Encore Meets by Encore Radio

In this episode of Encore Meets, we catch up pop star turned musical theatre performer Antony Costa to talk about Zorro The Musical.  Antony rose to fame in boy band Blue - with whom he achieved three number ones in the UK album chart.  As well as still playing gigs with the band, Antony has developed a career in theatre, which included a West End run as Mickey in Blood Brothers. Antony tells us how the two types of performance vary, and which role he'd most like to play in musical theatre. Encore Meets is an Encore Radio podcast series. Go backstage in the West End, Broadway and beyond with Encore Radio’s exclusive theatre interviews. Subscribe to get the latest episodes.

Encore Meets – an Encore Radio podcast series. Go backstage in the West End, Broadway and beyond with Encore Radio’s exclusive theatre interviews. In this episode of Encore Meets, we catch up with West End star Tyrone Huntley, who tells us about the best moments of his career and his relationship with Encore Radio's Charity of the Year. Tyrone started his stage career in Sister Act, before going on to star in The Book of Mormon, Memphis and Jesus Christ Superstar. Tyrone tells us about his route into theatre, how he swapped his lawyer's wig for a wig from the costume department and his role as a patron of Mousetrap Theatre Projects. Encore Meets is an Encore Radio podcast series. Go backstage in the West End, Broadway and beyond with Encore Radio’s exclusive theatre interviews. Subscribe to get the latest episodes.

In this episode of Encore Meets, we're chatting to Sarah Earnshaw who stars in the new UK tour of Some Mothers Do 'Ave 'Em. It's the second outing of the show, with Sarah returning to the role of Betty Spencer, alongside Joe Pasquale as Frank Spencer. Sarah tells us what it's like to work with Joe, and reflects on some of her favourite musical theatre moments after being in big shows including Wicked, Spamalot and Little Shop of Horrors. Encore Meets is an Encore Radio podcast series. Go backstage in the West End, Broadway and beyond with Encore Radio’s exclusive theatre interviews. Subscribe to get the latest episodes.

In this episode of Encore Meets, we're at the launch of the new West End production of Hairspray - chatting to Paul Merton and Lizzie Bea. The pair will be joined in the cast by Michael Ball, Rita Simons and Marisha Wallace when the show plays at the London Coliseum from April. Paul tells us about making his musical theatre debut in the show, while Lizzie explains why the role of Tracy Turnblad has always been a character she's longed to play. Encore Meets is an Encore Radio podcast series. Go backstage in the West End, Broadway and beyond with Encore Radio’s exclusive theatre interviews. Subscribe to get the latest episodes.

In this episode of Encore Meets, we're chatting to Peter Straker, who currently stars in La Cage aux Folles at Park Theatre in Finsbury Park. Peter was part of the original London production of Hair alongside Paul Nicholas and Elaine Paige. He's also is a solo artist, and is soon to release an album full of music which was co-produced by Freddie Mercury. He tells us all about La Cage aux Folles, his memories of performing in the West End in the '60s, and what it was like working with Freddie. Encore Meets is an Encore Radio podcast series. Go backstage in the West End, Broadway and beyond with Encore Radio’s exclusive theatre interviews. Subscribe to get the latest episodes.

In this episode of Encore Meets, we're at the launch of the new West End production of Hairspray - chatting to Rita Simons and Marisha Wallace. The pair will be joined in the cast by Michael Ball, Paul Merton and Lizzie Bea when the show plays at the London Coliseum from April. Rita and Marisha tells us about their characters, lifelong dreams coming true and why Michael Ball made them join the show. Encore Meets is an Encore Radio podcast series. Go backstage in the West End, Broadway and beyond with Encore Radio’s exclusive theatre interviews. Subscribe to get the latest episodes.

In this episode of Encore Meets, we're chatting to Daniel Healy and Emma Lucia, who star in the current UK tour of Once. Daniel was part of the original West End production of the musical where both Arthur Darville and Ronan Keating featured in the lead role of Guy. Emma's returning to the part of Girl after playing the character on the original UK tour. They tell us what life's like as a performer on tour, they reveal their favourite songs from the show, and explain how they make their partnership work on stage. Encore Meets is an Encore Radio podcast series. Go backstage in the West End, Broadway and beyond with Encore Radio’s exclusive theatre interviews. Subscribe to get the latest episodes.

In this episode of Encore Meets, we're chatting to Richard Hadfield and Harry Kit Lee, who will be sharing their Musicality show in the coming months. Former Collabro star Richard and West End actor Harry will be joined on stage by Norman Bowman and Claire Delaney as they sing musical theatre songs - with a difference. The boys tell us what we can expect from the show at Zedel and The Other Palace , where their inspiration comes from and why musical theatre is in a strong place right now. Encore Meets is an Encore Radio podcast series. Go backstage in the West End, Broadway and beyond with Encore Radio’s exclusive theatre interviews. Subscribe to get the latest episodes.

