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Welcome back to The Theatre Mum. On episode 17, we're joined by creative catalyst and first-time playwright, Suzanne Pearson. After heading back into education to study Performance Making at Central School of Speech and Drama and now embarking on an MA in Creative Practice, Suzanne is now creating The Babushka Project. Starting as an autobiographical play that's about to have its first rehearsed reading, the project is growing into something bigger; a theatre-led TIE initiative exploring the lifelong impact of childhood bullying, the stories adults still carry and the ways schools and communities can listen differently. We chat about being a mature student, readjusting to a late neurodiversity diagnosis, writing processes and producing a rehearsed reading, plans for interactive workshops for teachers and school staff, Edinburgh Fringe goals, and somehow get on to mosquitoes... It's jam-packed with honesty, facts and frivolity - not necessarily in that order.  Content warning: Moderate swearing Follow The Theatre Mum on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetheatremum/ Follow Suzanne Pearson on: Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kindnessinmotion/ Follow Kindness in Motion and The Babushka Project here: Website: https://www.kindnessinmotion.co.uk Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebabushkaprojectuk

Welcome back to The Theatre Mum. On episode 16, along with the Welsh gales billowing through the microphones, we're joined by creative writer and entertainment lover, Rhys Payne, founder of theatre review website, Rhys Reviews. We delve into the ins and outs of being a theatre reviewer, the perfect job for anyone who just loves being around creative work and people. There's loads of helpful tips and advice on how to approach reviewing artist's work, the mindset behind reviews, and how to get started yourself, plus there's talk of the one and only Baftas, Edinburgh Fringe, and an unexpected burlesque performance... It's jam-packed with honesty, facts and frivolity - not necessarily in that order.  Content warning: Minimal swearing Follow The Theatre Mum on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetheatremum/ Follow Rhys Reviews on: Website: https://rhysreviews.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rhys.reviews/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@rhysreviews

Welcome back to The Theatre Mum. On episode 15, we're joined by creative connoisseur, Tom Hazelden, who's been busy the last few years creating his own work and bringing others to life. With a wealth of experience in fringe theatre, we delve into the bonkers brain of Tom to find out everything you didn't know you needed about taking work to Fringe venues, what life was like studying Acting at a lesser known drama school in London, and just how much taking part in workshops and continuing your learning can take you places you weren't expecting. With tips and advice on handling perfectionism, showing us how un-scary improv is, and prioritising your mental health, this is an episode you don't want to miss. It's jam-packed with honesty, facts and frivolity - not necessarily in that order.  Content warning: Swearing aplenty Follow The Theatre Mum on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetheatremum/ Follow Tom Hazelden on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tossyfitchetts/ Follow My Last Two Brain Cells here: https://www.instagram.com/mylasttwobraincellls/ Check out What's the Game Improv here: https://www.instagram.com/whatsthegameimprov/

Welcome back to The Theatre Mum! In this week's episode, Holly's going solo, answering some of your burning questions about working in the creative industry as a performer, writer and voiceover. We cover thoughts on drama school, favourite creative jobs to do and discover just how many side jobs one person can have... If you work in the creative industry and have a job you think others might be interested in hearing about, get in touch! And if you have a moment to leave us a review, please do. Follow The Theatre Mum on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetheatremum?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

Welcome back to The Theatre Mum. On episode 13, we're joined by Drag minor royalty, Aiden Strickland, an entertainer who creates beautifully bonkers art in the drag scene. Working in tech, front of house and as a performer, Aiden has been gracing the queer cabaret nightlife in London for many years, well known for creating larger than life characters that will have you laughing, crying...and questioning his choices. We chat all about finding work as a drag queen, drag king or drag thing, how long it really takes to create a finished product, as well as touching on festival work, fundraising and drama schools, the good and the bad. Whether you're thinking of exploring your art or just wondering how someone can make drag a career path that you never saw coming, this episode is for you.  It's jam-packed with honesty, facts and frivolity - not necessarily in that order.  Content warning: Swearing aplenty Follow The Theatre Mum on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetheatremum/ Follow Aiden Strickland on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aidenstrickland/ Find out about and buy your tickets to the annual Draggies here: https://www.instagram.com/thedraggies/

