This podcast series finds Mark Curry in conversation with a range of guests with a view to asking the main questions - How did you do it? What’s it really like? What’s it like to play a leading role in a West End musical? What’s it like to represent the UK at The Eurovision Song Contest? What’s it like being on Strictly Come Dancing? What does it feel like to become famous? How is your event organised? What’s it like to play on Centre Court?
In each episode, Mark delves into the detail. The process. The discipline required. The challenges and the rewards. These unique, peering under the bonnet conversations give honest authentic insights to the questions we’d all love to ask our fantasy dinner party guests.
Actor and presenter, Mark Curry, has created this Podcast series called, “Backstage Curry”. Episodes feature, “behind the scenes” chat with performers, broadcasters and creatives. The series is raising funds for, “Acting For Others”, by providing listeners with an opportunity to donate via the charity’s website or donations link.
Mark, who amongst his many other TV and theatre appearances, completed two 16 month runs as "The Wizard" in the London production of "Wicked", and a 9 month run in "The Woman in Black" in the West End says, “I am fascinated about how other performers prepare for shows and how shows or events are put together. I’m hoping listeners will be interested too and, after listening, will be inspired to donate to, “Acting For Others”, thereby supporting any industry professionals currently facing financial or emotional challenges”. So far, “Backstage Curry”, includes conversations with the current, “Wicked”, leading lady, Alexia Khadime, West End and Doctor Who star, Bonnie Langford. Plus, Debbie McGee talking about her, “Strictly”, experience and singer, Sonia, reminiscing about Eurovision and losing by an agonising one point! Other guests include Harriet Thorpe, Jenny Seagrove, Ruth Langsford, Yvette Fielding, Cheryl Baker, Shakatak and tennis legend Margaret Court.
The Podcast is available wherever you download your podcasts and is produced by Andy Barker.
If you'd like to support my charity of choice, Acting for Others, who support all those working in theatrical professions, please follow the link below.
https://actingforothers.co.uk/donate/
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This podcast series finds Mark Curry in conversation with a range of guests with a view to asking the main questions - How did you do it? What’s it really like? What’s it like to play a leading role in a West End musical? What’s it like to represent the UK at The Eurovision Song Contest? What’s it like being on Strictly Come Dancing? What does it feel like to become famous? How is your event organised? What’s it like to play on Centre Court?
In each episode, Mark delves into the detail. The process. The discipline required. The challenges and the rewards. These unique, peering under the bonnet conversations give honest authentic insights to the questions we’d all love to ask our fantasy dinner party guests.
Actor and presenter, Mark Curry, has created this Podcast series called, “Backstage Curry”. Episodes feature, “behind the scenes” chat with performers, broadcasters and creatives. The series is raising funds for, “Acting For Others”, by providing listeners with an opportunity to donate via the charity’s website or donations link.
Mark, who amongst his many other TV and theatre appearances, completed two 16 month runs as "The Wizard" in the London production of "Wicked", and a 9 month run in "The Woman in Black" in the West End says, “I am fascinated about how other performers prepare for shows and how shows or events are put together. I’m hoping listeners will be interested too and, after listening, will be inspired to donate to, “Acting For Others”, thereby supporting any industry professionals currently facing financial or emotional challenges”. So far, “Backstage Curry”, includes conversations with the current, “Wicked”, leading lady, Alexia Khadime, West End and Doctor Who star, Bonnie Langford. Plus, Debbie McGee talking about her, “Strictly”, experience and singer, Sonia, reminiscing about Eurovision and losing by an agonising one point! Other guests include Harriet Thorpe, Jenny Seagrove, Ruth Langsford, Yvette Fielding, Cheryl Baker, Shakatak and tennis legend Margaret Court.
The Podcast is available wherever you download your podcasts and is produced by Andy Barker.
If you'd like to support my charity of choice, Acting for Others, who support all those working in theatrical professions, please follow the link below.
https://actingforothers.co.uk/donate/
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Back in 1989, the new McDonald family was being written into the storylines of Coronation Street and the search to find an actress to play Liz McDonald began.
