In The Frame: Theatre Interviews from West End Frame

This week's guest is Simon Gordon who most recently starred as JD in Heathers! Simon originally went to Law School before entering ITV's Superstar - Andrew Lloyd Webber's reality TV show, casting an actor to play Jesus in Jesus Christ Superstar - where he made it to the final thirty boys. Simon's theatre credits include: Christian in Moulin Rouge (Secret Cinema), alternate Strat in Bat Out Of Hell (London Coliseum, International Tour & Dominion Theatre), Robbie in Twist and Turn (The Other Palace) and cover Gene in Girl From The North Country (Gielgud Theatre). Most recently, Simon played JD in the original UK tour of Heathers, before reprising his performance in the London production at The Other Palace. During his London run, Simon played JD for the musical's film which will premiere on the Roku Channel in the US in September. In this episode, Simon discusses how he found his way from Law School to theatre, the Heathers fandom and *that* story about how rehearsing for his Beautiful audition led to armed police entering his house (and lots more). Follow Simon on Instagram: @simongordon Hosted by Andrew Tomlins. @AndrewTomlins32 Thanks for listening! Email: [email protected] Visit westendframe.co.uk for more info about our podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Carly is currently reprising her Olivier nominated performance as Erma in Kathleen Marshall's production of Anything Goes at the Barbican Theatre. Since previously joining us on Series 2 Episode 6 of In The Frame, Carly hasn't stopped! She was cast as Jane Seymour in the UK tour of Six, but sadly never made her debut due to a lockdown. Her recent credits include Shug Avery in The Color Purple (Leicester Curve - Digital), June in Gypsy in Concert (Alexandra Palace Theatre) and Cassie in A Chorus Line (Leicester Curve). Carly received huge acclaim for her performance as Erma in Anything Goes, winning a WhatsOnStage Award and receiving an Olivier Award nomination. Carly's extensive credits also include: Anita in West Side Story (Leicester Curve), Helene in Sweet Charity (Nottingham Playhouse), Fate in Hadestown (National Theatre), Henri in The View Upstairs (Soho Theatre) and Charlaine in Ain’t Misbehavin’ (Southwark Playhouse & Mercury Colchester). Carly’s West End credits include Rock of Ages, Dirty Dancing, Chicago, Memphis and Dreamgirls where she understudied and regularly played the role of Lorelle. She has also appeared in Hair, High School Musical, Dance Til Dawn and The Lorax.Anything Goes completes its run at the Barbican Theatre on 3rd September. Visit www.anythinggoesmusical.co.uk for info and tickets. Follow Carly on Instagram: @carlymdyerHosted by Andrew Tomlins. @AndrewTomlins32 Thanks for listening! Email: [email protected] Visit westendframe.co.uk for more info about our podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Zoe Birkett is currently playing Arabia and understudying Satine in the West End production of Moulin Rouge at the Piccadilly Theatre. Since finishing as a runner-up on the original season of Pop Idol, Zoe has gone on to have an incredible career in theatre. Zoe made her West End debut as a Diva in the original cast of Priscilla Queen of the Desert, with some of her other credits including: Myth! The Musical (The Other Palace), What A Feeling (Manchester Opera House & London Palladium), Thriller Live (Lyric & International Tour), Respect La Diva (Garrick), Hair (Munich & Piccadilly), Tommy (Prince Edward) and Rent (Greenwich Theatre). Zoe was nominated for West End Frame's Understudy of the Year Award for alternating the role of Rachel Marron in the UK tour of The Bodyguard and went on to take over the role for a limited time. Most recently she starred as Justice in the UK tour of Rock Of Ages. Follow Zoe on Instagram: @zoebirkett Hosted by Andrew Tomlins. @AndrewTomlins32 Thanks for listening! Email: [email protected] Visit westendframe.co.uk for more info about our podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Having co-hosted our second ever podcast back in 2019, 251 episodes later Jay Perry is back and In The Frame! Jay recently completed a run in the West End production of Hamilton at the Victoria Palace Theatre. He joined the show as a standby before taking over as Aaron Burr for a six month run. Jay made his West End debut as a child in Whistle Down The Wind (Aldwych) before joining pop group S Club Juniors. He then returned to theatre as an adult, with his early credits including Gilbert in Hairspray (Gordon Craig Theatre), Rufus & cover Curtis in Save The Last Dance For Me (UK Tour) and a Drifter in Beautiful: The Carole King Musical (Aldwych Theatre). Jay joined the West End production of Motown The Musical at the Shaftesbury Theatre in 2017 as a cover for Stevie Wonder and Marvin Gaye. He ended up becoming an emergency cover for Berry Gordy and then, in 2018, took over from Cedric Neal and played Berry Gordy for the final year of Motown's run, marking his West End leading man debut. After completing his run in Motown, Jay joined the Watermill Theatre's revival of Kiss Me Kate starring as Bill Calhoun. During the pandemic he was a standby in Songs For A New World at the London Palladium. On screen, Jay recently played Gabriel Chase in Doctors (BBC). Elsewhere, Jay works closely with the charity Mermaids who support gender-diverse kids, young people and their families. In this episode, Jay discusses leaving the Hamilton bubble, proving himself in the theatre industry and speaking out about what he stands for... plus lots more! Follow Jay on Instagram: @MrJayPerry Hosted by Andrew Tomlins. @AndrewTomlins32 Thanks for listening! Email: [email protected] Visit westendframe.co.uk for more info about our podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Having recently completed her run as Elle Woods in Lucy Moss' revival of Legally Blonde at the Regent's Park Open Air Theatre, Courtney Bowman is about to star as Lauren in Kinky Boots In Concert at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane. Returning to the West End for the first time since 2019, Kinky Boots In Concert also stars Cedric Neal as Lola and Joel Harper-Jackson as Charlie with the London Musical Theatre Orchestra. Courtney won the tenth annual Stephen Sondheim Society Student Performer of the Year competition in 2016. Her theatre credits include The Wind in the Willows (UK Tour), Martha in Blondel (Union Theatre) and Fatimah/cover Pritti in Everybody's Talking About Jamie (Apollo Theatre). She starred as Anne Boleyn in the West End production of Six, taking the show from the Arts Theatre to the Lyric Theatre before opening the show at its current home, the Vaudeville Theatre. Kinky Boots In Concert is staged at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane on 8th and 9th August 2022. Visit www.lwtheatres.co.uk for info and tickets. Hosted by Andrew Tomlins. @AndrewTomlins32 Thanks for listening! Email: [email protected] Visit westendframe.co.uk for more info about our podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From Medical School to Drama School to Harvard Law School!This week's guest is Michael Ahomka-Lindsay who recently starred as Emmett in the sell-out London revival of Legally Blonde directed by Lucy Moss at the Regent's Park Open Air Theatre.After leaving medical school, Michael pursued a career in performing and secured the Andrew Lloyd Webber Foundation scholarship to train at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland. After graduating, Michael starred as Benny in Luke Sheppard's production of Rent at the Hope Mill Theatre. He then went on tour as Maugrim in The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe before landing the role of Emmett in Legally Blonde. Michael can soon be seen in new musical To The Streets! in Birmingham which runs 19th - 28th August. In this episode, Michael discusses leaving medical school behind for theatre, life as an actor-musician, all things Legally Blonde and lots more! Follow Michael on Instagram: @michaelahomka_Hosted by Andrew Tomlins. @AndrewTomlins32 Thanks for listening! Email: [email protected] Visit westendframe.co.uk for more info about our podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Joanna is currently reprising her performance as Bloody Mary in South Pacific. Following an acclaimed run at Chichester Festival Theatre, Daniel Evans' revival of South Pacific is back for a run at Sadler's Wells ahead of a UK and Ireland tour. Joanna made her West End debut as Kim in Miss Saigon at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane and went on to play the role in the original Australian production, the original UK and Ireland tour and 10th anniversary West End performance. Her other West End roles have included Mary Magdalene in Jesus Christ Superstar, both Éponine and Fantine in Les Misérables, Christmas Eve in Avenue Q and Sheila Franklin in Hair. Joanna is renowned for starring as Grizabella in Cats all over the world. In Manila she has played Mimi in Rent, Francesca Johnson in The Bridges of Madison County, Maria in West Side Story and Maria Von Trapp in The Sound of Music as well as Nellie in a concert production of South Pacific. Most recently, Joanna starred as Jenna in the international premiere of Waitress in Manila. South Pacific runs at Sadler's Wells 27th July – 28th August 2022 before touring the UK and Ireland from 13th September. Visit www.southpacificshow.com for info, tour dates and tickets. Hosted by Andrew Tomlins. @AndrewTomlins32 Thanks for listening! Email: [email protected] Visit westendframe.co.uk for more info about our podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Fresh from her run in And Juliet, Kirstie Skivington is starring as Emmeline Pankhurst in Fantastically Great Women Who Changed The World.Following its UK tour, the production is currently concluding a run at the Theatre Royal Stratford East before visiting Canterbury and then playing the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. The musical is based on the award-winning picture book by suffragette descendant Kate Pankhurst and features stories of some of history’s strongest mothers, sisters and daughters who changed the world. Kirstie's West End credits include swing in Ghost The Musical (Piccadilly), Viva Forever (Piccadilly), I Can’t Sing (London Palladium) and 1st cover Jules in Bend It Like Beckham (Phoenix). She played Vicky in the world premiere of Everybody’s Talking about Jamie in Sheffield before becoming the show’s resident director and choreographer whilst understudying Miss Hedge and Ray when it transferred to the West End.Some of Kirstie's other credits include Side Show (Southwark Playhouse), Jesus Christ Superstar (Regent's Park Open Air Theatre), Mother Goose (Hackney Empire) and Sylvia (Workshop, Old Vic).Most recently, Kirstie was part of the original cast of And Juliet, understudying and regularly playing Anne Hathaway to huge acclaim at the Shaftesbury Theatre.In this episode, Kirstie discusses her long association with new British musicals, saying no to Max Martin and all things Fantastically Great Women.Fantastically Great Women Who Changed The World runs at the Theatre Royal Stratford East until Sunday 17th July before playing The Marlowe Theatre in Canterbury (26th - 30th July) and the Edinburgh Fringe Festival (4th - 29th August). Hosted by Andrew Tomlins. @AndrewTomlins32 Thanks for listening! Email: [email protected] Visit westendframe.co.uk for more info about our podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Fresh from her run in Cinderella, Georgina is starring in the brand new British musical Millennials at The Other Palace Studio. Written and composed by Elliot Clay, Millennials turns up the microphone on the lives, the losses and the frustrations of young people in the modern world. After completing her training at Arts Ed, Georgina made her stage debut starring as Alice in Dick Whittington at the National Theatre. She then joined the original cast of Andrew Lloyd Webber's Cinderella at the Gillian Lynne Theatre as alternate Cinderella which saw her play the role two performances each week. Georgina received a Black British Theatre Award nomination in 2021 for Best Recent Graduate. Elsewhere, her workshop credits include Mandela (Young Vic) and The Enormous Crocodile (Roald Dahl Story Company). Millennials runs at The Other Palace Studio until 7th August 2022. Visit www.theotherpalace.co.uk for info and tickets. Hosted by Andrew Tomlins. @AndrewTomlins32 Thanks for listening! Email: [email protected] Visit westendframe.co.uk for more info about our podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We're back for a very special episode with Broadway's Jessica Vosk ahead of her upcoming London concert!In her 20s, Jessica was an associate director for a boutique investor relations firm in New York City, where she consulted major companies on Wall Street. She then left that career behind, to start a brand-new career on Broadway!Jessica made her Broadway debut as a swing in the original cast of The Bridges of Madison Country by Jason Robert Brown. She went on to appear in the Broadway productions of Finding Neverland and Fiddler on the Roof.in 2016, Jessica joined the US National Tour of Wicked as Elphaba. After receiving tremendous acclaim for her performance, Jessica transferred to Wicked on Broadway where she played Elphaba for the musical's 15th anniversary. Jessica originated the roles of Aunt Val and Kate Bush in the world premiere of Becoming Nancy in Atlanta and starred as The Narrator in the 50th Anniversary Concert of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat at Lincoln Center. Jessica is currently starring in Get Happy: A Judy Garland Centennial Celebration ahead of joining the off-Broadway company of The Bedwetter for the final week of the musical's run. Later this summer she will reprise her performance as The Narrator in Joseph at the Muny.Later this month Jessica will play Cadogan Hall in London on Sunday 17th July. The show was originally scheduled to take place earlier this year, but was postponed due to illness. Visit www.cadoganhall.com for info and tickets. In this episode Jessica discusses why she insists on speaking out about what she stands for, how she got in trouble for riffing in Wicked and her dream of doing a musical in London! Hosted by Andrew Tomlins. @AndrewTomlins32 Thanks for listening! Email: [email protected] Visit westendframe.co.uk for more info about our podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

To finish off this series, we're joined by Lea Salonga to discuss her return to the UK! Lea left the Philippines as a teenager when she was cast as Kim in Miss Saigon. She originated the role in the West End and on Broadway to tremendous acclaim, winning Olivier and Tony Awards for her performance. Lea also has a long association with Les Misérables, having played both Eponine and Fantine in London and New York, including for the musical’s 10th and 25th anniversary concerts. Just a few of Lea's other theatre credits include: Eliza in My Fair Lady (Manila), The Witch in Into The Woods (Singapore), Grizabella in Cats (Manila), Kei Kimura in Allegiance (Broadway) and Helen in Fun Home (Manila). Most recently Lea played Erzulie in Once On This Island (Broadway), Grace Farrell in Annie (Hollywood Bowl) and Mrs Lovett in Sweeney Todd (Manila/Singapore). Lea has worked extensively in film and television, and famously provided vocals for the title role in Disney's Mulan I (1998) and Mulan II (2004) as well as for Princess Jasmine in Disney's Aladdin (1994), earning her the official title of a Disney Legend! Away from the stage, Lea is a judge on the Philippines’ version of The Voice and has sold 19 million albums worldwide, making her one of the best-selling Filipina artists of all time. Lea is about to return to the UK for her second UK concert tour, Dream Again. Lea opens in Leicester on 18th June before visiting Southampton, Cardiff, Birmingham, Manchester, Brighton, Canterbury and Glasgow. She is also performing a