify and Apple podcasts. Or from wherever you access your favourite podcasts. A conversation with creatives about craft and career. Follow socials on instagram (stagespodcast) and facebook (Stages). | |||
| 21 Nov 2022 | STAGES SPOTLIGHT - CONVERSATIONS REVISITED: ROD DUNBAR - from September, 2018 | 01:04:26 | |
With episodes nearing 350 in the STAGES archive, it’s time to revisit conversations featured in our previous seasons. STAGES spotlights such episodes, in case you missed them the first time ‘round - or so you can simply savour, a second listen. Either way, you’ll be accessing precious oral histories from the people who were there, on and around our stages.
In February 2019 we lost a stalwart of the musical theatre fraternity in Australia. Rod Dunbar was a gentleman who relished a life on the boards, navigating a career over five decades. STAGES was honoured that he consented to be featured in our very first series. And a privilege to revisit his extensive career and life in showbiz in this Spotlight episode.
Growing up in Rockhampton in Queensland, Rod made the piano his instrument of choice. But he soon discovered he had a decent ‘set of pipes’ and promptly pursued a career fronting bands. It was a move hastened by his viewing of Blackboard Jungle, a film celebrated for its innovative use of rock and roll in its soundtrack. His taste for entertaining an audience prompted a venture south to Sydney where he quickly established himself as an in-demand vocalist.
An enthusiastic beginning saw him perform with the Petersham Musical Society guided by Helen de Paul and working alongside her daughter, a young Trisha Noble.
He became a regular on Channel Seven’s Sing Sing Sing hosted by Johnny O’Keefe (it aired from 1962 to 1965), and launched a pop career that saw recordings such as ‘Break Down’, ‘Dare I Say It Again’, ‘Little Girl It’s Time We Parted’ and ‘What Do You Want from Me?’. Rod toured the country, doing gigs with other high-profile entertainers including The Bee Gees, Digger Revell and the Denvermen, Lee Sellars and Jimmy Little. They attracted attention everywhere, due to their national exposure through the new medium of television.
At a time when he was looking to expand the possibilities of his career, Rod was spotted by J.C. Williamson’s Betty Pounder, who encouraged him to pursue a career in musical theatre. His celebrity made him an ideal candidate to join Noel Ferrier’s production of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella. Rod was cast as a featured courtier and worked alongside John Meillon, Gwen Plumb, Tony Bonner and Max Phipps.
This was followed by performances in The Boys From Syracuse, Oliver!, and his renowned turn in 1967 as The Fiddler in the original staging of Fiddler on the Roof in Australia, with Hayes Gordon and Brigid Lenihan. He experienced personal triumphs in the original Australian productions of You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown as Snoopy, and in Godspell in 1972 in a magnetic performance as Jesus. The production also toured New Zealand.
His extensive career included the celebrated production of Chicago directed by Richard Wherrett for the Sydney Theatre Company. Other work for the STC included Company and Merrily We Roll Along. He completed tours of Dirty Dancing for Kevin Jacobsen and Are You Lonesome Tonight, South Pacific and Big River for GFO.
His arrival on stage as Mark Twain at the beginning of Big River is still vivid. Dressed immaculately in a white suit, centre stage in a solo spot, drawing on a cigar and releasing a smoke plume that billowed high above into the flys, he was an actor at one with a character and held the audience poised, ready for a great story. Whether on stage or off, Rod was always a gifted storyteller.
He leaves behind a legacy of wonderful performances and professionalism as a colleague, mentor and mate. It is a privilege to revisit this conversation with Rod Dunbar.
The Stages podcast is available from Apple podcasts, Spotify, and where you find your favourite podcasts. www.stagespodcast.com.au
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| 08 May 2019 | Casting Director - Jan Russ | 01:05:57 | |
A variety of performance roles in the ranks of JC Williamson produced musicals, Australian television and theatre restaurant, gave Jan Russ a first-hand knowledge of the actor's craft. Her great charm and passion for talent, ultimately lead her to a role in which she was able to guide and nurture many actors as they entered residency in one of Australia's most iconic locations; Ramsay street, Erinsborough. For almost 30 years Jan was the Casting Director of the television juggernaut, Neighbours.
Preparation for such a pivotal role was contributed to through a vast array of experiences. Jan sang and danced up a storm in productions of Charlie Girl, Godspell, Oliver, Fiddler on the Roof and The Man of La Mancha; all presented by 'The Firm' and guided by one of her mentors, Betty Pounder. Broadway almost beckoned and a stint in New Zealand saw her working on screen and off - leading to an opportunity to become the country's first female Floor Manager.
Returning to Australia saw further performance opportunities in the rigorous demands of theatre restaurant, offering an experience of working live with sometimes unpredictable audiences.