Welcome back to The Theatre Mum. On episode 12, we're joined by vocalist, George Stacey, an entertainer who can get the party started better than Pink. Having spent five years working around various holiday parks, followed by travelling the world on short-term cruise ship contracts as a lead vocalist in a party band, as well as in a boyband tribute act, we discuss what it's really like working in entertainment. We chat all about working schedules, hosting and presenting, and holiday park theatre companies, plus all about finding work as a vocalist, knowing your worth and finding that endless energy that Entertainment Teams seem to possess. If you've ever wondered if you might like to try a season at a holiday park or on board a ship, this episode is for you.  It's jam-packed with honesty, facts and frivolity - not necessarily in that order.  Content warning: Minimal swearing Follow The Theatre Mum on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetheatremum/ Follow George on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/georgestacey98/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@georgestacey98 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089542200099 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@georgestacey98

Welcome back to The Theatre Mum! On episode 11, it's the return of Jamie Ledwith, this time chatting about life as a musician. Jamie, who now works as a photographer, was a musician for over 30 years, working as a solo artist, in bands and in tribute acts. Filled with plenty of stories from his first-hand experience, we chat about what it's like performing in pubs, wedding venues and in tribute theatre shows, the skill and thrill of depping in bands, as well as how close he came to getting his band, Gunph!, signed by a record label. Find out the benefits and realities of working as a professional musician, and simply, how to do it yourself! It's packed with honest facts, figures and frivolity - not necessarily in that order. Content warning: Minimal swearing Follow The Theatre Mum on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/thetheatremum/ Follow Jamie on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oddshoe_photography Website: https://www.jamieledwith.com/ Music: Oddshoe Guy https://www.facebook.com/oddshoeguy https://open.spotify.com/artist/1RNKQmBVtlYGYqugf1ldVh?si=bsjCKN-AQOOMk2KTzSAVlQ

Welcome back to The Theatre Mum. We're in double figures! Those working in the creative industries are often juggling multiple jobs to keep their fire alight. On episode 10, we're joined by freelance creative Maya Waghorn, who has taken the leap into performing and creating full time, dabbling in a whole host of different jobs, including teaching in dance schools, choreographing music videos, Theatre in Education (TIE), and even producing their own shows with the Maya Musical Collective. They've been performing street dance with Funk of the Future, beat boxing with SK Shlomo and the ‘Goddexes of Beatbox’ Orchestra, and most recently performing in 'The Role of a Lifetime' at the Curve Leicester, a new play with Cathartic Party Theatre, to name a few. We discuss what it's like managing such a variety of jobs, how they found the work, mentally and literally, and the ins and outs of life as a freelance creative.  It's jam-packed with honesty, facts and frivolity - not necessarily in that order.  Content warning: Minimal swearing Follow The Theatre Mum on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetheatremum/ Follow Maya on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maya_waghorn/

Welcome back to The Theatre Mum! It's no secret that am dram sometimes receives a bad wrap - but does it deserve it? On episode 9, we're joined by fellow creative Hoffi Robinson, who has been enjoying the world of community theatre for most of her life. With a love of performing, directing and writing, we discuss how important amateur theatre is for performers and the community, especially when working full time in a completely different field. Want to know what it's like directing a production? Wonder just how creative you can get with what's on offer to you? Here you'll find insights into the differences and rewards of working with adult groups and youth theatre, tips on adapting work, including musicals, plays and your own writing, as well as some honest opinions on bringing your best to every situation. Even if it is voluntary. It's jam-packed with honesty, facts and frivolity - not necessarily in that order.  Content warning: Minimal swearing Follow The Theatre Mum on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetheatremum/ Follow The Community of Hungerford Theatre Company on https://www.hungerfordtheatre.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CoHTC Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hungerfordtheatrecompany/ Now go and follow your own community theatre company!

Welcome back to The Theatre Mum! On episode 8, we're joined by vocal powerhouse Kensey Armer, who works as a Vocal Coach and Musical Director, as well as performing herself with wedding and event band, Last Call. A musical theatre kid at heart, we discuss the ins and outs of being a musical director for shows, both with children and adults, what it's like being a freelance vocal coach, as well as the importance of being involved in amateur dramatics. It has tips on juggling jobs, how to adapt your skills and mindset to different work, plus insights into what it's like being a singer in an event band. Take a drink every time we mention Natalie Weiss... It's jam-packed with honest facts, frivolity and bankable quotes - not necessarily in that order. If you were ever inspired by Lizzie Maguire, this one's for you. Content warning: Minimal swearing Follow The Theatre Mum on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetheatremum/ Follow Kensey on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@queenkenofatown Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100054567108954 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kenseyarmermt/ or https://www.instagram.com/queenkennn/ Follow Last Call on https://lastcalleventband.co.uk/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lastcallfunctionband/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61572760370966