very special show at the Royal Albert Hall in London on 28th June. The tour coincides with the 30th anniversary of Lea recording A Whole New World for Aladdin. For full info and tour dates, visit www.cuffeandtaylor.com. In this special episode, Lea discusses her return to London, why Miss Saigon was more exhausting than her solo show and the pressure that comes with her role model status. Hosted by Andrew Tomlins. @AndrewTomlins32 Thanks for listening to this series of In The Frame, we'll be back soon for Series 7! Email: [email protected] Visit westendframe.co.uk for more info about our podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Scott Hunter is currently starring as Max in the West End production of The Play That Goes Wrong! Following The Cornley Drama Society as they attempt to put on a 1920s murder mystery (with little success), The Play That Goes Wrong premiered on the London Fringe in 2012 and has been taking the West End by storm since opening at the Duchess Theatre in 2014. This marks Scott's second Mischief production, as they previously played Mel in Magic Goes Wrong at the Apollo Theatre. Scott was named Best Newcomer in the Manchester Theatre Awards for their role as Stu in Yank The Musical, a role they played to huge acclaim at the Hope Mill Theatre and Charing Cross Theatre, before reprising their performance for the show's 10th Anniversary Concert in New York at 54 Below. Scott's other credits include playing Blaine Tuttle in Cruel Intentions at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and the recording of Something's Afoot The Musical. In this episode, Scott discusses finding their funny for The Play That Goes Wrong, their whirlwind journey with Yank as well as working in theatre as a nonbinary performer. The Play That Goes Wrong is booking at the Duchess Theatre until Sunday 2nd April 2023. Visit www.theplaythatgoeswrong.com for info and tickets. Hosted by Andrew Tomlins. @AndrewTomlins32 Thanks for listening! Email: [email protected] Visit westendframe.co.uk for more info about our podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we're joined by London's 15th anniversary Elphaba, Laura Pick! After training at Mountview, Laura understudied and played Maria in The Sound of Music at the Regent's Park Open Air Theatre. She went on to star in a tour of So This Is Christmas, completed a contract at sea with Belinda King Creative Productions and played Dr Osgood in Anyone Can Whistle at the Union Theatre.Laura first joined the West End production of Wicked at the Apollo Victoria Theatre as Standby Elphaba in Summer 2017. After standing by for Alice Fearn and Nikki Bentley, Laura took over the role full-time at the start of 2020 until theatres were shutdown at the start of the pandemic in March 2020. Laura returned to the role when Wicked reopened in September 2021, and played Elphaba for the production's 15th Anniversary performance. Laura played her final performance in Wicked in January 2022, and has been busy since with various concert work. Since leaving, Laura has returned to Wicked several times as an emergency cover Elphaba (we recorded this episode two days after her most recent return!). In this episode, Laura discusses her career pre-Wicked, her Elphaba journey and lots more!Follow Laura on Instagram to stay up-to-date with everything she's up to: @laurapick191 Hosted by Andrew Tomlins. @AndrewTomlins32 Thanks for listening! Email: [email protected] Visit westendframe.co.uk for more info about our podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we're crossing the pond to chat with A.J. Shively who is nominated for a Tony Award for his performance as Owen Duignan in Paradise Square on Broadway!A.J. has been with Paradise Square - which is taking Broadway by storm - from its original workshops. He was previously nominated for a Drama Desk Award for his portrayal of Billy Cane in the Broadway production of Bright Star, later reprising his performance for the musical's US tour. A.J. has worked extensively on screen; he was recently seen as Jerry McConnell on CBS’s Bull and as Chef André Soltner in HBO Max’s Julia. Paradise Square runs at the Barrymore Theatre in New York. Hosted by Andrew Tomlins. @AndrewTomlins32 Thanks for listening! Email: [email protected] Visit westendframe.co.uk for more info about our podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Vicki is back for a second episode of In The Frame! Vicki is currently starring as Regina in the touring production of Rock Of Ages. Vicki's early theatre credits include the West End productions of Sunny Afternoon, Beautiful: The Carole King Musical and Bat Out Of Hell. She joined the West End production of SIX at the start of 2019 as an alternate, taking over as Katherine Howard nine months later. She then returned to Beautiful, this time on tour, as the alternate Carole. Vicki returned to SIX last year, reprising her performance as Katherine Howard in the musical's tour. During the 2020 lockdown, Vicki focused on her songwriting and music. She has released five singles since, all of which have dominated the Country Charts, gaining four number 1’s and a number 2 as well as an EP that was number 1 in the Album Charts. You can find Vicki’s music on all major platforms and her new song FLY is released on 27th May 2022. Alongside her performing and music careers, Vicki is Artistic Director of Sharpe Academy. Rock Of Ages is booking through to May 2023. Visit www.www.rockofagesmusical.co.uk for info, tour dates and tickets. Hosted by Andrew Tomlins. @AndrewTomlins32 Thanks for listening! Email: [email protected] Visit westendframe.co.uk for more info about our podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Daniel Koek is currently starring as Robin in La Bohème at the King's Head Theatre ahead of appearing in the upcoming Australian production of The Phantom of the Opera. La Bohème returns to the King’s Head Theatre in a new version which relocates the story to contemporary London. Directed by Mark Ravenhill, it's described as a "contemporary queer reinvention" of Puccini’s classic opera.After completing his run in La Bohème, Daniel will play the Porter and Jeweller whilst understudying The Phantom in the Australian production of The Phantom of the Opera which will play in Sydney and Melbourne. Hailing from South Australia, Daniel studied classical voice at the Conservatorium in Adelaide before moving to London to complete his Masters in Musical Theatre at the Mountview Academy. Whilst in Europe Daniel also studied in Amsterdam and sung a season with Nationale Reis Opera of the Netherlands. He is renowned for starring as Jean Valjean in the West End production of Les Miserables (Sondheim Theatre). His other credits include: Lt Cable in the Lincoln Centre production of South Pacific (UK/Australian tours), Anatoly in Chess (UK Tour) and Tony in West Side Story (UK Tour) and Father Frank in Saturday Night Fever (International Tour). Daniel has recorded two studio albums and works as a performance and vocal coach. La Bohème runs at the King's Head Theatre until 28th May 2022. Visit www.kingsheadtheatre.com for info and tickets. Hosted by Andrew Tomlins. @AndrewTomlins32 Thanks for listening! Email: [email protected] Visit westendframe.co.uk for more info about our podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Danny Whitehead is starring in the UK revival of Passion by Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine at the Hope Mill Theatre. Danny starred as Raoul in the West End production of The Phantom of the Opera at Her Majesty’s Theatre, as part of the final company of the original production. His theatre credits also include: understudy Enjolras in Les Miserables (West End), understudy The Wizard in Wicked (UK Tour), Sweeney Todd (Welsh National Opera), South Pacific (Barbican / UK Tour), 1418 The Spectacular WW1 Arena Musical (Mechelen Arena, Belgium), Rags (West End Gala), Secret Garden (UK Tour) and Breaking The Code (English Theatre, Frankfurt).Passion runs at the Hope Mill Theatre until 5th June 2022. Visit