Casting came calling at Crawford productions - the production house responsible for an extensive repertoire of great Australian content. A move to the Grundy organisation gave her a casting role overseeing the population of Wentworth Detention centre in the iconic series Prisoner. But it wasn't long before she was on the ground floor of a new series, originally titled Living Together, that was to go on to become part of the echelon of Australian Television history and make its mark around the world.
Jan possesses an infinite knowledge of the craft of acting on stage and screen.
She is a living legend and a fine raconteur who converses with enormous joy and ardour; giving STAGES a fascinating insight to the business of casting and a unique journey in the theatre.
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| 10 Jun 2020 | 'Life's Too Short To Be Anyone But Yourself' - Activist, Actor and Author - Harry Cook | 00:52:23 | |
In a relatively young life, Harry Cook has demonstrated a dynamic and charismatic persona, achieving much. He has chartered a successful career as an actor, garnering impressive accolades in a number of feature films. He made his screen debut at 17, playing opposite Hollywood Star, Geena Davis, in the coming-of-age tale; Accidents Happen.
Harry is also a passionate activist for LGBTIQ+ rights and visibility. He chronicled his own traumatic coming-out story in the engaging memoir, Pink Ink. The book won acclaim for its honesty and warmth.
Further gigs have seen Harry acting alongside Sam Neill and Bryan Brown in ABC TV's Old School and in the cult thriller Caught Inside with Peter Phelps and Ben Oxenbould. Most recently he won the Best Supporting Actor award at the prestigious Film Out, San Diego for his role in the feature film Drown.
Ever present on social media, he continues to chart a full and fulfilling life. Harry communicates his staunch support of many issues, his great love of family and his affectionate obsession with a bulldog named Poppy.
Next month Harry's new book, Finn, Rye and Fireflies is released. The young-adult fiction book tackles aversion therapy and continues his goal to increase the visibility of LGBTIQ+ characters across all platforms.
Harry is a passionate story-teller and is candid about his personal and professional journeys. He provides terrific reflection in this episode of Stages.
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| 02 Mar 2022 | 'Is Everybody Happy?' - Drag Legend; Ritchie Finger a.k.a. Cindy Pastel | 01:01:58 | |
In the bohemian world that is drag, few artists can lay claim to the exulted and ebullient eccentricity that is Cindy Pastel. The alter ego of performer Ritchie Finger, Cindy has been delighting, thrilling and astonishing audiences for close to 45 years. Guided through life by a signature catch cry 'Is Everybody Happy?', Pastel has ensured that we are always a satisfied audience.
A unique talent, Finger has inspired generations of drag performers who have followed in his fabulous footsteps - whether they be in stilettos or on skates.
Ritchie Finger arrived in Sydney from Melbourne in 1979 and became one of the many young drag addicts to work at 'Patch's' Nightclub on Sydney's celebrated Oxford street.
An auspicious beginning, through entering a talent quest under the drag name Barbara Mattel (Barbie), allowed Finger to make an indelible impression, though he didn't earn a place. Finger discovered 'Barbie' had a younger sister and so, Cindy Pastel was born.
The song that Finger performed was 'A Love Like Yours Don't Keep Knocking Every Day' featuring both Sonny AND Cher. "Once on stage I felt like I had been there before and my world became my stage for evermore".
In the early part of the A.I.D.S. crisis Pastel was a tireless worker for HIV/AIDS organisations and charities. The decimation of community was enormous and Pastel states "I believe the microphone was my personal way of unleashing anger towards the hideous disease. I felt like an Andrews sister doing her bit through shows during war time".
Cindy Pastel exploded onto a multitude of stages through the 80's and was in high demand performing shows at the Hordern Pavillion for Mardi Gras, Sleaze Ball, Bacchanalia, Rat, and Sweatbox parties.
Cindy Pastel worked at The iconic Albury Hotel for many years forming a group called 'The Showbags' consisting of Miss 3D, Twisty (Pat Gently) and numerous other showbag fill-ins such as Kandy Conrad and Sara Pax. Cindy formed other drag ensembles at pubs and clubs like Stranded Nightclub, where she worked with Channelle Saint Laurent and Christina. They were called 'The 3C's'. At The Exchange Hotel Cindy performed with a group called 'Mixed Company' with Julie Ashton, Ginger Benson, and Polly Petrie as the male dancer.
Finger's performance work has also extended beyond drag as an actor in Richard Wherrett's production of A Midsummer Night's Dream, staged at The Sydney Opera House; and roles in the films The Everlasting Secret Family, Desire, Hand Job, Gone Tomorrow and the documentary Ladies Please!
The celebrated film Priscilla - Queen of the Desert entered Ritchie Finger's world when his life story inspired the character of Tick, played by Hugo Weaving. Finger travelled to London and The Cannes film festival to promote the film and further his own adventure.
