Curve in Conversation: Recent Episodes
Curve
Curve in Conversation takes you behind-the-scenes of Leicester's Curve theatre, giving you exciting insights into the work you see both on - and off - our stages.
Curve is alive with THE SOUND OF MUSIC!
With rehearsals for our Made at Curve Christmas production of THE SOUND OF MUSIC well underway, our host Martin Ballard made a visit to catch up with some of the cast and creatives.
Hear from our returning leads David Seadon-Young and Molly Lynch about how this iconic musical is still so relevant today and how excited they are to spend another festive season in Leicester.
Also joining Martin on his trip to Salzburg (aka. the rehearsal room) are cast members Aviva Tulley, Minal Patel, Mark Peachy and Choreographer Ebony Molina.
Do not miss your chance to get this exclusive look behind-the-scenes at Curve!
In this month’s episode of Curve in Conversation, we blast off into the extra-terrestrial world of ALIENS LOVE PANTA CLAUS as we’re joined by Jude Taylor, the show’s Music and Lyrics creator. Jude shares the creative process for composing music for children’s theatre and gives a sneak peek into the exciting workshop on Tuesday 9 December where you can have give it a try yourself!
Here at Curve, we work hard to ensure the magic of live theatre is accessible for all. To shine a light on the range of performances we offer, Audiences and Access Coordinator Lisa Brain joins us to talk about upcoming access performances, including British Sign Language interpreted, Relaxed, Dementia Friendly and more.
To wrap things up, host Martin Ballard chats with comedy duo Jonty Stephens and Ian Ashpitel – better known as ERIC & ERN! Discover how their tribute to the legendary Morecambe and Wise began with impromptu impressions at a golf club and grew into a full-scale production, exclusively at Curve this January. Marking the 100th birthdays of the icons, expect all your favourite sketches and plenty of laughs.
With autumn in full swing, our host Martin Ballard checks in with MATILDA’s ballroom loving mother Mrs Wormwood, aka. Rebecca Thornhill. This smash hit Royal Shakespeare Company production prepares to open right here in Leicester next month, and Rebecca sheds light on why the show has been such a fan favourite.
We’ll soon be welcoming an iconic showbiz pair to our Studio stage, as NOEL & GERTIE prepares to introduce audiences to a world of laughter, music and showbiz charm. Gary Tushaw will take on the role of Noël Coward, and he shares why his character’s friendship with Gertrude Lawrence became so admired.
Our fantastic runners are preparing to take part in the Run Leicester Half Marathon and 10km as part of the Curve Run Challenge. By taking part, our representatives will raise money to help support Curve's mission to ensure all young people, regardless of their background or financial circumstances, can access, enjoy and shape the future of theatre. Martin speaks to Laura Kearsley of Nelsons all about why she has volunteered to run for Team Curve.
Also in this episode, hear more from Curve's Senior Lighting Technician and Curve Young & Community Company (CYCC) Tech group leader, Nathan Clamp, who tells us more about inspiring the next generation of theatre technicians.
With the Christmas season here at Curve fast approaching, our host Martin Ballard chats with director Julia Thomas about the magic behind our Made at Curve Christmas family show, ALIENS LOVE PANTA CLAUS. From funky dance numbers to red-nosed reindeer, Julia shares her imaginative vision for this out-of-this-world holiday production.
We also celebrate the thrilling announcement of our upcoming revival of Kander and Ebb’siconic musical KISS OF THE SPIDER WOMAN, co-produced with Bristol Old Vic and Mayflower Southampton. Director Paul Foster joins us to talk about bringing this powerful story back to the UK stage for the first major revival since 1992.
And finally, hear from BAFTA winner and Golden Globe nominee Cathy Tyson, who gives us a glimpse into her portrayal of Martha in Edward Albee’s classic WHO’S AFRAID OF VIRGINIA WOOLF? Cathy explores the complex mind of her character, delving into the fantasies that keep the relationship with her husband George alive, and why this production promises to be a once-in-a-lifetime theatrical experience.
Hear all this and more in this month’s episode of Curve in Conversation!