In this episode of Encore Meets, we catch up with four time Olivier Award nominee Emma Williams, who is returning to the role of Luisa in a concert version of Zorro: The Musical. The musical first opened in London in July 2008, with Matt Rawle as Zorro and Lesli Margherita as Inez - a role she will also reprise at Cadogan Hall on 23rd February. Emma tells us what it's been like re-learning the role, her memories of being in the original cast, and how life has changed for her since becoming a mum. Encore Meets is an Encore Radio podcast series. Go backstage in the West End, Broadway and beyond with Encore Radio’s exclusive theatre interviews. Subscribe to get the latest episodes.

In this episode of Encore Meets, we catch up with Fiona Finsbury, who is taking lead roles in Opera Undone - which is providing a new way for audiences to enjoy opera. Tosca and La Bohème have been translated into English, had their stories re-set and shortened in length in an attempt to make the art form more accessible to a modern day audience. Fiona tells us what theatregoers can expect, how she was inspired by Maria Callas and what she does to prepare to deliver a huge vocal performance every night. Encore Meets is an Encore Radio podcast series. Go backstage in the West End, Broadway and beyond with Encore Radio’s exclusive theatre interviews. Subscribe to get the latest episodes.

In this episode of Encore Meets, we're chatting to Paul Taylor-Mills, who is preparing for the second year of MTFestUK - which gives new musical theatre shows a platform to perform. Eight productions including Soapdish, Tyrell and The Assassination of Katie Hopkins will play during the festival in February 2020 at the new Turbine Theatre in Battersea. Paul tells us how he selected which shows would feature at the festival, how he's turned an underground tunnel into a theatre space and he helps us choose which show we'd like to see at the festival. Encore Meets is an Encore Radio podcast series. Go backstage in the West End, Broadway and beyond with Encore Radio’s exclusive theatre interviews. Subscribe to get the latest episodes.

In this episode of Encore Meets, we're chatting to Shelli Epstein, who leads the cast in Cirque du Soleil's incredible production of LUZIA at the Royal Albert Hall. Through stunning acrobatics, breathtaking visual surprises and musical interludes, the show takes the audience to an imaginary Mexico, with the country's historic and modern culture on display. Shelli tells us what it's like to be back home in London, how she trains to maintain such a demanding level of performance and which acts in the show still make her gasp at their danger. Encore Meets is an Encore Radio podcast series. Go backstage in the West End, Broadway and beyond with Encore Radio’s exclusive theatre interviews. Subscribe to get the latest episodes.

In this episode of Encore Meets, we catch up with musical theatre icon Sierra Boggess, who is returning to London with her solo show. Sierra's performing at Cadogan Hall on February 2nd, performing songs from the shows she's performed in including The Phantom of the Opera, The Little Mermaid and Les Misérables. Speaking from across the pond in New York City, Sierra tells us what we can expect from her show, and she tells us which production she would return to in a heartbeat. Encore Meets is an Encore Radio podcast series. Go backstage in the West End, Broadway and beyond with Encore Radio’s exclusive theatre interviews. Subscribe to get the latest episodes.

In this episode of Encore Meets, we sit down with musical theatre composer Joe Iconis, who is bringing his show Be More Chill to the UK. Be More Chill is the new musical sensation that’s about to invade your brain…in the best way. Featuring a Tony Award®-nominated score, the show is a mind-bendingly fun hit about the competing voices in all of our heads. According to The New Yorker, “If you fed 'Dear Evan Hansen' and 'Mean Girls' to the 'Little Shop of Horrors' plant, you'd get Be More Chill. It plays at The Other Palace from 12th September 2020. Encore Meets is an Encore Radio podcast series. Go backstage in the West End, Broadway and beyond with Encore Radio’s exclusive theatre interviews. Subscribe to get the latest episodes.

In this episode of Encore Meets, we catch up with one of the West End’s busiest ladies, Marisha Wallace. Marisha tells us all about her current role in Waitress, taking on a solo tour across the UK and realising a dream when she becomes Motormouth Maybelle in Hairspray later this year. Encore Meets is an Encore Radio podcast series. Go backstage in the West End, Broadway and beyond with Encore Radio’s exclusive theatre interviews. Subscribe to get the latest episodes.