A delicious icing on the remarkable cake of Ritchie Finger's career was sitting in the silver shoe atop the Priscilla bus, in the closing ceremony of the 2000 Sydney Olympics. A recognition that celebrated the seminal film and the fabulous community of drag queens who have worked the stages of Sydney.
Cindy Pastel has been recognised by the DIVAs - The Drag Industry Variety Awards - twice in her illustrious career. A career that has reached incredible peaks and challenged with occasional obstacles. But through it all Ritchie Finger and Cindy Pastel have danced, paraded, twirled and taken centre stage, to ensure that 'Everybody's happy!"
We certainly are!
The STAGES podcast is available to access and subscribe from Whooshkaa, Spotify and Apple podcasts. Or from wherever you access your favourite podcasts. A conversation with creatives about craft and career. Recipient of Best New Podcast at 2019 Australian Podcast Awards. Follow socials on instagram (stagespodcast) and facebook (Stages).
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| 22 Nov 2022 | STAGES SPOTLIGHT - CONVERSATIONS REVISITED: DOLORES DUNBAR - from August, 2020 | 01:04:47 | |
With episodes nearing 350 in the STAGES archive, it’s time to revisit conversations featured in our previous seasons. STAGES spotlights such episodes, in case you missed them the first time ‘round - or so you can simply savour, a second listen. Either way, you’ll be accessing precious oral histories from the people who were there, on and around our stages. Dolores Dunbar possesses an energy that has equalled that of her teenage students. In her role as Head of Musical Theatre at the McDonald College of Performing Arts she has contributed to the development of the next generation of performers with a knowledge garnered from extensive industry experience in a variety of roles. After several decades as nurturer, guide and mentor, Dolores is stepping down from her teaching role; but is certainly not stepping away from the industry she adores. She made her professional stage debut in the Australian company of Funny Girl for J.C. Williamson’s. A stack of shows followed for Dolores, including My Fair Lady, Fiddler on the Roof, Chicago, The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas, Les Miserables and Shout. Other creative roles have seen her choreograph the immensely successful production of Nunsense, serve as Company Management and direct productions of Eurovision, Copacabana and Grease. Always ready with an amusing anecdote that serves as a brilliant history lesson, Dolores is a walking encyclopaedia of our musical theatre past and the many characters who have inhabited its stage. We should all maintain the optimism, energy and passion of Dolores. She is a great champion for all of us to aspire toward. It is a joy and honour to revisit this conversation with Dolores and celebrate her immense contributions as Performer and Teacher. Bravo Dord! | |||
| 17 Oct 2022 | ‘Step in Time’ - Entering the Industry; Jacob Steen | 00:55:08 | |
Jacob Steen has commenced a very exciting time in a performer’s career. He is making his professional debut in the musical Mary Poppins; now touring around Australia, presented by Disney, Cameron Mackintosh and Michael Cassel. An exciting and joyous time indeed, but one that presents its share of challenge, discovery and discipline. Jacob is keen to share his experience thus far and provide insight for the novice performer ‘waiting in the wings’ and the audience who are fascinated by the theatre and the backstage of showbiz. Jacob completed first year of the Bachelor of Music Theatre at the Victorian College of the Arts, prior to the opportunity to join Mary Poppins. He has trained in Jazz, Ballet, Tap, Acro, Musical Theatre and Contemporary under Renie Ann Martini OAM at the May Downs School of Dance from 2016 until 2020. His training begun with jazz and tap under Jodie Greenwood at Upstage Dance Academy. Jacob has been a proud member of Actor's Equity since 2022. It is indeed a recent professional debut and STAGES is delighted to welcome Jacob onto STAGES and applaud his new adventure ‘on the boards!’ The STAGES podcast is available to access and subscribe from Spotify and Apple podcasts. Or from wherever you access your favourite podcasts. A conversation with creatives about craft and career. Recipient of Best New Podcast at 2019 Australian Podcast Awards. Follow socials on instagram (stagespodcast) and facebook (Stages). | |||
| 30 Aug 2024 | STAGES Episode 516: SILVIE PALADINO | 00:53:03 | |