Welcome back to The Theatre Mum! On episode 7, we're joined by Jess Spath, who works as a freelance outreach producer and facilitator, as well as a children and families worker for her local community. Working behind the scenes to break barriers and bring performing opportunities and joy to young people and marginalised groups, Jess has freelanced for a number of theatres and production companies, including The Watermill Theatre, Newbury Corn Exchange, Streetwise Opera, South Hill Park and Peer Productions. We discuss the ins and outs of producing shows, leading workshops and project management, as well as the importance of making the arts accessible and creating safe spaces for people to grow. It's jam-packed with honest facts, figures and frivolity - not necessarily in that order.  Content warning: Minimal swearing Follow The Theatre Mum on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetheatremum/ Read Jess' short stories on E-Book here: The Photograph: https://www.amazon.ca/Photograph-Jess-Spath-ebook/dp/B00H1M8RSC The Carriage: https://www.amazon.in/Carriage-Jess-Spath-ebook/dp/B00LRI4AQO

Welcome back to The Theatre Mum! On episode 6, we're joined by Kate Izzard, co-founder of character event company, Jollypop Entertainment Ltd, providers of multi award-winning children's entertainment. Working as a princess performer or fairytale character is nothing to scoff at. From attending birthday parties to running large scale events across the South of England, we chat about what it's really like being a real life princess, what it takes to run your own business and the realities of how to keep a room full of children entertained. We also chat about Kate's theatre company, Looking Glass Theatre, and the ups and downs of putting on musicals as a new business. This episode is a little longer than usual because there was just so much to share with you. It's jam-packed with honest facts, figures and frivolity - not necessarily in that order.  Content warning: Minimal swearing Follow The Theatre Mum on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetheatremum/ Follow Jollypop Entertainment Ltd on: Web: https://www.jollypopentertainment.co.uk/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jollypopentertainment Insta: https://www.instagram.com/jollypopentertainmentltd Follow Looking Glass Theatre on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100092366322449 Insta: https://www.instagram.com/looking_glass.theatre/ Shrek is running at Arlington Arts from the 13th Feb to the 19th Feb. Book tickets for their latest production here: https://arlington-arts.com/musical-theatre/

Welcome back to The Theatre Mum! On episode 5, we're joined by Amelia Stephanides, co-founder of creative production company, Soup, and Norwich-based band, Amelia & The LoveFools. We chat about growing up in the circus, what it's like writing and performing your own music, and ask the question, what exactly is Soup? From running live events to video production, charity fundraisers to creating a new sitcom, The Bowl, we look into finding funding for projects, film festivals and how to get your work out there. This episode is jam-packed with stories for the creative hearts, an hour of honest facts, figures and frivolity - not necessarily in that order. And the occasional cat. Content warning: Minimal swearing Follow The Theatre Mum on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetheatremum/ Follow Amelia's work on: Amelia & The LoveFools: https://www.instagram.com/amelialovefools Listen on Spotify: http://bit.ly/3Z4rRDi Soup: https://www.instagram.com/soup_promo Foolhardy Circus: https://www.instagram.com/foolhardy_circus

Welcome back to The Theatre Mum! On episode 4, we're joined by Helen Saxton, creator of murder mystery event company, Dead Herring. We chat about the ins and outs of working as a performer in murder mysteries, what it's like creating, running and organising an events company, as well as delving into Helen's exploration into being an author. With a play taken to Edinburgh Fringe, a published true-crime novel and another on the way, this episode is filled with stories aplenty - real and fictional - favourite poisons and lots of laughter. It's an hour and a half packed with honest facts, figures and frivolity - not necessarily in that order. Content warning: Minimal swearing Follow The Theatre Mum on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetheatremum/ Follow Dead Herring on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/DeadHerringUK/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DeadHerringUK/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/helen-saxton-60a809113/ Website: https://deadherring.co.uk/

Welcome back to The Theatre Mum! On episode 3, we're joined by Jamie Ledwith, Holly's somewhat creative husband. Jamie, who now works as a photographer, has dabbled in so many different areas of the industry over the years, it's impossible to fit it all in one podcast. So in this episode, we focus on life as a supporting artist, aka a film and TV extra. Filled with plenty of stories from our first-hand experience, we chat about the (un)glamorous day-to-day life of being an extra, the benefits and realities of working on a professional film set, and simply, how to do it yourself! It's an hour packed with honest facts, figures and frivolity - not necessarily in that order. Content warning: Minimal swearing Follow The Theatre Mum on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/thetheatremum/ Follow Jamie on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oddshoe_photography Website: https://www.jamieledwith.com/