Beverley Callard was one of the hot favourites and here she describes the audition process, how much she wanted to be a part of this legendary series and how she’s learned to cope with the fame and attention Coronation Street has brought her.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
EPISODE 40. AND SUDDENLY I BECAME ME!
How presenting, Blue Peter, changed the life of Sarah Greene.
After a guest appearance on, Blue Peter, Sarah Greene was invited for an audition to become one of the presenters on the programme in the early 1980’s. As an actress, enjoying some success at that time, Sarah had never considered television presenting, but she got the job and during her three year stint on the most famous children’s show in the world, her life and career changed. Sarah discusses with Mark how she was able to find her true, ‘on screen’, self during that time and how, Blue Peter, led to her having the successful career she’s still enjoying today.
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Actress Susan Penhaligon talks about starring in the ‘70’s TV drama series, “Bouquet of Barbed Wire” and about the industry today.
First broadcast on ITV in 1976, “Bouquet of Barbed Wire” was highly impactful and watched by millions. This controversial drama about the secrets and desires of a dysfunctional family, was critically acclaimed at the time and brought actress Susan Penhaligon fame and many career opportunities. Still performing today, Susan discusses the series and tells us why she has no thoughts of ever retiring.
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Behind the scenes of the new STEPS musical, “HERE AND NOW”, with cast member Finty Williams.
After a successful Gala performance in Manchester of the musical, “Here and Now”, which features songs by the top selling pop band, STEPS and which is receiving 4 and 5 star reviews-actress Finty Williams talks about her role in the show and about embarking on a UK and Ireland tour.
https://actingforothers.co.uk/donate/
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Performer Nicholas Pound describes being a part of the spectacular Asian tour of the musical, “The Phantom of the Opera”.
A long way from his home in Sussex, the experienced performer, Nicholas Pound takes Mark behind the scenes of the 2025 Asian tour of the worldwide epic musical theatre success, “The Phantom of the Opera”. Two weeks after opening in Bangkok, Nicholas talks about the highs and lows of embarking on this theatrical adventure.
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Talking jazz with the award winning, uniquely talented jazz musician, Ian Shaw.
Born in Wales and growing up in a musical household, Ian Shaw has become one of the UK’s leading jazz performers. His interpretations of songs from different genres of music, coupled with his own writing, has led to Ian being in constant demand at jazz venues and festivals worldwide. On the week of his appearance at the Rye Jazz Festival in August 2025, Ian describes his background and talks about his own preparation and performing process.
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West End musical star Sophia Ragavelas on “nailing” those big, famous show tunes.
Sophia Ragavelas has played such famous roles as, Grizabella in, “CATS”, Eponine and Fantine, in, “LES MISERABLES” and Sophie in, “MAMMA MIA”, amongst others. Here she describes handling the pressure and expectation when performing the well known iconic songs in those shows and her recent role in the new London musical, “KING OF PANGEA”. Sophia talks about her own preparation process and the guidance and support she now provides to other performers through her successful “ Musical Mentor” project.
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Janet Ellis discusses turning her secret writing ambition into a reality.
Embarking on a writing course turned actress and presenter Janet Ellis into a successful novelist. She describes how her first novel, “The Butcher’s Hook”, came about and now, as she works on her 3rd publication, Janet talks about her personal writing process.
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The highs and lows of playing at Wimbledon with tennis legend Margaret Smith Court.
After her first appearance on Centre Court at Wimbledon in 1961, Margaret Court, (nee Smith), went on to claim 10 titles at The Championships including 3 singles, 2 doubles and 5 mixed.
Her Grand Slam total of 64 titles will probably never be beaten and she was often invincible. Playing at Wimbledon was always very special for Margaret but sometimes she found that Centre Court atmosphere a little overwhelming.
Mark takes her through the 12 different years she played there as she remembers her wins and losses on the hallowed turf of the All England Lawn Tennis Club.