With the summer holidays in full swing, host Martin Ballard chats with Curve’s Schools & Community Partnerships Manager, Lorrine Douglas, about the exciting line-up of summer workshops for young people this August. From Dance and Musical Theatre to Play in a Day, Lorrine shares what participants can expect from these fun, hands-on sessions designed to spark creativity and confidence.
We’re also joined by Scott Graham, Artistic Director of the acclaimed theatre company Frantic Assembly, as they celebrate 30 years of ground-breaking work with their latest production, LOST ATOMS. Co-produced by Curve, Mayflower Southampton, and Lyric Hammersmith Theatre, this new piece explores how memory shapes our understanding of love and questions what truly defines a “successful” relationship. Scott reflects on Frantic Assembly’s legacy and gives us a glimpse into what audiences can expect from this powerful new show.
Finally, Curve’s Associate Director Cara Nolan offers insight into her approach to the upcoming Made at Curve production of WHO’S AFRAID OF VIRGINIA WOOLF?. She shares fascinating details about playwright Edward Albee and the unexpected inspiration behind the story, explaining why this iconic drama is a must-see.
Things are about to get kooky and spooky at Curve as THE ADDAMS FAMILY takes over our stage this summer. In this episode of Curve in Conversation, fan favourite Wednesday Addams aka Lauren Jones makes her triumphant return to Leicester!
Lauren talks all about her journey into the world of theatre, ranging from her first experience on the stage to her adventures as part of Curve’s Community Company. Hear all about this local star and what it’s like to be taking on this iconic role.
Also in this episode, hear from the students of Leicester taking part in Speak Up. This secondary school programme in collaboration with the National Theatre sees young people working with local artists and teachers on creative projects.
Lastly, JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT will bring a rainbow of colour and song to Curve. Christina Bianco of the cast talks all about this renowned production and why it’s one you can’t miss.
It’s the 50th episode of Curve in Conversation!
Thank you to all our listeners who have continued to join us behind-the-scenes at Curve and the fantastic productions that grace our stages.
In this month’s episode, we explore the colourful world of brand-new musical INDIGO. Our host Martin Ballard is joined by Katie Cailean who takes on the role of Emma, and The Bill’s Lisa Maxwell who plays her grandmother Elaine. Following three generations of women and looking into themes including Alzheimer’s, Autism and Synaesthesia, hear why this premiere production should be on your to do list this summer.
Strictly Come Dancing’s Janette Manrara enters the Razzle Dazzle of CHICAGO which arrives on Curve’s stage this June. Janette speaks of her journey from TV star to theatre debut, and how excited she is to take on the complex role of Roxie Hart.
Preparations for our newest Made at Curve productions are well under way! Hear from Nikolai Foster and David Seadon Young of our Christmas musical THE SOUND OF MUSIC, and Cara Nolan’s vision for WHO’S AFRAID OF VIRGINIA WOOLF?
Lastly, Curve staff member Megan Cliffe returns to the podcast to discuss her journey from Stage Door Reception to the producing and programming department!
It’s that time again – another brand-new episode of Curve in Conversation is here!
This month, our host Martin Ballard speaks to star of KIM’S CONVENIENCE James Yi, as this hit show heads out on its first UK tour. James talks all about this heartwarming drama which inspired the Netflix show of the same name, and why this production has become so meaningful for its audiences.
We then prepare for BAT OUT OF HELL to ignite Curve’s stage this June as this ultimate rock experience showcases the iconic music of Jim Steinman and Meat Loaf. Taking on the role of Sloane, Sharon Sexton talks all about the impact that this musical duo had on classic rock and why this musical production is not to be missed.
Finally, musical royalty Sir Tim Rice explores his journey into musical theatre ahead of the arrival of his show My Life in Musicals – I Know Him So Will. We also learn about how Leicester and Curve has impacted Sir Tim’s career and why he looks forward to returning.
Hear all this and more in this new episode!
It’s time to go behind-the-scenes of another Made at Curve production!