www.hopemilltheatre.co.uk for info and tickets.Hosted by Andrew Tomlins. @AndrewTomlins32 Thanks for listening! Email: [email protected] Visit westendframe.co.uk for more info about our podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jocasta is about to star as Rizzo in the West End revival of Grease.Directed by Nikolai Foster and choreographed by Dame Arlene Phillips, Grease is returning to the Dominion Theatre where it previously ran in 1993. Jocasta recently originated the role of Lady Capulet in the West End production of & Juliet (Shaftesbury Theatre), whilst also understudying the roles of Nurse and Anne. In 2016 Jocasta was nominated for West End Frame's Understudy of the Year Award, for covering the roles of Camila, Daniela and Vanessa in the London production of In The Heights (King's Cross Theatre). Her theatre credits also include: Joanne in Rent (Hope Mill Theatre), Anita in West Side Story (Royal Exchange), Yvonne in Sunshine On Leith (West Yorkshire Playhouse) understudy Deena and Lorell in Dreamgirls (West End), Ghost The Musical (International Tour), Dynamite in Hairspray (UK Tour) and Chicago (Curve). Grease begins performances at the Dominion Theatre from 3rd May 2022. Visit www.greasemusical.co.uk for info and tickets.Hosted by Andrew Tomlins. @AndrewTomlins32 Thanks for listening! Email: [email protected] Visit westendframe.co.uk for more info about our podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For our 100th episode (!!) of In The Frame we chat to Simon Bailey about his incredible career on stage, and his current role as The Duke in Moulin Rouge. Simon's West End credits include: Heathers (Theatre Royal Haymarket & London workshop); Tommy DeVito in Jersey Boys (Piccadilly Theatre & UK Tour); Liam O'Deary in I Can’t Sing! (London Palladium); Pharaoh in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat (Gillian Lynne); understudy Galileo in We Will Rock You (Dominion); Enjolras in Les Miserables (Queen’s Theatre); Raoul in The Phantom of the Opera (Her Majesty’s); Passion (Donmar Warehouse) and Romeo & Juliet! The Musical (Piccadilly);. Just a few of Simon's other credits include: Whisper House (The Other Palace); Bat Boy (Southwark Playhouse); Marry Me a Little (St James Theatre); Striking 12 (Waterloo East Theatre); Parade (Southwark Playhouse), An Officer and a Gentleman workshop (Leicester Curve); Once Upon A Time at the Adelphi (Liverpool Playhouse); Naked Flame (England) and Rock Legends (South Africa).Simon is currently starring as The Duke in the original West End cast of Moulin Rouge at the Piccadilly Theatre. Follow Simon on Instagram: @SimonBailey1210Moulin Rouge is booking at the Piccadilly Theatre until Saturday 1st October 2022. Visit www.moulinrougemusical.co.uk for info and tickets. Hosted by Andrew Tomlins. @AndrewTomlins32 Thank you for supporting our first 100 episodes of In The Frame - there's lots more to come! Email: [email protected] Visit westendframe.co.uk for more info about our podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For our 99th episode, we are so excited to share this conversation with Tina's Chanel Haynes! Discovered by Quincy Jones while she was still a teenager, Chanel became a founding member of the gospel trio, Trinitee 5:7. As lead singer of the group, Chanel sold over 2.5 million albums worldwide and earned two Grammy nominations. The trio spent nearly two decades entertaining audiences around the world in arenas ranging from Madison Square Garden to Wembley Stadium. The group was managed by Matthew Knowles.Her first album went Platinum and spent 50 weeks on Billboard’s top R&B albums chart, while both of her first two albums debuted at #1 on the Billboard Gospel chart. Chanel made her theatre debut starring as Billie Holiday in Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar & Grill at the Zach Theatre in Austin, Texas. For her performance, she won Best Leading Actress in a Musical at the B. Iden Payne Awards.Chanel is making her West End debut as Tina Turner in Tina: The Tina Turner Musical at the Aldwych Theatre. Chanel had an incredible journey landing the role, which led to her relocating her entire family to London. In this special episode, recorded in Oxford Circus, Chanel discusses why she was drawn to playing Tina Turner onstage, the audition process and conquering one of the most demanding roles in the West End (plus lots more!). Tina is booking at the Aldwych Theatre until Sunday 18th December 2022. Visit www.tinathemusical.com for info and tickets.Hosted by Andrew Tomlins. @AndrewTomlins32 Thanks for listening! Email: [email protected] Visit westendframe.co.uk for more info about our podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Paige is starring as Luisa in the London revival of Zorro The Musical.Directed by Christian Durham, Zorro has has music by The Gipsy Kings and book and lyrics by Stephen Clark. The show originally ran in the West End in 2008. Paige made her theatrical debut as Rafeala/Alma in Elegies for Angels, Punks and Raging Queens at the Union Theatre.She went on to appear in the ensemble of Oklahoma! at Chichester Festival Theatre before joining the original West End production of Pretty Woman The Musical at the Piccadilly Theatre, understudying Vivian. Zorro runs at the Charing Cross Theatre until 28th May 2022. Visit www.charingcrosstheatre.co.uk/theatre/zorro for info and tickets.Hosted by Andrew Tomlins. @AndrewTomlins32 Thanks for listening! Email: [email protected] Visit westendframe.co.uk for more info about our podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Olivier nominee Cleve September is preparing to star as Ted Hinton in the original West End production of Bonnie and Clyde. Directed by Nick Winston, this marks Bonnie and Clyde's West End premiere, ten years after the Broadway production. The show has music by Frank Wildhorn, lyrics by Don Black and book by Ivan Menchell.Cleve was nominated for an Olivier Award for his performance as Philip Hamilton/John Laurens in the West End premiere of Hamilton (Victoria Palace).His theatre credits also include: Sonny & understudy Usnavi in In The Heights (King's Cross Theatre), Dick Whittington (National Theatre), Hair (Norwich Theatre), Jesus Christ Superstar (Regent's Park Open Air Theatre), Tommy Keeler in Annie Get Your Gun (Crucible Theatre), Elaine Paige's 50th Anniversary Farewell Tour (Royal Albert Hall) and The Last Days of Troy (The Globe Theatre).Bonnie and Clyde opens at the Arts Theatre on 9th April 2022. Visit www.bonnieandclydemusical.com for info and tickets.Hosted by Andrew Tomlins. @AndrewTomlins32 Thanks for listening! Email: [email protected] Visit westendframe.co.uk for more info about our podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Cherelle recently recreated the role of Dorothy in the Hope Mill Theatre's major UK revival of The Wiz.As a child, Cherelle attended the Sylvia Young Theatre School and made her West End debut as Young Nala in The Lion King at the Lyceum Theatre. After venturing into the music world, Cherelle returned to theatre as an adult to star as Mary Wilson in the original West End cast of Motown The Musical. Cherelle was with the show for the entirety of its three year run. In addition to playing Mary, Cherelle covered the role of Diana Ross and played the role on numerous occasions. Alongside her theatre work, Cherelle works in fashion and regularly gigs.Cherelle won rave reviews for her performance as Dorothy in The Wiz. Directed by Matthew Xia, The Wiz is a joyous retelling of L. Frank Baum’s classic children’s novel ‘The Wonderful Wizard of Oz’ reflecting contemporary African-American culture.You can follow Cherelle on Instagram: @cherellewilliamsxoHosted by Andrew Tomlins. @AndrewTomlins32 Thanks for listening! Email: [email protected] Visit westendframe.co.uk for more info about our podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Blair is currently starring as Bob Gaudio in the UK & Ireland tour of Jersey Boys, having previously played the role at sea for Norwegian Cruise