Nikky Smedley: From a Yellow Costume to Iconic Fame - The Uncomfortable Reality of Laa-Laa
All My Clothes Need Burning (formerly Television Times) · Steve Otis Gunn
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Show Notes
Nikky Smedley: From a Yellow Costume to Iconic Fame - The Uncomfortable Reality of Laa-Laa
🎙️Episode Overview
In this episode, Steve Otis Gunn sits down with Nikky Smedley, the beloved performer best known for playing Laa-Laa in Teletubbies, to uncover the fascinating story behind the yellow suit — and so much more. A dancer, writer, director, and education advocate, Nikky shares unforgettable moments from her eclectic career, including:
- Teletubbies Secrets: What it was really like inside the iconic Laa-Laa costume, and the challenges of wearing it.
- Children’s TV Legacy: The unexpected global reach and controversy around Teletubbies.
- The Art of Non-Verbal Performance: How she made Laa-Laa come to life without speaking.
- Life After Teletubbies: Her transition from performer to educator and creative consultant.
- Handling Fame with a Hidden Face: What it’s like being world-famous without being recognized.
This episode will appeal to lovers of children's TV nostalgia, creative performers, and anyone curious about the story behind one of pop culture’s most unexpected icons
🩰 About Nikky Smedley
Nikky Smedley is a British performer, creative director, choreographer, and writer who shot to global fame as Laa-Laa in Teletubbies. Beyond her time on children's TV, she has had a rich career in education and storytelling, working with major institutions and artists to bring performance, creativity, and joy to classrooms, theatres, and screens.
🔗 Connect with Nikky Smedley
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This podcast is now called All My Clothes Need Burning. We’ve leaned into the chaos.
Host: Steve Otis Gunn
Guest: Nikky Smedley – Performer & Educator
Duration: 47 minutes
Release Date: Sept 18, 2024
Season: 3, Episode 1
All music written and performed in this podcast by Steve Otis Gunn
Please buy my book 'You Shot My Dog and I Love You', available in all good bookshops and online
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