Join our host Martin Ballard for this brand-new episode of Curve in Conversation as he steps foot into the rehearsal room for MURIEL’S WEDDING THE MUSICAL.
Martin is joined by best of friends Muriel & Rhonda, aka Megan Ellis and Annabel Marlow as they talk all about the bond between their characters and the journey of self-discovery that they embark on.
Making his Curve debut, Darren Day talks all about his character, Muriel’s father Bill Heslop and why he is so excited to work on this UK premiere right here in Leicester.
Also hear from Ethan Pascal Peters who takes on the role of Muriel’s not so great date, Brice Nobes, who talks through how rehearsals have been going.
Hear all this and more in this episode of Curve in Conversation.
For this episode of Curve in Conversation, we take a look at Theatre Nation Partnerships – a collaborative network of arts organisations aiming to strengthen their relationships with local audiences, schools and communities – and the impacts of Curve’s involvement.
Hear from the National Theatre’s Head of National Partnerships Kiri Grant,as she delves into the amazing work of the collaboration and the projects coming up soon.
Director of Creative Programmes here at Curve, Kay Hardiman showcases how the partnerships have added to the accessibility of arts in the Leicester area, and the other great work our teams have achieved in the local community.
To round up the episode, returning to Leicester after last year’s hit Made at Curve production of MY FAIR LADY, Sarah Moyle takes on the role of Queen Elizabeth in HANDBAGGED. This Theatre Nation Partnerships production of Moira Buffini’s clever comedy is a fly-on-the-wall look at what might have happened when Queen Elizabeth II and Margaret Thatcher came face-to-face in the privacy of the palace. Sarah talks all about the challenges of taking on the role of this influential historical figure, and how excited she is to share the production across the country (especially Leicester!).
Hear all this and more in this episode of Curve in Conversation.
Happy new year!
For the first full episode of Curve In Conversation of 2025, our host Martin Ballard explores some of the exciting shows arriving in Leicester over the next couple of months.
Kicking things off with an insight into George Orwell’s chilling and timeless classic ANIMAL FARM, actor Sam Black delves into his character of Boxer and the strong themes of power and revolution which run throughout the production.
Then be transported to the world of Shakespearean Verona as & JULIET considers what would’ve happened if Juliet ditched her famous ending? Taking on the role of Anne Hathaway in this pop anthem filled musical, Lara Denning shares why this production is perfect for everyone and what it’s like working with her famous co-stars.
Rollin’ into Curve this March to kick off its first ever UK and Ireland tour, West End mega-hit TINA – The Tina Turner Musical explores the life of one of the most iconic performers in history. Elle Ma-Kinga N’Zuzi takes on the role of Tina Turner in this fierce production which is set to the pulse-pounding soundtrack of Turner’s iconic hits. Hear all about her excitement for taking on the role in this month’s episode of Curve In Conversation.
Note – this episode contains strong language.
In this special bonus episode of Curve in Conversation, hear how hit-songwriting duo Kate Miller-Heidke and Keir Nuttall composed brand-new music for MURIEL’S WEDDING THE MUSICAL.
The acclaimed production is based on the iconic 90s film and had its world premiere in Australia in 2017. This spring, the musical will make its UK premiere at Curve where it will run 10 April to 10 May.
Talking to host Martin Ballard, Kate and Keir discuss how they first became involved in the production, their approach to creating a score that would bring the story to life through music and how things are shaping up for the show’s very first run in the UK.
As 2024 draws to a close, we’re taking a look at some of the fantastic productions playing at Curve early next year.
Our host Martin Ballard catches up with Leicester local Kraig Thornber of THE LION, THE WITCH AND THE WARDROBE, as Kraig talks about why he can’t wait to bring this magical show to his hometown in late January.
We also look back at Curve’s season preview to hear from Megan Ellis, Annabel Marlow and Isaac Hayward of MURIEL’S WEDDING THE MUSICAL! Preparations are well underway ahead of the Curve UK premiere for this cult classic film adaptation – keep a look out for a special bonus episode coming soon.