Silvie Paladino has established herself as one of Australia’s most versatile and talented entertainers. Her first theatrical role was Eponine in the Australasian tour of Les Misérables. She was then invited to perform the same role on the West End in the London production. In 1997, Silvie returned to London and performed the role of Fantine in Les Misérables for a successful two-year season. Silvie’s other Australasian credits include the role of Jeannie in Hair, Grizabella in the Australian and Asian tour of Cats, Ellen in Cameron Mackintosh’s Australian premiere of Miss Saigon, Donna in the smash hit Mamma Mia!, Rita in the world premiere of Sideshow Alley, Lady Thiang in The King And I, Florence in Chess (Green Room Award and Helpmann nomination), Clara in Stephen Sondheim’s Passion, Helen Bechdel in MTC’s Fun Home and the Fairy Godmother, in Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella. She has performed as guest solo artist with Australia’s leading orchestras and has also toured with Patrizio Buanne and Michael Bolton. She has had the honour of performing with celebrated theatre composers Stephen Schwartz and Stephen Sondheim. Silvie is also well known to Australian audiences through her performances at special events including the AFL Grand Final, NRL Grand Final, The Boxing Day Cricket Test, The Asia Pacific Special Olympics, The Olympic Dinner in Beijing, A Night with Roger Federer and Friends – and regular television appearances including Carols by Candlelight. Her recordings include Silvie Paladino Sings Streisand (a live recording of her one-woman show for which she was nominated for a Green Room Award), Silvie Paladino – Christmas List, On My Own, When You Believe, O Holy Night and I Give You My Heart with the Salvation Army Band. Silvie is currently playing the role of Norma Desmond at select performances in Opera Australia’s production of Sunset Boulevard. The STAGES podcast is available to access and subscribe from Spotify and Apple podcasts. Or from wherever you access your favourite podcasts. A conversation with creatives about craft and career. Follow socials on instagram (stagespodcast) and facebook (Stages). | |||
| 22 Nov 2023 | ‘Queens of the Night’ - Opera Collaborators; Kate Gaul and Andy Dexterity | 00:43:56 | |
Mozart’s The Magic Flute will be presented by Opera Australia during their Summer season in early 2024. At the helm of the production is Director Kate Gaul. An artist of tremendous invention and imagination. The production she conjures will thrill and seduce, as this opera favourite is brought to vivid life. Assisting Kate as Movement Director is frequent collaborator, Andy Dexterity. His eclectic style and command of the physical always delights and sheds enlightening perspective. Both were guests in early seasons of the STAGES podcast. It was a treat to catch up with them once again to hear what’s been happening in their worlds and what we can look forward to in the world of The Magic Flute. Kate has been directing full-time since completing the NIDA Director’s course in 1996 and has established herself as a distinctive and inventive director, with productions for such companies as Pinchgut Opera, Belvoir St Theatre, Ensemble Theatre, Griffin Theatre and Melbourne Theatre Company. Kate’s productions include The End of Winter, Camp!, Good With Maps, The Trouble with Harry, The Ham Funeral, A Midsummer Night’s Dream (Britten), Misterman, Invisible Circus, Il Matrimonio Segreto (Conservatorium of Music), Castor et Pollux (Pinchgut Opera), The New Electric Ballroom and Carmen (OzOpera). Andy Dexterity is a Green Room Award-nominated performance maker primarily recognised for his unique brand of movement, fusing dance, physical theatre and physical languages. Andy is fascinated by the way we communicate and interact as a species and Andy creates playful work with the intention to empower, connect and transcend linguistic boundaries. The Magic Flute plays the Sydney Opera House February 1st to March 16th, 2024 | |||
| 05 Oct 2023 | The STAGES Podcast - VALE Episode - Jacqueline Dark | 01:04:32 | |
Hello. Thanks for checking in to this repeat performance of a STAGES conversation, recorded with the divine Jacqueline Dark in April 2019. | |||
| 24 Jul 2021 | 'Make My Song Take Flight' - Actor/Singer, Josh Piterman | 01:03:27 | |
Josh Piterman grew up with a love of sport, playing AFL and Tennis. He might have pursued excellence in these arenas but instead his passion for entertaining and singing took him to The University of Ballarat Arts Academy where he graduated with a Bachelor of Arts (Music Theatre) in 2006.
His musical theatre credits include playing 'Bustopher Jones' in Cats, a role that won him the Green Room Award for Best Supporting Actor in A Musical; 'Edward' in Willy Russell's Blood Brothers; Corny Collins in the UK tour of Hairspray; Ramon Gutierrez in An Officer And A Gentleman; 'Michael' in Grease 2 and 'The Caliph' in Kismet. Other credits include 'Giuseppe' in The Light in the Piazza, 'George' in The Drowsy Chaperone and 'Jamie' in The Last Five Years.
Josh commenced his career performing with the International group, The Ten Tenors and then made his mark as 'Tony' in the 2010 tour of West Side Story.
Josh played the role of 'Gerry Goffin' in the national tour of Beautiful - The Carole King Musical. He released his debut album Josh Piterman; a collaboration with John Foreman of contemporary pop songs with a classical twist, on Fanfare Records.
Josh Piterman was the most recent Phantom in the brilliant original West End Production of The Phantom of the Opera in London, prior to the COVID shutdown. On the eve of commencing rehearsals for an Australian production of the show, and an opportunity to deliver his Phantom to a home crowd, producers regretfully announced a postponement of the show to 2022, owing to the obstacles presented in this time of the COVID pandemic.
In this episode Josh reflects on his stellar career thus far - and the disappointment delivered by the creative hiatus, that has impacted artists around the globe.