Lines. Blair's theatre credits include: Erik in The Sorcerer’s Apprentice (London workshop), Shane in Game Night (Drayton Arms Theatre), The Beast in Beauty & the Beast (Corn Exchange Newbury), Prince Charming in Cinderella (Bristol Hippodrome) and Mike Singer in Zanna, Don’t! (The Edinburgh Festival Fringe). The Jersey Boys tour is currently booking until 3rd December 2022. Visit www.jerseyboysmusical.co.uk for tour dates, info and tickets. Hosted by Andrew Tomlins. @AndrewTomlins32 Thanks for listening! Email: [email protected] Visit westendframe.co.uk for more info about our podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jordan Luke Gage is currently one of the busiest performers in theatreland. He is about to complete his run in And Juliet ahead of starring in the West End premiere of Bonnie and Clyde. Having trained at Mountview, Jordan made his theatre debut as Marilyn in Taboo (Brixton Clubhouse). He joined the West End production of Bat Out Of Hell (Dominion Theatre) as an alternate for Strat, and later took over the role full-time from Andrew Polec to huge acclaim. Jordan originated the role of Romeo in And Juliet in Manchester, and continued with the show when it transferred to the West End (Shaftesbury Theatre). Before the show resumed its run after lockdown, Jordan starred as JD in the West End production of Heathers (Theatre Royal Haymarket). He will soon star as Clyde in Bonnie and Clyde (Arts Theatre). Follow Jordan on social media: @jordanlukegage Jordan completes his run in And Juliet on Saturday 26th March, with performances of Bonnie and Clyde beginning on Saturday 9th April. Hosted by Andrew Tomlins. @AndrewTomlins32 Thanks for listening! Email: [email protected] westendframe.co.uk for more info about our podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Joseph Peacock is originating the role of Donny Osmond in the brand new musical, The Osmonds. With a story by Jay Osmond, The Osmonds tells the true story of the five brothers from Utah who were pushed into the spotlight as children and went on to create smash hits, decade after decade. The musical premiered at Leicester Curve ahead of a UK and Ireland tour. Having trained at Emil Dale Academy, Joseph's theatre credits include Young Gideon in The Last Ship (US Tour), understudy Tink in Bat Out Of Hell (London Coliseum & Dominion Theatre), Benjamin in Joseph And The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat (UK Tour) and Pete in Burnt Part Boys (The Park Theatre). The Osmonds tour is booking through to 3rd December 2022. Visit www.theosmondsmusical.co.uk for info and tickets. Hosted by Andrew Tomlins. @AndrewTomlins32 Thanks for listening! Email: [email protected] westendframe.co.uk for more info about our podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We're kicking off the week with an extra helping of In The Frame with Richard Winsor who is starring as Tony in the West End production of Saturday Night Fever.Richard previously played this role on tour across the UK and internationally ahead of bringing the show to the Peacock Theatre in London. Featuring the Bee Gees’ greatest hits, Saturday Night Fever tells the story of Tony Manero and his reckless road to dancing success. The role was originated by John Travolta in the 1977 film. Richard started his career as a principal dancer for Matthew Bourne, starring in his productions of Spitfire, The Nutcracker, Play Without Words, Edward Scissorhands, The Car Man, Dorian Gray and Swan Lake. These shows have taken Richard around the world and to some of the most prestigious theatres. Richard then ventured in television, playing Father Francis in Hollyoaks and Caleb in BBC1's Casualty for over 100 episodes. His credits also include Swan Lake 3D (Universal), Streetdance 3D (BBC), Frankenstein (Royal & Derngate), The Anastasia File (Theatre Royal Windsor) and most recently he reunited with Matthew Bourne for The Midnight Bell on tour.Saturday Night Fever runs at the Peacock Theatre until 26th March 2022. Visit www.sadlerswells.com for info and tickets. Hosted by Andrew Tomlins. @AndrewTomlins32Thanks for listening! Email: [email protected] westendframe.co.uk for more info about our podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On West End Frame's 10th Birthday, Matt Hemley from The Stage hosts a special episode of In The Frame, turning the tables and interviewing Andrew (Founding Editor) about the past ten years of West End Frame.West End Frame launched as a theatre blog in February 2012 and went on to become the UK's top independent theatre website, renowned for breaking theatre news, reviewing major theatrical openings and interviewing the West End's biggest stars. West End Frame closed in October 2016, but returned in July 2019 with two stagey podcasts, The West End Frame Show and In The Frame. Hosted by Matt Hemley@MattHemley Thanks for listening! Email: [email protected] westendframe.co.uk for more info about our podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we're chatting to Sharlene Hector about transitioning into a new career in theatre, following many successful years in the music world. Last year Sharlene made her theatrical debut as Lorraine in Hairspray at the London Coliseum, also covering and playing Motormouth Maybelle. She is now touring the UK and Ireland as the alternate Effie White in Dreamgirls to huge acclaim. In the music world, Sharlene was Lead Vocalist in Basement Jaxx and Blonde. She has sung backing for the likes of Alicia Keys, Muse, Emeli Sandé, Sam Sparro, Primal Scream, Rebecca Ferguson, Lalah Hathaway, Tinie Tempah, Josh Groban and Michael Bublé.Sharlene has performed at Glastonbury, V Festival, Bestival and Wireless with her television appearances including Alan Carr’s Epic Game Show – Name That Tune (ITV), X Factor (ITV), Top of the Pops (BBC), Sounds Like Friday Night (BBC) and Later with Jools Holland (BBC).Follow Sharlene on Instagram: @supasharTo find out more about the Dreamgirls tour, visit www.dreamgirlsthemusical.co.ukHosted by Andrew Tomlins. @AndrewTomlins32Thanks for listening! Email: [email protected] westendframe.co.uk for more info about our podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With her CV including roles such as Elphaba, Glinda, Eva Peron, Miss Adelaide & Lucy Harris, Louise Dearman is a West End icon. Louise is currently preparing to star in Mimma: A New Musical of War & Friendship which is being staged at Cadogan Hall for one-night-only on Monday 28th February. Louise made her theatrical debut as The Narrator in Joseph (UK Tour). Just a few of her other credits include Jan in Grease (West End), Lucy Harris in Jekyll & Hyde (UK Tour), Sarah Brown in Guys and Dolls (UK Tour), Eva Peron in Evita (UK Tour), Grizabella in Cats (International), The Woman in Tell Me On A Sunday (RCCL), Mrs D in Water Babies (Curve), Miss Adelaide in Guys and Dolls (UK Tour) and Daisy in Side Show (Southwark Playhouse).Louise has starred as both Elphaba and Glinda in the West End production of Wicked (Apollo Victoria), making her the only actor to have starred as both roles in the musical's history. Mimma is staged at Cadogan Hall on Monday 28th February. Visit www.cadoganhall.com for info and tickets.Hosted by Andrew Tomlins. @AndrewTomlins32Thanks for listening! Email: [email protected] westendframe.co.uk for more info about our podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we're joined by West End LEGEND, Mazz Murray. Mazz is currently starring as Donna in the West End production of Mamma Mia!, having previously played Tanya in the show. Mazz famously starred as Killer Queen in We Will Rock You at the Dominion Theatre for seven triumphant years. She made her theatre debut playing Patsy Cline in The Roy Orbison Story. Other credits include: Mama Morton in the recent production of Chicago (Phoenix Theatre) as well as A Girl Called Dusty, Rent, Smokey Joe’s Café, Fame, Only the Lonely, Boogie Nights and Pippin. Most recently Mazz played Norma Desmond in a concert staging of Andrew Lloyd Webber and Don Black’s musical Sunset Boulevard