As well as all this, Martin sat down with KINKY BOOTS cast members Dan Partridge and Scott Paige as they prepared for rehearsals to begin. Voicing their excitement to work with the fantastic team and get to work in the factory, they also learn of Leicester’s local connections to the shoe industry.
Hear all this and more in the last episode of Curve in Conversation for 2024!
To celebrate the opening of our loverly Christmas production MY FAIR LADY, our host Martin Ballard recently made a visit behind-the-scenes of rehearsals for this classic musical comedy.
Hear from cast members David Seadon-Young, Minal Patel, Cathy Tyson, Andy Barke, Sarah Moyle and Steve Furst, as they bring you with them on their trip to 20th Century London.
Exploring their characters and the impact of this well-known story, you do not want to miss this insight into the festive season at Curve!
Ahead of the opening of our Made at Curve Christmas Musical, MY FAIR LADY, Martin Ballard is joined by our very own Eliza Doolittle, Molly Lynch. In this loverly episode, Molly talks all about her journey into the world of theatre, and why she is excited to take on the lead role at Curve this festive season.
Also hear about the show from Artistic director Nikolai Foster, Chief Executive Chris Stafford and MY FAIR LADY cast members Sarah Moyle and Minal Patel as we look back at our most recent Season Preview.
Adding to this jam-packed episode, Martin speaks with Nupur Arts’ Artistic Director Smita Vadnerkar and Associate Director Shreya Vadnerkar, all about the arrival of their show ĀNARTAM, an evening of South Asian Classical Dance. Celebrating the 10th anniversary of Nartan Festival, Smita and Shreya speak about how the festival has developed over the years, and why they are so looking forward to the performance this November.
Following the success of 2023’s staged reading, THE MOUNTAINTOP is back at Curve for a full-scale production. Our host Martin Ballard joined cast members Ray Strasser-King (Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.) and Justina Kehinde (Camae) in the rehearsal room as they prepared to showcase this thrilling and moving look into Martin Luther King’s final hours.
Also appearing in this month’s episode is SIX royalty Vicki Manser, as she gets ready to take on the lead role in the first ever full production of SUPERYOU. With a soundtrack that took the US by storm, Lourds Lane’s epic Rock Opera premieres at Curve later this month. Vicki chats with Martin about her excitement to star in this world first, and why the show is so important for everyone to see.
Hear this and more in September’s episode of Curve in Conversation!
In this month’s episode, we explore the many ways Curve engages with young people. Our host Martin Ballard speaks to Schools & Partnerships Manager Lorrine Douglas and Creative Programmes Practitioner Chandni Mistry about their roles and the positive impact they have on the local community.
Also joining the podcast this month is Curve Youth Panel member, Paula Konasionok. She explains what the Youth Panel is, why she wanted to join, what the team aims to accomplish and how you can join too!
Ahead of the arrival of smash–hit musical, PRETTY WOMAN, Martin chats to “Happy Man/Mr Thompson” Ore Oduba about his fond memories of Curve and his surprising journey into acting.
In this episode, we take you behind the scenes of Curve’s Costume department, as our host Martin Ballard is joined by the Assistant Head of Wardrobe, Lucy Pritchard.
Lucy explains her journey into the costume industry, how a costume goes from idea to reality, and some fun facts about her job that people may not know.
Martin is also joined by James Keningale of THE LION INSIDE as he details the puppetry behind his character, the Mouse. As well as this, Martin speaks to star of AN OFFICER AND A GENTLEMAN, Luke Baker and renowned writer Douglas Day Stewart.
Join us for this July episode of Curve In Conversation.
This jam-packed episode of Curve in Conversation features interviews with members of our Made At Curve production of A CHORUS LINE! Hear our host Martin Ballard talk to the world-renowned choreographer Ellen Kane all about returning to this dazzling production, as well as Associate Director Jennifer Lane Baker as she explains the creative process for the show.
Also hear from FANTASTIC FOXES writer Rob Ward as he chats about why the history of Leicester City Football Club is so interesting, and EVERYBODY’S TALKING ABOUT JAMIE star Sam Bailey shares her excitement for performing in her hometown of Leicester.