The STAGES podcast is available from Apple podcasts, Whooshkaa and Spotify. Or, from where you find your favourite podcasts. www.stagespodcast.com.au
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| 30 Mar 2025 | STAGES Episode 556: JOHN O’MAY | 01:20:37 | |
John O’May has worked in all areas of the entertainment industry encompassing music theatre, cabaret, drama, opera, concerts, comedy, radio, writing and directing. His music theatre credits include Godspell, The 20’s And All That Jazz, Seven Little Australians (which he also directed), HMS Pinafore, Crazy For You, The Merry Widow, A Little Night Music (for which he won his first Green Room Award for Leading Male Performer), The Phantom Of The Opera (in the roles of both M. Firmin and M. Andre both in Australia and internationally), Mamma Mia! and The Light In The Piazza (produced, directed and starred in this award winning show’s only Australian production). John played the lead role of Georges in La Cage aux Folles, Captain Bracket in the acclaimed Opera Australia production of South Pacific, Doctor Tambourri in Passion, Cardinal Felici in the international tour of The Last Confession with David Suchet, Herr Schultz in the musical Cabaret and Grandpa Joe in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. John has worked extensively with the Melbourne and Sydney Theatre Companies. For The Production Company John has played Major Bouvier/Norman Vincent Peale in Grey Gardens, Elijah Whitney in Anything Goes, General Harrison Howell/Harry Trevor in Kiss Me Kate, and Nicky Arnstein in Funny Girl.His film and TV credits include A Heartbeat Away, City Homicide, The Games, Carson’s Law, Between Wars, Starstruck and the ABC series The Divorce opposite Lisa McCune and Marina Prior. He can currently be seen in the Robbie Williams bio-pic, Better Man. John recently played the role of Roland in Melbourne Theatre Company’s production of Bloom and joins the show once again for its present season at the Sydney Theatre Company. The STAGES podcast is available to access and subscribe from Spotify and Apple podcasts. Or from wherever you access your favourite podcasts. A conversation with creatives about craft and career. Follow socials on instagram (stagespodcast) and facebook (Stages). | |||
| 14 Oct 2020 | 'Do you have Oklahoma?', Theatre Maker and Venue Manager, Bob Peet | 01:20:13 | |
Bob Peet is a consummate man of the theatre. He is genial, passionate and accomplished, having navigated many roles and positions over several decades.
His professional theatre career commenced in 1959 when he joined the Tintookie Puppet Company as a trainee puppeteer, eventually being appointed Head Puppeteer. Bob toured Australia several times with the company and spent six months touring fourteen countries through South East Asia.
He then moved into venue management and opened and managed seven performing arts complexes around the country. These included Ipswich Civic Hall, Orange Civic Theatre, The Araluen Arts and Cultural Centre in Alice Springs and the Illawarra Performing Arts Centre. Back in Sydney he became the Manager of the Sydney Lyric Theatre at the Star City Casino.
Never one to sit idle, Bob returned to touring and embarked on a world first, touring the musical Cats in a 2000 seat big top! This fourteen month tour covered most of Australia, and led to further tours of Grease and Shout! The Legend of the Wild One. A four year period as Front of House Manager at Riverside Theatres brought Bob's professional career to a close.
Bob has been Miranda Musical Society's resident designer for countless years. He has designed and created sets for over 40 of the company's productions. Simultaneously he produced sets for professional companies, community theatre groups and schools. In recent times Bob has directed productions of Les Misérables, Annie, Evita, Shout! The Legend of the Wild One, Beauty and the Beast and The Producers for MMS.
Bob is now ready to take a break and recently announced his retirement. He will be missed by many of the folk who have had the pleasure to work alongside him; and by audiences who have appreciated the work conceived and delivered by this quiet and humble theatre-maker. Stages was thrilled to traverse Bob's story and to enjoy him recount a vivid and magical life on and around stages.
The Stages podcast is available from Apple podcasts, Spotify, Whooshkaa and where all good podcasts are found.