at the Alexandra Palace Theatre. After receiving tremendous acclaim, it was announced that Mazz would once again play the role for a second staging at the Royal Albert Hall. Mazz's portrayal of Norma was named West End Frame's top performance of 2021. You can see Mazz in Mamma Mia! at the Novello Theatre. Visit www.mamma-mia.com for info and tickets.Hosted by Andrew Tomlins. @AndrewTomlins32Thanks for listening! Email: [email protected] westendframe.co.uk for more info about our podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We're back for a brand new season with London's current Veronica, Ailsa Davidson! Having trained at Guildford School of Acting, Ailsa's theatre credits include playing Sarah Our House (Union Theatre), Miss Lynch and understudy Rizzo/Jan in Grease (UK & International Tour) and the award winning production of Lipsync (Edinburgh Fringe). Ailsa has been receiving rave reviews for her performance as Veronica in Heathers at the newly reopened Other Palace Theatre. Heathers is booking at the Other Palace until Sunday 1st May 2022. Visit www.theotherpalace.co.uk for info and tickets. Hosted by Andrew Tomlins. @AndrewTomlins32Thanks for listening! Email: [email protected] westendframe.co.uk for more info about our podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For the final episode of this series, we’re chatting to the amazing Cameron Blakely! Cameron originated the role of Gomez when The Addams Family made its UK premiere in 2017. He is currently reprising his performance for the musical's latest UK tour.Directed by Matthew White, with choreography by Alistair David, The Addams Family has book by Marshall Brickman and Rick Elice with music and lyrics by Andrew Lippa. Cameron is well known for his long association with Les Miserables. He has played Thenardier countless times in the West End and on tour. He recently played Bamatabois/Babet in the concert version of the show at the Sondheim Theatre, having played the role for the 25th Anniversary Concert at the O2 Arena.Just a few of Cameron's other credits include: Dennis Dupree in Rock of Ages (UK Tour), W T Steadi in Calon Lan (Swansea Grand Theatre), Lex Hogan in Eugenius (The Other Palace), Narrator/Mysterious Man in Into the Woods (Royal Exchange Theatre), Fagin in Oliver! (Watermill Theatre), Gatch/Twimble in How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying (Concert), Lazar Wolf in Fiddler on the Roof (Grange Park Opera), Mr Lucas/Mr Scruton in The Secret Diary of Adrian Mole (Leicester Curve) and Sam in Mamma Mia! (international tour), Cameron has worked extensively at the Regent's Park Open Air Theatre, where his roles have included: Charley in Where’s Charley?, Badger in The Wind in the Willows, Puck in A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Rosencrantz in Hamlet, Peter in Romeo and Juliet and Nathaniel in The Taming of the Shrew.The Addams Family resumes its UK tour on 11th January in Milton Keynes and is booking through to June 2022. Visit www.theaddamsfamily.co.uk for info and tour dates.Hosted by Andrew Tomlins. @Andrew_Tomlins Thanks for listening! We’re taking a little break in January, but will be back next year with lots more incredible guests. Email: [email protected] westendframe.co.uk for more info about our podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today we're chatting to David Cumming, Natasha Hodgson and Zoe Roberts from SpitLip Theatre about their hit show, Operation Mincemeat The Musical.Following this year's sold out and acclaimed run, Operation Mincemeat returns to the Southwark Playhouse in January.Operation Mincemeat won The Stage Debut award for Best Composer/Lyricist, the Off-West End award for Best Company Ensemble and was listed in the Observer's Top 10 shows of the year. Operation Mincemeat runs at the Southwark Playhouse 14th January - 19th February 2022. Visit www.southwarkplayhouse.co.uk for info and tickets.Hosted by Andrew Tomlins. @Andrew_Tomlins Thanks for listening! Email: [email protected] westendframe.co.uk for more info about our podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ainsley Hall Ricketts is starring as Paul in Nikolai Foster's revival of A Chorus Line at Leicester Curve. A Chorus Line marks Ainsley's return to musical theatre, having spent the past few years working as a dancer and choreographer. His theatre credits include: Motown The Musical (West End), understudy Joice in Barnum (Menier Chocolate Factory), Mr T in The Wedding Singer (UK Tour), Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (West End) and Bugsy Malone (Lyric Hammersmith). Ainsley was a finalist on The Greatest Dancer for ITV and will soon appear in the Matilda film for Netflix. A Chorus Line runs at Leicester Curve until Friday 31st December 2021. Visit www.curveonline.co.uk for info and tickets. Hosted by Andrew Tomlins. @Andrew_Tomlins Thanks for listening! Email: [email protected] westendframe.co.uk for more info about our podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

West End legend Anna-Jane Casey is currently starring in Rebecca Frecknall's brand-new West End production of Cabaret. She plays Fraulein Kost and Fritzie.For this production, the Playhouse Theatre has been transformed into The Kit Kat Club. The show also stars Eddie Redmayne as The Emcee, Jessie Buckley as Sally Bowles and Omari Douglas as Cliff Bradshaw. Just a few of Anna-Jane's extensive theatre credits include: Sweet Charity (Sheffield Crucible/TMA nomination for Best Actress), The Band Plays On, Annie Get Your Gun, Flowers for Mrs. Harris, Company, & Piaf (Sheffield Crucible), Girl from the North Country (Toronto Royal Alexandra & London Gielgud), Calendar Girls The Musical (UK Tour), Billy Elliot (UK & International Tour and Victoria Palace), Stepping Out (Vaudeville), Mack and Mabel (Chichester, UK Tour & Newbury Watermill/TMA for Best Performance in a Musical), Forbidden Broadway (Menier Chocolate Factory & Vaudeville), Jerry’s Girls (St James), Comedy of Errors (Regent’s Park), Spamalot (Playhouse), Sunday in the Park with George (Menier Chocolate Factory), Chicago (Adelphi), West Side Story (Prince Edward & Prince Of Wales), Starlight Express (Apollo Victoria), Grease (Dominion), Joseph and The Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat (London Palladium) and Cats (New London).Cabaret is booking at the Kit Kat Club until Saturday 14th May 2022.Visit www.kitkat.club for info and tickets. Hosted by Andrew Tomlins. @Andrew_Tomlins Thanks for listening! Email: [email protected] westendframe.co.uk for more info about our podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today we have a special bonus episode with drag superstar Karen From Finance!Karen is currently starring alongside Cheryl Hole, Kitty Scott Claus and Choriza May in TuckShop's West End all-drag pantomime, Dick Whittington. The production is running at the Phoenix Theatre for select dates across December and January.Karen was the standout star from the first season of RuPaul's Drag Race Down Under, finishing as a runner-up. She recently starred in the UK tour of Death Drop, also for TuckShop.Karen has an acclaimed one-woman show, Out Of Office, which will make its London debut at Christmas in Leicester Square on Monday 13th December.Dick Whhittington runs at the Phoenix Theatre on Sunday 5th, 12th & 19th December 2021 and Tuesday 4th & Sunday 9th January 2022. Visit www.atgtickets.com for tickets. Hosted by Andrew Tomlins. @Andrew_Tomlins Thanks for listening! Email: [email protected] westendframe.co.uk for more info about our podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Vanessa is starring as Danielle in the UK premiere of Bring It On The Musical by Lin-Manuel Miranda, Tom Kitt, Amanda Green and Jeff Whitty.The musical runs at the Southbank Centre over Christmas ahead of a UK tour in 2022.Vanessa's theatre credits include: Dynamite in Hairspray (UK Tour), Chiffon/Dance Captain in Little Shop Of Horrors (UK Tour), Martha Reeves in Motown (West End), Hansel & Gretel (Rose Theatre Kingston) and Sandra in An