Following our hot off the press news that Curve will be staging the UK premiere of MURIEL'S WEDDING THE MUSICAL, hear from renowned director Simon Phillips, and Choreographer Andrew Hallsworth about why you should RSVP to the wedding of the year in 2025.
Our host Martin Ballard is also joined by Nathan Powell, director of THE MOUNTAINTOP, as he explores Martin Luther King Jr’s life, and the personal story of a man behind a revolution.
Adding even more sparkle to this sensational line up, Jocasta Almgill joins the podcast to discuss all things A CHORUS LINE and her journey into performing.
In this month’s episode of Curve in Conversation, Martin Ballard is joined by Curve’s Chief Executive Chris Stafford and Artistic Director Nikolai Foster to discuss some exciting projects coming to the theatre this year.
Martin also talks to Lourds Lane about the triumphant rise of their empowering show SUPER YOU, and Deputy Editor of The Stage Magazine, Matt Hemley discusses his love for Curve theatre.
Pawlet Brookes MBE returns to the podcast to talk all about the exciting events being staged as part of Let's Dance International Frontiers 2024.
Hear from the hard-working team behind-the-scenes at Curve in this month’s Curve in Conversation episode!
Learn more about careers in the theatre from Memberships and Fundraising Coordinator, Roberta Bernardelli, Stage Door Receptionist, Megan Cliffe, Stage and Automation Technician, Jonathan Painting and Audiences and Access Co-ordinator, Lisa Brain. Find out more about how these Team Curve members got into their roles, and what it’s like to work in theatre.
This episode also looks ahead to the arrival of hit musical, BLOOD BROTHERS,which comes to Curve’s stage in April. Our host, Martin Ballard, speaks to Niki Colwell Evans about her role as Mrs Johnstone, and why she has returned to play this character after 10 years.
Join Curve in Conversation for this exclusive look behind the curtain in the Come From Away rehearsals!
This Made at Curve co-production of the award-winning musical has wowed audiences across the globe. Join our host Martin Ballard as he speaks to the cast about this moving production.
Featuring interviews with Sara Poyzer, Oliver Jacobson, Amanda Henderson, Nicholas Pound and Mark Dugdale, listen to find out why the show has been such a hit.
From all at Curve, welcome to the rock!
Join us for the first Curve in Conversation episode of 2024.
This month, Martin speaks with Hareet Deol of My Beautiful Laundrette, exploring his previous work at Curve, and why he’s excited to return to the drama as Salim.
Sister Act’s Landi Oshinowo talks about her unexpected entry into the theatre industry, success on the West End, and the on-stage antics of her character, Deloris Van Cartier.
Finally, Neil Hurst explains what his family thinks of his role in The Full Monty, and why he loves to work on the stage.
The final episode of Curve in Conversation in 2023 is here!
December’s edition flies into The Owl Who Came For Christmas rehearsals, exploring the cast's wide range of talents, as well as how the show has been adapted to welcome everyone into Rosie the Owl’s home.
Get an insight into the smash hit musical, Come From Away, and hear from the writers about the road to theatrical success, including first-hand stories from the residents of the Newfoundland town of Gander who inspired the story.
Finally, Evita cast member Dan Partridge (Magaldi), speaks to host Martin Ballard about coming back to Curve, how audiences have reacted to this new Made at Curve production, and how this experience differs from his previous roles such as Danny in Grease.
In this jam-packed episode of Curve in Conversation, host Martin Ballard enters therehearsal room for our Made at Curve production of Evita.
Featuring interviews with Director Nikolai Foster, Martha Kirby (Eva Perón), Tyrone Huntley (Che), Company Stage Manager Paul Sawtell, Musical Director Ben van Tienen and Gary Milner (Perón), hear all about the show through the words of those involved.
This behind-the-scenes exclusive explores what rehearsals involve, the themes of Evita, entry ways into the theatre industry, plus much more.
Listen now for this exciting look behind the curtain at Curve.
In this episode of Curve in Conversation, host Martin Ballard speaks to Evita choreographer, Adam Murray (Rocketman, Cruella), about the vision for this epic new Made at Curve production.