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| 29 Oct 2022 | ‘The Rain in Spain ...’ - Voice Consultant and Teacher; Julia Moody | 00:54:27 | |
Julia Moody has a Graduate Diploma in Voice Studies from NIDA (Sydney), a BA from Curtin University (Perth), is a fully accredited Associate teacher of Fitzmaurice Voicework (New York), and did her actor training at the Bristol Old Vic Theatre School (UK). She has performed as an actor in Theatre, Film, TV, and Radio with companies across Australia. Julia has been voice and accent coach on over 300 professional theatre productions. She has worked as a Voice trainer and Consultant in the professional media with SBS TV and Radio since 1994, and with ABC TV, Channel 10, Open Channel, Public Radio News, RTRFM, 5UV, and 6PR. She works internationally, running bespoke voice training sessions for professional speakers in all domains: the corporate arena, the professional media, education, theatre and film; with politicians, legal professionals, medical professionals, sporting professionals, and many others. Julia has lectured in Voice at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts, the Victorian College of the Arts School of Drama, the University of Ballarat Academy of Performing Arts, and was Head of Voice in the Acting Department of the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts at Edith Cowan University for 21 years. The STAGES podcast is available to access and subscribe from Spotify and Apple podcasts. Or from wherever you access your favourite podcasts. A conversation with creatives about craft and career. Recipient of Best New Podcast at 2019 Australian Podcast Awards. Follow socials on instagram (stagespodcast) and facebook (Stages). | |||
| 20 Nov 2021 | STAGES SPOTLIGHT: CONVERSATIONS REVISITED - MARK MORRISSEY from August 29th, 2019 | 01:00:13 | |
With over 230 episodes in the STAGES archive, it's time to revisit conversations featured in previous seasons. STAGES spotlights such episodes, in case you missed them first time 'round - or so you can simply savour a second listen. Either way, you'll be accessing precious oral histories from the people who were there, on and around our stages.
Mark Morrissey is one of the elders of the Agent profession in Australia. Now in his 36th year, Morrissey Management represents and guides the careers of many of our finest actors on local and world stages.
Morrissey began his career as an actor in television shows like Rafferty's Rules, Sons and Daughters and Prisoner; a perfect vantage point to garner essential experience by observing work behind the camera. The knowledge acquired would inform his ambition and understanding, ultimately propelling him into a position as one of the country's best.
A meeting with Mark is met with charm, calm and a keen desire to contribute to an ever evolving industry.
The Stages podcast is available from Apple podcasts, Spotify, Whooshkaa and where you find your favourite podcasts. www.stagespodcast.com.au
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| 29 Feb 2020 | 'Creating New Work' - Theatre Maker, Jeffrey Jay Fowler | 00:51:54 | |
Jeffrey Jay Fowler is a playwright, dramaturg, director and actor. He wrote and acted in the award winning shows A History of Drinking and Elephants. He has performed in and co-created Fag/Stag, Bali, The Advisors; and with The Last Great Hunt Company presented All That Glitters and Le Nor (The Rain). His other plays include Minnie & Mona Play Dead, Price Tag, Improvement Club and Hope is the Saddest.
He is a founding artist with The Last Great Hunt, a company 'determined to produce quality and relevant new work that is simultaneously artistically rigorous and engages audiences to be moved, inspired and challenged. Within this ethos, the artists have diverse range of aesthetics that results in the creation of an eclectic mix of work'.
His post-graduate studies were in Directing at NIDA, soon returning to Perth to embrace the vivid arts scene and continue a collaborative conversation, telling necessary stories, stimulating audiences and making excellent theatre. He has been an Associate Director of Black Swan State Theatre Company in Perth, where he established the emerging writers program and continues the artistic conversation with The Last Great Hunt - the next generation of theatre-makers in WA.
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| 07 Apr 2023 | ‘You’ll Always Hit the Spot, Big Shot’ - Actor, Presenter, Performer; Todd McKenney - Part 3 | 00:54:37 | |
One of Australia’s most versatile performing artists, Todd McKenney is an award winning and critically acclaimed performer on stage and screen. As an actor and the leading man of song and dance in musical theatre productions, he has entertained Australians for 40 years, from the main stage to intimate venues. It’s not surprising that Todd McKenney is a household name. National exposure came with his delicious portrayal of the acerbic adjudicator on Dancing with the Stars - a television juggernaut that has completed multiple seasons. Todd’s stage credit roll and career highlights include his most notable role of Peter Allen in the Australian hit production The Boy From Oz, in which he performed over 1000 shows nationally and became one of the longest running and most successful musical productions in Australian history. Todd’s first professional musical role was in 1983 in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Song and Dance. His career followed with lead and headline roles in Cats, 42nd Street, West Side Story, Crazy For You, Born Yesterday, Camelot, Pirates of Penzance, Cabaret, Strictly Ballroom, La Cage aux Folles, Singin’ In the Rain, Priscilla Queen of the Desert, Orpheus In the Underworld for Opera Australia, Annie the Musical, Grease, Six Dance Lessons in Six Weeks and Anything Goes. In 2018 he stepped into the stilettos and successfully took on the role of Frank N’ Furter in The Rocky Horror Show in Melbourne. In 2019 Todd stepped out on stage as Australia’s Greatest Showman