Officer and a Gentleman (Leicester Curve).Most recently, Vanessa starred as Young Stella in Follies and understudies the Narrator in the West End revival of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat at The London Palladium. Bring It On runs at the Southbank Centre 8th December - 22nd January and tours the UK until July 2022. Visit www.bringitonthemusicaluk.com for tour dates and tickets. Hosted by Andrew Tomlins. @Andrew_Tomlins Thanks for listening! Email: [email protected] westendframe.co.uk for more info about our podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Julie Jupp is playing Fairy Fuchsia in Jack and the Beanstalk at the Hackney Empire. The show is co-directed by Clive Rowe and Tony Whittle. Just a few of Julie's theatre credits include: A Christmas Carol (The Old Vic In Camera), Man Of La Mancha (English National Opera), Groundhog Day (The Old Vic), Richard III (Trafalgar Studios), Urinetown (St James & West End), Merrily We Roll Along (Harold Pinter), Finding Neverland (Leicester Curve), Road Show (Menier Chocolate Factory), The Secret Garden (Birmingham Rep) and she created the role of Julie Saunders in Bad Girls The Musical (West Yorkshire Playhouse & West End). Jack and the Beanstalk runs at the Hackney Empire until Sunday 2nd January 2022. Visit www.hackneyempire.co.uk for info and tickets.Hosted by Andrew Tomlins. @Andrew_Tomlins Thanks for listening! Email: [email protected] westendframe.co.uk for more info about our podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Djalenga is currently starring as Velma in the UK Tour of Chicago, having understudied the role in 2006 and 2012 in the West End.Djalenga's theatre credits include Bombalurina in Cats (Kilworth House), Lily St. Regis in Annie (West End & UK Tour), Rizzo in Grease (Curve / Dubai), Anita in West Side Story (UK Tour), Harley Quinn in Batman Live (US Tour), Magenta in The Rocky Horror Show (European Tour), Brooke in Noises Off (Birmingham Rep), Jazmin & alternate Alex Owens in Flashdance (Original Cast - UK Tour), Carmen in Fame (European Tour) and Mrs Potiphar in Joseph (West End). The UK Tour of Chicago is currently booking until July 2022, including a run at the Churchill Theatre in Bromley 22nd - 27th November. Visit www.chicagothemusical.com for tour dates and tickets. Hosted by Andrew Tomlins. @Andrew_Tomlins Thanks for listening! Email: [email protected] westendframe.co.uk for more info about our podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sha is starring as Eponine in the West End production of Les Misérables at the Sondheim Theatre.Having graduated from Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts in 2021, Les Misérables marks Sha's West End and professional debuts.In her first interview, Sha discusses auditioning to play Eponine, her path into the industry and experiences of training at drama school during the pandemic... plus lots more!For Les Misérables tickets, visit www.lesmis.com.Hosted by Andrew Tomlins. @Andrew_Tomlins Thanks for listening! Email: [email protected] westendframe.co.uk for more info about our podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Savannah is starring as Marmee in the London premiere of Little Women at the Park Theatre.Produced by Aria Entertainment, Hope Mill Theatre and Knockhardy Productions in association with Park Theatre, the musical is based on the 1868 novel by Louisa May Alcott. Little Women ran on Broadway in 2005 starring Sutton Foster. Savannah starred as Glinda in the West End production of Wicked at the Apollo Victoria Theatre for three years between 2013 and 2016. During her tenure, Savannah performed opposite Willemijn Verkaik, Kerry Ellis, Jennifer DiNoia and Emma Hatton as Elphaba.Just a few of Savannah's other credits include understudying Mary & Mrs Banks in the original production of Mary Poppins (Bristol & West End), understudy Scarlett in Trevor Nunn’s production of Gone With The Wind (West End), Young Sally in Follies (Northampton Royal), Cinderella in Simply Cinderella (Leicester Curve), Martha in The Secret Garden (West Yorkshire Playhouse), Aspects of Love (Menier Chocolate Factory), Sybil in Chariots Of Fire (Hampstead & West End) and Guenevere in Camelot (London Palladium). Savannah has also participated in many workshops and regularly works on screen.In this episode, Savannah discusses the excitement surrounding Little Women's London premiere, the decisions she has made throughout her career and how it feels to be returning to theatre for the first time since becoming a mum.Little Women runs at the Park Theatre 11th November - 19th December. Visit www.parktheatre.co.uk for info and tickets.Hosted by Andrew Tomlins. @Andrew_Tomlins Thanks for listening! Email: [email protected] westendframe.co.uk for more info about our podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Olivier nominee Dan Burton is currently starring as Phil Davis in the UK tour of White Christmas, having previously played the role in the West End at the Dominion Theatre. Described as "a timeless romantic comedy to warm hearts of all ages", White Christmas has music and lyrics by Irving Berlin and book by David Ives and Paul Blake. Dan’s theatre credits include playing Giles in The Mousetrap (West End), Don Lockwood in Singin’ In The Rain (Paris), Jerry in Top Hat (Kilworth House), Billy in 42nd Street (Paris), Riff in West Side Story (Austria) and he was nominated for an Olivier Award for his performance as Tulsa in Gypsy (Savoy Theatre / Chichester); Earlier in his career, Dan appeared onstage in The Pajama Game, Grease, Jersey Boys, Betty Blue Eyes, Legally Blonde, Chicago, Dirty Dancing and Miss Saigon.White Christmas tours the UK until Sunday 2nd January 2022. You can see it at The Bristol Hippdrome, Canterbury Marlowe, Manchester Palace Theatre, Plymouth Theatre Royal and Edinburgh Playhouse. Hosted by Andrew Tomlins. @Andrew_Tomlins Thanks for listening! Email: [email protected] westendframe.co.uk for more info about our podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sharon is currently starring as Sloane in the UK tour of Bat Out Of Hell, having created the role in the original production.Sharon originally opened Bat Out Of Hell - which features Jim Steinman and Meat Loaf’s greatest hits - in Manchester, with the show transferring to the London Coliseum and then the Dominion Theatre. She also starred in the musical's run in Canada.Just a few of Sharon's theatre credits include playing Donna in the UK & international tour of Mamma Mia! as well as the West End productions of Billy Elliot and The Commitments. Alongside theatre work, Sharon is well known for her cabarets; her show with Rob Fowler has won awards whilst she also has an acclaimed one woman show based on the life of Liza Minnelli.Sharon recorded this chat in her dressing room at the Manchester Opera House during tech rehearsals. Bat Out Of Hell tours the UK until November 2022. Visit www.batoutofhellmusical.com for info and tickets.Hosted by Andrew Tomlins. @Andrew_Tomlins Thanks for listening! Email: [email protected] westendframe.co.uk for more info about our podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Shem is currently starring as Caladar in the world premiere of Vanara.Following its workshop performances and concept album, Vanara is being staged at the Hackney Empire. The musical is written by Tony Cucchiara, Gianluca Cucchiara, Andrew James Whelan and Michael Conley. This production is directed by Adam Lenson and Eleesha Drennan, who also serve as dramaturg and choreographer respectively.Later this year, Shem will star as CC in the first ever UK tour of Dreamgirls which kicks off at the Liverpool Empire on 14th December. Having graduated from Arts Ed during the pandemic, Shem made his professional debut alongside Cedric Neal, Rachel Tucker, Rachel John & Ramin Karimloo in the digital production of Songs For A New World by Jason Robert Brown. He reprised his performance when the musical was staged at the London Palladium and was due to continue with the show for its run at the