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Wimbledon Championships referee, Denise Parnell, talks about being the boss of the fortnight.
Former tennis pro, Denise Parnell became the first female Wimbledon Championships referee in 2024. One of only 13 women to hold the Gold Badge referee qualification, Denise is the top official and responsible for making the most important decisions…managing the tournament draw, scheduling matches, whether to stop play due to rain, when to close the Centre or No1 Court roof and generally ensuring that the most famous tennis event in the world runs smoothly and efficiently. Her discussion with Mark includes how the job came her way and what each day entails.
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Last orders was called at the very well established Kings Head pub theatre in 2023. Now, around the corner from that venue, in Islington Square, London N1, is the bigger, purpose built 200 seater Kings Head Theatre. The current executive producer is Sofi Berenger and in this episode, Sofi tells Mark how the new space was created and why, as well as describing what audiences and performers can experience there.
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First produced in London back in 1984, with music by Andrew Lloyd Webber and lyrics by Richard Stilgoe, “STARLIGHT EXPRESS” has thrilled audiences worldwide and can currently be seen in the Starlight Auditorium at Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre. Amongst the 40 performers is Jaydon Vijn, here describing how the show came his way, his preparation, the pressure plus the thrills AND spills of this spectacular show.
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In this powerful and deeply personal episode, Mark is in conversation with Natasha Cayabyab, a young performer who is making an impact, not just for her talent, but for her courage and honesty in sharing her journey with Bipolar Disorder.
Natasha talks about her diagnosis, the challenges she's faced, and the daily realities of living with a condition that's often misunderstood. From navigating mood swings to developing a strong support system, she shares how she manages her mental health while continuing to pursue her dreams and build a successful career.
This candid conversation dives into the importance of self-awareness, therapy, medication, and routine — as well as challenging the stigma around mental illness that still exists in the theatre and beyond. Whether you live with Bipolar Disorder yourself or simply want to better understand the condition, this episode is a must-listen.
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A chat with the renowned and highly respected Musical Director, Jae Alexander.
Born in South Wales, Jae Alexander asked for a piano as a Christmas present when he was six years old! After studying and learning church music, Jae sang, stage managed and played piano for show rehearsals, before becoming a fully-fledged Musical Director on some of the biggest shows in London. He has led orchestras for Royal Command Performances and for television spectaculars and radio concerts. Jae goes from show to show, working on established musicals as well as new projects. Mark catches up with him during rehearsals for, “Stiletto”, at Charing Cross Theatre.
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Olivier Award nominee, Sophie-Louise Dann describes playing the iconic Madame Morrible, for the past 3 years, in the London production of, “Wicked”.
Sophie-Louise Dann landed the role of Madame Morrible in 2022 and has played this monstrous but captivating character in the London production of, “Wicked”, for 3 years. With one month to go before she takes her final bow, Sophie-Louise talks about how she’s kept up her enthusiasm and dedication and describes her journey from audition to her final few performances.
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The Mousetrap, written by Agatha Christie, opened in Nottingham in 1952 before transferring to the West End. Apart from a break during the Covid 19 pandemic, the play has been thrilling audiences nine times a week- in London and on tour-for over 70 years. The Artistic Director is Denise Silvey, and she discusses why The Mousetrap has lasted and takes Mark backstage at St Martins Theatre.
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COME ON, LADIES - WE’RE LIVE IN FIVE! Behind the scenes of “Loose Women”, with Ruth Langsford.
The award winning ITV daytime show, “Loose Women”, broadcasts live, Monday to Friday and Ruth Langsford is one of the regular presenters. Ruth explains how the show works, describes her preparation and gives her thoughts on why this programme is still such a hit after 25 years.
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How an 18th century flour mill became a theatre!
The owner of The Mill at Sonning in Berkshire, Sally Hughes, talks about how this former flour mill, on the banks of the river, became the UK’s most famous dinner theatre. What does it take to run such a venue? How did it survive lockdown? Who is the very famous next-door neighbour and what does the future hold?
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