Martin is also joined by Cara Nolan, Artist Development and New Work Producer at Curve, who is directing this year's festive family Made at Curve show, The Owl Who Came for Christmas. Find out how Cara and the team are approaching this world premiere stage adaptation of the bestselling book by John Hay and Garry Parsons, and working to create a fun show with accessibility and joy at its heart.
Finally, hear from Curve's Chief Executive Chris Stafford and Artistic Director Nikolai Foster as they discuss some exciting returns for acclaimed Made at Curve productions.
Timestamps:
1:05 – My Beautiful Laundrette
4:13 – A Chorus Line
8:55- The Owl Who Came for Christmas
17:46 – Evita
In this jam-packed episode, hear from writer, broadcaster and journalist Danny Robins (Uncanny: I Know What I Saw, 2:22 A Ghost Story), Curve favourite and star of The Drifters Girl Carly Mercedes Dyer, and cast members of the new musical adaptation of Markus Zusak's The Book Thief, including Obioma Ugoala, Jack Lord and Daniel Krikler.
In the latest episode of Curve in Conversation, find out more about two exciting new productions - the powerful musical adaptation of Markus Zusak's novel The Book Thief, and Frantic Assembly's electrifying new take on Franz Kafka's Metamorphosis.
The Book Thief runs at Curve 29 September to 14 October. In this episode, host Martin Ballard catches up with international bestselling author and the musical's co-librettist Jodi Picoult, director Lotte Wakeham and musical director Matthew Malone, as well as young cast members Tilly-Raye Bayer (Liesel) and Preston Cropp (Rudy).
Frantic Assembly's new production of Kafka's Metamorphosis, adapted by Lemn Sissay OBE, comes to Curve 19 to 23 September. In this episode, find out more about the play from cast member Joe Layton.
In this episode hear from Jordan Li-Smith (book, music and lyrics) and Director Alex Sutton as, respectively, they bring the National Youth Music Theatre's productions of The Boy Who Sailed the Ocean in an Armchair and Kiss Me, Kate to Curve this August.
Also, host Martin Ballard catches up with Christina Bianco to find out more about her journey down the Yellow Brick Road from Curve to London's Palladium as Glinda in our production of The Wizard of Oz.
In this episode, host Martin Ballard goes behind-the-scenes with our technical team members to learn more about the vital role they play in the theatre.
Also this month, hear from Curve Creative Programmes Practitioner Chandni Mistry, as she talks about adapting John Hay and Garry Parsons' The Owl Who Came For Christmas, our festive family show.
Finally, Offie Award-winning actress Liv Andrusier tells us about returning to the role of Annie Londonderry in acclaimed new musical Ride, a Made at Curve co-production which hits Leicester in July.
In this episode, join host Martin Ballard as he chats to the cast and creatives of our new Made at Curve co-production of 42nd Street, including director Jonathan Church, chorographer Bill Deamer and cast members Ruthie Henshall, Les Dennis, Adam Garcia and Nicole-Lily Baisden.
Step into the rehearsal room to learn all about Road, this year's Made at Curve and De Montfort University (DMU) co-production. Hear about Abby Clarke's exciting set design and listen to DMU students discuss getting stuck into Jim Cartwright's seminal state-of-the-nation drama, which runs at Curve 18 - 20 May.
Also in this episode, host Martin Ballard speaks with Curve Resident Creative Si Rawlinson to find out more about his work with Curve and new dance theatre production Saving Face, which premieres at the theatre 26 - 27 May.
Finally, hear from cast members of beatbox-play Unexpected Twist, as they prepare to bring this vivid spin on Charles Dickens' classic tale, Oliver Twist, to Curve's stage this June.
In this episode, hear more about the new work being created and shared at Curve as host Martin Ballard speaks to the creatives involved in Curve's New Work Festival, which took place 9 - 12 March.
Martin also catches up with Curve Associate Tasha Taylor Johnson, co-writer of the music and lyrics for new musical Cake, which comes to Curve 18 - 22 April.