Vaudeville Theatre, which was sadly cancelled due to a lockdown. He also appeared in The Music of Andrew Lloyd Webber at Leicester Curve directed by Nikolai Foster. Vanara runs at the Hackney Empire until Sunday 31st October 2021 before embarking on a UK tour in 2022.Hosted by Andrew Tomlins. @Andrew_Tomlins Thanks for listening! Email: [email protected] westendframe.co.uk for more info about our podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lucie is starring in the UK tour of Waitress, reprising her performance from the West End production (Adelphi Theatre). Based on the 2007 movie written by Adrienne Shelly, Waitress has music and lyrics by Sara Bareilles with book by Jessie Nelson. Directed by Diane Paulus with choreography by Lorin Latarro, Waitress has garnered multiple awards and nominations in both America and the UK.Lucie burst onto our screens in the 2009 series of The X Factor (ITV) and has gone on to become one of the most renowned leading ladies in theatreland. Lucie made her West End debut as Cosette in Les Misérables (Queens Theatre). Her credits include: Meat in We Will Rock You (International Arena Tour), Victoria in American Psycho (Almedia Theatre), Molly in Ghost (Asian Tour), Elle Woods in Legally Blonde (Leicester Curve & UK Tour), Holly in The Wedding Singer (UK Tour), Maureen in Rent (St James Theatre & UK Tour), Lou in Girlfriends (LMTO), Heidi in Title Of Show (Digital Production), The Ghost Of Christmas Past in A Christmas Carol (Dominion Theatre) and most recently she returned to Les Misérables (Sondheim Theatre) to play Fantine in the concert production. In 2017, Lucie represented the United Kingdom at the Eurovision Song Contest in Kyiv (Kiev), Ukraine. In 2020, Lucie performed a live concert to a sold-out audience at London’s Adelphi Theatre. Accompanied by the London Musical Theatre Orchestra, the concert was recorded for a live album "Lucie Jones: Live at The Adelphi". It was recently announced that Lucie will be completing her run in Waitress in December. After leaving Waitress, Lucie will perform two Christmas concerts at St David’s Hall in Cardiff on Monday 13th December and at the West End’s Her Majesty’s Theatre on Tuesday 14th December. You can see Lucie in Waitress until Saturday 4th December. Visit www.waitressthemusical.co.uk for tour dates and tickets. For more info about her Christmas concerts, visit www.cuffeandtaylor.com.Hosted by Andrew Tomlins. @Andrew_Tomlins Thanks for listening! Email: [email protected] westendframe.co.uk for more info about our podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Marc Antolin is preparing to play Leo Matienne in RSC's new musical The Magician's Elephant.Adapted from Kate DiCamillo's novel, The Magician's Elephant has book & lyrics by Nancy Harris and music & lyrics by Marc Teitler. The production is directed by Sarah Tipple.The Magician's Elephant marks Marc's return to the RSC, having originated the role of Rudolpho in Matilda The Musical.Just a few of Marc's credits include The Music Man, Singin’ in the Rain & Amadeus (Chichester), Taken At Midnight (Chichester & Theatre Royal Haymarket), Imagine This (New London Theatre), Hello Dolly & Into The Woods (Regent’s Park), From Here To Eternity (Shaftesbury Theatre), The Trial (Young Vic), Peter Pan (National Theatre), Twelth Night (Shakespeare’s Globe), Romantics Anonymous (Sam Wanamaker Playhouse, Bristol Old Vic & US tour) and Camelot (Watermill). Additionally, Marc was nominated for an Olivier Award for his performance as Seymour in Little Shop of Horrors at the Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre.This episode was recorded in-person at the RSC's studios in London.The Magician's Elephant runs at the RSC's Royal Shakespeare Theatre in Stratford Upon Avon from Monday 18th October until Saturday 1st January. Hosted by Andrew Tomlins. @Andrew_Tomlins Thanks for listening! Email: [email protected] westendframe.co.uk for more info about our podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Olivier-Award-winning and Tony-Award-nominated performer Jenna Russell is currently preparing for her first large solo concert at Cadogan Hall on Sunday 7th November 2021. Jenna will perform some of her favourite songs and material from some of the roles she has played, with a live band helmed by her friend, and musical director, Nigel Lilley.Jenna most recently starred as the title role in Piaf (Nottingham Playhouse/Leeds Playhouse) and Celebrating Sondheim (Chichester Festival Theatre). Jenna has played so many iconic roles in so many iconic productions! Just a few of her performances have included Sarah Brown in Guys and Dolls (Piccadilly Theatre), Dot in Sunday In The Park With George (West End & Broadway), Helen in Fun Home (Young Vic), Francesca in The Bridges of Madison County (Menier Chocolate Factory), Mephistopheles in Doctor Faustus (Duke Of York's), Little Edie in Grey Gardens (Southwark Playhouse), Woman 2 in Songs For A New World (St James Theatre), Rose in Di and Viv and Rose (Vaudeville Theatre), Penelope Pennywise in Urinetown (St James Theatre/Apollo Theatre), Mary Flynn in Merrily We Roll Along (Menier Chocolate Factory/Harold Pinter Theatre) & Baker's Wife in Into The Woods (Regent's Park Open Air Theatre).Jenna played Michelle Fowler in EastEnders (BBC), with her other television appearances including the BBC’s Born and Bred, Call the Midwife & Death in Paradise and ITV’s Midsomer Murders & Home To Roost as well as being the performer of the theme tune to the sit-com Red Dwarf.In this episode, Jenna discusses preparations for her solo show, the challenge of learning Piaf and the time she saved a performance of Les Mis... plus lots more!For tickets to Jenna's solo show, visit www.cadoganhall.com.Hosted by Andrew Tomlins. @Andrew_Tomlins Thanks for listening! Email: [email protected] westendframe.co.uk for more info about our podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Shobna can currently be seen in Going The Distance, a new digital comedy by Henry Filloux-Bennett and Yasmeen Khan. Directed by Felicity Montagu, Going The Distance is a co-production from the Lawrence Batley Theatre, Oxford Playhouse, The Dukes and The Watermill Theatre. The cast also includes Sara Crowe, Nicole Evans, Sarah Hadland, Merch Husey, Matthew Kelly, Emma McDonald and Penny Ryder with Stephen Fry as the Narrator. Going The Distance is available to stream until 17th October via www.goingthedistanceplay.com.Shobna can currently be seen on screen as Ray in the film adaptation of Everybody’s Talking About Jamie. She previously played the role in the musical's West End production, and is currently reprising her performance on the UK tour.Next year Shobna will be starring alongside Christina Bianco in The Rise and Fall of Little Voice on tour. Shobna became a household name for her role as Anita in Victoria Wood’s Dinnerladies and as Sunita in Coronation Street. Just a few of her theatre credits include: Cinderella (Lyric Hammersmith), Richard II (The Globe), Anita & Me (Birmingham Rep/Touring Consortium), Grease (Leicester Curve) and she played Tanya in the Mamma Mia! International Tour.Shobna recently wrote her debut book Remember Me.You can see Shobna on tour in Jamie until January 2022. The Jamie movie is out now on Amazon Prime.Hosted by Andrew Tomlins. @Andrew_Tomlins Thanks for listening! Email: [email protected] westendframe.co.uk for more info about our podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Akeem is currently starring as Seaweed J. Stubbs in the UK touring production of Hairspray The Musical.Prior to Hairspray, he understudied Stevie Wonder in the UK tour of Motown The Musical. In this episode, Akeem discusses his path into the industry, why Seaweed is his dream role and lots more!Hairspray is currently touring through to April 2022. Visit www.hairsprayuktour.com for info and tickets. Hosted by Andrew Tomlins. @Andrew_Tomlins Thanks for listening! Email: [email protected] westendframe.co.uk for more info about our podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.