in the title role of Barnum, and most recently played Lord Farquaad in the hit musical Shrek and Lord Chancellor Sebastian in Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella. As a dancer, his journey started at the age of three at his mother’s dancing school in Perth, training in jazz, tap, acrobatics and ballroom dancing. He represented Australia in ballroom and Latin American dancing, winning many international dance titles. Amongst his Australian awards for performance in musical theatre he has two Mo Awards, the Variety Club Heart Award, the Glug Award, the Green Room Award, two Australian Dance Awards and a Helpmann Award. On the small screen Todd has starred in the hit show Winners and Losers on the 7 Network. He has also appeared as a guest judge on Australia’s Got Talent, hosted on a range of morning Television programs and appeared as an entertaining guest across all networks. On radio Todd co-hosted Sydney’s MIX106.5 breakfast radio program with Sonia Kruger for two years and is a regular guest on the airwaves. In 2020, Todd played Lewis in the award winning feature film Unsound. On the small screen Todd has appeared in the acclaimed ABC series Significant Others; an engrossing, intelligently crafted six-part series about a missing persons case. On a personal level, Todd had the delight of becoming a father in 2007 and his daughter Charlotte is the light of his life. He is a student of Auslan sign language and has worked within the deaf community all around Australia. Todd is also a keen supporter of The Grace Centre For Newborn Intensive Care at the Children’s Hospital at Westmead and the Cerebral Palsy Alliance. Over the past year, Todd has starred as Wilbur Turnblad in Hairspray the Musical and Sebastian in Cinderella. In 2023 he commences a tour of his one-man show - Todd McKenney sings Peter Allen and lots more! A perfect way to celebrate 40 years on the boards! For dates and details go to www.toddmckenney.com.au The STAGES podcast is available to access and subscribe from Spotify and Apple podcasts. Or from wherever you access your favourite podcasts. A conversation with creatives about craft and career. Follow socials on instagram (stagespodcast) and facebook (Stages). | |||
| 08 Dec 2023 | ‘Do you know what it means to miss New Orleans?’ - Jazz Virtuoso; Emma Pask | 01:00:32 | |
Award winning vocalist Emma Pask, has firmly established herself as one of Australia’s favourite voices in Jazz. Her effortless, honest stage presence combined with her powerful vocal ability, leaves audiences spellbound and inspired whenever she takes to the stage. While Emma’s voice and style are unique, and individually her own, her performances are reminiscent of the classic era of jazz, when swing was top of the charts. Her talent was first spotted by internationally renowned Jazz great James Morrison, when she was just 16 years old. She joined his band as the lead vocalist and went on to spend a solid 20 years touring the world with Morrison. On request Emma performed the Bridal Waltz for Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban at their wedding. More recently she played support to Legendary Guitarist/Vocalist George Benson when he toured Australia. Emma opened for Grammy Award winning American vocalist Kurt Elling, on his 2018 Australian Tour. Emma is a “Mo’ award winner for Jazz Vocalist of the year, and has received two ARIA award nominations for Best Jazz Album of the Year in 2014 and 2016. Emma has had the honour to sing for VIP audiences including the late Diana Princess of Wales and Princess Mary of Denmark. She has sung in London at The Queen Elizabeth Hall with the BBC Concert Orchestra, the Sydney Opera House with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra. Emma has performed in China with The Shanghai Symphony Orchestra, Auckland with the NZ Philharmonic, and with the WA Symphony Orchestra in Perth. In 2019 the Emma Pask Band headlined at the Havana Jazz Festival in Cuba. Emma has toured her band throughout Europe, Asia and Australia. She has received rave reviews for her performances in Uruguay, South America, and is a regular at the prestigious Ascona Jazz Festival in Switzerland. Despite her achievements and the international recognition of her talent, Emma retains her natural, refreshing and unpretentious, positive approach to life. Jazz virtuoso James Morrison says of Emma, “Whilst it’s fashionable to be a jazz singer these days, she is the real thing!” In 2020 amidst the Covid 19 lockdown, Emma was chosen by The Sydney Opera House to launch the first of their concerts live streamed from the stage of the hallowed Joan Sutherland Theatre. This performance won the offical Time Out (in) award for favourite Arts livestream. In 2021 The Emma Pask Big Band brought Sydney’s music scene back to life after lockdown, as they featured with a sold out performance at Sunset Piazza. | |||
| 07 Aug 2021 | 'High Flying Adored' - Musical Theatre Actor, Yvette Robinson | 00:48:09 | |
Yvette Robinson trained at the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts. She has carved an exciting career in musical theatre roles in Australia, Europe and the U.K.
Her numerous credits in London's West End include: The Woman in Blues in the Night (The New Wolsley Theatre), alternate Eva Peron in Michael Grandage's revival of Evita (The Adelphi Theatre), and Lead Woman in Side by Side by Sondheim. She was an original cast member of The Woman in White and also played the role of Marian Halcombe, at The Palace Theatre.
Yvette returned to the Palace theatre as Marion in Priscilla: Queen of the Desert and her extensive stage resume includes Marguerite, Bare, Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown and Fatbusters.
Through Europe she played the roles of Pearl & Dinah in Starlight Express in Germany, for over a year before moving to London. Yvette also performed as the alternate Donna in the International tour of Mamma Mia and performed I Do! I Do! at the Vienna English Theatre and Chess in Oslo, Norway.