At the beginning of February we shared an exciting look at the year ahead at Curve, with exclusive interviews, insights and performances at our spring Season Preview. In this episode, go behind-the-scenes of the event and hear more from those who took part, including The Stage's deputy editor Matt Hemley, BBC Radio Leicester presenter Aminata Kamara, Come From Away West End cast member Alice Fearn and producer Joe Smith, Sucker Punch director Nathan Powell, Girl From the North Country cast member Justina Kehinde, Curve's schools and partnerships manager Lorrine Douglas, The Book Thief cast member Bea Glancy, Curve's artistic director Nikolai Foster and chair of Curve's board, Sita McIntosh.
In the first episode of 2023, find out more about The Spark Festival Curve Community Day, which will see pupils from local schools taking over Curve with a range of creative activities on Saturday 18 February.
Host Martin Ballard also speaks to multi-award-winning Curve Associate Lighting Designer Ben Cracknell about his career in theatre, from his first steps into the industry to lighting productions at Curve including Billy Elliot the Musical, Beautiful - The Carole King Story and The Wizard of Oz.
In the final episode of 2022, Curve's Chief Executive Chris Stafford reflects on the past year and looks ahead to 2023, Leicester's Mark Peachey - The Wizard of Oz himself! - discusses Curve's Christmas production and local actor Daniel Cornish speaks about returning to perform at Curve as part of the National Theatre's tour of The Ocean at the End of the Lane.
In this episode, meet Curve's Creative Programmes Community Practitioner Lily Brearley-Viney and The Wizard of Oz cast members Geoffrey Aymer, Christina Bianco and Jacqui Dubois.
Having just celebrated her first year at Curve, Lily talks to host Martin Ballard about her role and reflects on the last 12 months spent engaging with and building relationships with people and groups all across Leicester's communities.
Rehearsals are underway for this year's Made at Curve Christmas musical, The Wizard of Oz. In this episode, join host Martin Ballard in the rehearsal room as he speaks to Director Nikolai Foster, 'Dorothy' Georgina Onuorah, 'The Wicked Witch of the West' Charlotte Jaconelli and 'Scarecrow' Jonny Fines.
October is Black History Month, and in this episode of Curve in Conversation host Martin Ballard finds out more about what's happening at Curve by speaking with Apphia Campbell (Black is the Color of my Voice), Ameera Conrad (Celebrating Plays of Excellence) and Stephen Hayward (A Final Act of Friendship).
In this episode, host Martin Ballard speaks to Frantic Assembly Artistic Director Scott Graham about the new tour of acclaimed production Othello, co-produced with Curve, which begins in Leicester this September. Martin is also joined by Curve Resident Creative Rob Ward to find out more about an exciting new play commission, his recent run in Edinburgh and what Curve means to him as an artist. Finally, star of Sister Act Sandra Marvin talks about her career so far and how she feels to be bringing this divine musical comedy back to her hometown.
This month, learn more about our Made at Curve community production of Finding Home - Leicester's Ugandan Asian Story at 50 as host Martin Ballard speaks to members of the company and creative team as they prepare to stage three brand new plays from local writers: Ruka, Ninety Days and Call Me By My Name.
In this episode go behind-the-scenes of rehearsals for the new Made at Curve production of Billy Elliot the Musical, with insights from cast members Joe Caffrey and Jessica Daley, as well as Musical Supervisor and Musical Director George Dyer.
You'll also hear more about Riot Act from writer and performer Alexis Gregory. A show created entirely from interviews with three key-players in the history of the LGBTQ+ rights movement, Riot Act is a breath-taking, rip-roaring, white-knuckle ride through six decades of queer history.
In this episode of Curve in Conversation, hear from School of Rock's Jake Sharp, Maggie May Director Jemima Levick and Curve's recently appointed Artist Development and New Work Producer, Julia Thomas.
Look ahead to this Summer's Made at Curve production of Billy Elliot the Musical in the latest episode of Curve in Conversation, featuring interviews with West End and Broadway legend Sally Ann Triplett (Mrs. Wilkinson) and Choreographer Lucy Hind, as well as our young company members talking about their first rehearsal sessions for the show.