In Australia, Yvette's credits include: Julie Rooney in Jolson - The Musical; Factory girl & covering the role of Fantine in the 20th Anniversary Production of Les Miserables; alternate Belle in Beauty & The Beast: Original cast member and Ellen cover in the cast of Miss Saigon; Eliza Doolittle in My Fair Lady, alternative Eva & the Mistress in Evita and the Bakers Wife in Into the Woods.
Yvette has appeared on television in the role of Polly Posh in Cushion Kids for the Nine Network and in The Kosmos Kids for Wave Entertainment. She joined Harry Connick Junior and Glenn Close, as Nurse Heedy in the screen version of South Pacific and is on the original cast recording of Andrew Lloyd Webber's The Woman in White.
Yvette also writes and records her own original music and performs throughout London at many acoustic live music venues.
The STAGES podcast is available from Apple podcasts, Spotify and Whooshkaa. Also where you find your favourite podcasts. www.stagespodcast.com.au
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| 09 Jun 2024 | ‘Satin on my Shoulder and a Smile on my Lips’ - Stage and Screen Favourite; Genevieve Lemon Pt2 | 00:52:15 | |
Genevieve Lemon has appeared in many premiere Australian productions in a 40-plus year career including Steaming, Steel Magnolias, Seventeen, Miracle City, Priscilla, Queen of the Desert and Billy Elliot, which she also played in London’s West End. | |||
| 18 Nov 2020 | 'Climbing the Tree' - Actor, Ditch Davey | 01:04:32 | |
Ditch Davey is a charming bloke and a terrific actor. Following study at the West Australian Academy of Performing Arts he cut his teeth on a series of commercial and series work with All Saints, Above The Law, Water Rats and the telemovie Do Or Die.
It wasn't long before her arrived permanently on our screens in the guise of Constable Evan Jones in the police drama, Blue Heelers. This stint garnered him the Logie Award for Most Popular New Male Talent.
Davey went on to host Channel Seven's Police Files - Unlocked before leaving to work on Sea Patrol. He played SAS officer Jim Roth on a semi-regular basis. He portrayed Romeo in the 2012 Australian Science-Fiction Film Crawlspace. He featured in the final season of Spartacus: War of the Damned.
Film engagements have followed and a role as Dr Ian Bickman in the US produced series Black Box; a medical drama which screened on the ABC network. Davey starred alongside Terry Kinney and Vanessa Redgrave.
Ditch Davey can presently be seen in Home & Away as Summer Bay's new medic, Dr Christian Green.
It had been a few years since I last caught up with Ditch. Nothing had changed. He possessed the same charming, funny and contagious spirit that has obviously propelled him into a triumphant career on screens and stage.
The Stages podcast is available from Apple podcasts, Spotify, Whooshkaa and where all good podcasts are found.
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| 12 Nov 2022 | ‘Nice Work’ - Veteran Actor; Sal Sharah Pt2 | 01:10:45 | |
Sal Sharah is an actor and singer who studied at the Actors Conservatory under the tutelage of Brian Syron and Henry Bannister. He trained in singing with Dot Mendoza and Dance with Keith Bain. Sal’s Theatre credits include the role of Sahir in Jump for Jordan (Griffin), Miss Julie (STC), Les Enfants du Paradis (Belvoir), The Rise and Fall of Little Voice (STC), Hakawati (National Theatre of Parramatta/Sydney Festival), Felliniada (Belvoir/Auto de Fe); Salome (Crossroads); My Son the Lawyer is Drowning (Ensemble Theatre); Alex & Eve (Bulldog Theatre Company) and Grace Under Pressure. Musical theatre forays include Guys and Dolls, Aladdin, Grease, Sunset Boulevard and My Fair Lady. Sal originated the role of Riff Raff in Australia, in Harry M. Millar’s celebrated production of The Rocky Horror Show. Sal’s Television credits include a host of classic and groundbreaking programs; The Code, Rake, Major Crime, East West 101, Water Rats, All Saints, Wildside, Heartbreak High, Mission Impossible, GP, A Country Practice and The Restless Years. His film credits include the role of Nick in The Boys (Arenafilms), Chain Reaction (Palm Beach Pictures), Iman in Alex and Eve, Section 29, Hostage and The Custodian. Sal has navigated a rich variety of theatrical experience on stage and behind the scenes. He generously charts his career and provides unique insight of a wondrous profession, in a challenging industry, in this fascinating 2-episode conversation of the STAGES podcast. The STAGES podcast is available to access and subscribe from Spotify and Apple podcasts. Or from wherever you access your favourite podcasts. A conversation with creatives about craft and career. Recipient of Best New Podcast at 2019 Australian Podcast Awards. Follow socials on instagram (stagespodcast) and facebook (Stages). | |||