Also in this episode, Pawlet Brookes MBE, CEO and Artistic Director of Curve Associate company Serendipity, talks about acclaimed dance festival Let's Dance International Frontiers, which returns to Curve and Leicester from 29 April to 8 May.
Hear interviews with internationally renowned choreographer and director Akram Khan, award-winning writer, historian and journalist Selina Mills, and writer, performer and Curve Creative Programmes Practitioner Chandni Mistry.
This month, host Martin Ballard spends time in the rehearsal room for the new Made at Curve, Theatre Royal Bath Productions and Mayflower Southampton co-production of Beautiful - The Carole King Musical, where he speaks to Director Nikolai Foster, performers Molly-Grace Cutler, Tom Milner, Jos Slovick and Seren Sandham-Davies, as well as on-stage Musical Director and performer Dan de Cruz.
The first Curve in Conversation episode of 2022 features interviews with The Osmonds: A New Musical’s Ryan Anderson, Leicester born-and-bred Ebony Feare and West End favourite Dianne Pilkington, plus Clive Anderson and Curve’s own Creative Venue Technician Apprentice Li Li Peberdy.
In the final Curve in Conversation episode of 2021, host Martin Ballard speaks to A Chorus Line star Carly Mercedes Dyer, Charity Link Director Susan McEniff and Waitress' Chelsea Halfpenny.
In this episode of Curve in Conversation, step behind-the-scenes and into the rehearsal room of our Made at Curve Christmas production of A Chorus Line.
Listen as host Martin Ballard finds out about the show with Director Nikolai Foster, performers Adam Cooper, Beth Hinton-Lever, Kanako Nakano and Chloe Saunders, as well as Musical Supervisor David Shrubsole.
The latest episode of Curve in Conversation, hosted by Martin Ballard,features interviews with national treasure Su Pollard, The Smeds and the SmoosDirector Toby Mitchell and Curve Associate and Nupur Arts’ Artistic Director Smita Vadnerkar,
Hear more about the latest Made at Curve announcements from Artistic Director Nikolai Foster, including exciting news on A Chorus Line casting and Billy Elliot the Musical.
Also in this episode, Samantha Womack discusses her role as the White Witch in the upcoming tour of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, and Burnt Lemon Theatre Producer - and Curve Resident Creative - Tanya Agarwal talks about brand new musical Tokyo Rose.
Step inside the rehearsal room of Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, our Curve, Liverpool Everyman & Playhouse and English Touring Theatre (ETT) co-production, and hear from cast members Siena Kelly (Maggie) and Oliver Johnstone (Brick).
In this episode, host Martin Ballard also speaks with stage favourite Jodie Prenger about her role in musical Tell Me on a Sunday, and we also hear poetry readings from Leicester community members.
With applications to Curve Young Company (CYC) now open, find out more about youth theatre at Curve with Associate Artist and Curve Young Dance Company leader Mel Knott, as well as former CYC member Mary-Jean Caldwell, who has gone on to become a professional performer.
In this episode, host Martin Ballard also talks about the upcoming tour of suspense-filled drama Dial M For Murder with the show's star Tom Chambers.
In this episode of Curve in Conversation, host Martin Ballard takes a look ahead at this autumn’s line-up of productions at Curve, including interviews with multi-award winning master of mind control Derren Brown, Leicester-based actor and star of hit musical Everybody's Talking About Jamie Sharan Phull, and winner of the 2019 Royal Theatrical Support Trust (RTST) Sir Peter Hall Director Award Anthony Almeida.
Curve is back and so is our podcast - Curve in Conversation!
In this episode, go behind-the-scenes with host Martin Ballard to find out how we welcomed audiences back to our theatre for the first time in 14 months and hear performances and interviews with artists including Aakash Odedra, Pawlet Brookes, Alex Parker and Katie Lam, and Emma Williams, as well as conversation with The Stage News Editor Matt Hemley and our Chief Executive Chris Stafford.