In this episode of Encore Meets, we meet original Nolan Sister, West End leading lady and Internationally renowned cabaret star Denise Nolan. Denise tells us about her career to date and her upcoming tour The Music Of Judy Garland. About The Music Of Judy Garland:  Join original Nolan Sister, West End leading lady and Internationally renowned cabaret star Denise Nolan with her band of West End musicians led by Dave Bintley for an evening of remarkable music. The show will feature the timeless classic ‘Somewhere Over The Rainbow’ along with other hit songs including ‘The Man That Got Away’, ‘Stormy Weather’ and ‘Zing Went The Strings’. With anecdotes about Garland’s life and comparisons to her own career that includes performing alongside the late great Frank Sinatra, Nolan brings her own vibrant style and world class vocals to classic Garland hits.

In this episode of Encore Meets, we meet Jamie Muscato and Adriana Ivelisse. Jamie plays Tony and Adriana Ivelisse plays Maria, in the Made at Curve production of West Side Story. About West Side Story:  Inspired by Shakespeare’s classic tragedy Romeo and Juliet, a 20-strong company will be bringing West Side Story's timeless score including 'America', 'I Feel Pretty', 'Tonight' and 'Something’s Coming', to magnificent life on-stage with a 15-piece orchestra. Directed by Nikolai Foster, this Made at Curve musical features brand new choreography by Ellen Kane, with Sarah Travis as Musical Supervisor and set design by Michael Taylor.

In this episode of Encore Meets, we meet Carley Stenson. Carley is currently starring in Curtains, a Tony Award-winning musical from the creators of Cabaret and Chicago. About Curtains:  From the Tony Award-winning creators of Cabaret and Chicago, this production tells the story of Jessica Cranshaw, star of the new Broadway-bound musical Robbin Hood, who has been murdered on stage on opening night! The entire cast and crew are suspects. Time to call in the local detective, Frank Cioffi, who just happens to be a huge musical theatre fan. With a nose for crime and an ear for music, Frank has his work cut out trying to find the killer whilst giving the show a lifeline.

In today’s Encore Meets episode, we meet theatre star Helena Blackman. Helena is currently starring in The Snow Queen, a festive new version of the Hans Christian Andersen classic written by Ciaran McConville, at Rose Theatre Kingston. About The Snow Queen: Tucked away in a long-forgotten corner of the city is an orphanage. Here Gerda discovers that she is no ordinary teenager, but a Child of Magic, hidden from the reaches of the evil Snow Queen. When she shows her powers to her best friend Kai, she unwittingly reveals their whereabouts. Kai is lured away, and Gerda must journey to the Frozen North into the Queen’s clutches to save him. Her perilous adventure includes an unlikely pirate captain and a talking reindeer, secretive elves and vicious trolls. As the Snow Queen rallies her forces, Gerda must learn the true nature of her magic powers to save Christmas and rescue Kai. This Christmas, be enchanted by Hans Christian Andersen’s powerful tale of love, magic and self-realisation. This glittering new adaptation features a wealth of local talent from the Rose Youth Theatre alongside a professional cast.

In today’s Encore Meets episode, we meet Michael Matus. Michael is currently starring in The Astonishing Times of Timothy Cratchit, a new musical at Hope Mill Theatre, with book by Allan Knee and music and lyrics by Andre Catrini. About The Astonishing Times Of Timothy Cratchit:  The Astonishing Times Of Timothy Cratchit tells the tale of a young man who sets out to find his place in an expanding and volatile world. Inspired by the characters of Charles Dickens’s A Christmas Carol, the story follows the plight of young Tim from the home of his benefactor, Ebenezer Scrooge, to the theatrical madness of the great comic, Giuseppe Grimaldi.

In today’s Encore Meets episode, we meet West End Star Dave Hearn. Dave Hearn is one of the founding members of Mischief Theatre and in this episode, he takes us back to the very beginning and tells us about his story. We learn about what it was like winning the Olivier Awards and tells us more about Growns Ups at the Vaudeville Theatre.

In today’s Encore Meets episode, we meet Broadway and West End star Hayden Tee. Acclaimed for his role as Miss Trunchbull in the Royal Shakespeare Company’s Matilda The Musical, we learn more about his first album dedicated to musical theatre.

In today’s Encore Meets episode, we meet West End star Millie O'Connell who is currently playing Velcro in Soho Cinders at the Charing Cross Theatre. 

In today’s Encore Meets episode, we meet West End star Bonnie Langford to learn more about 42nd Street being screened in around 550 cinemas across the UK and Ireland from 10 November 2019.

In today’s Encore Meets episode, we meet cast member Oliver Ormson, director and choreographer Tom Jackson Greaves and book adaptor Vicky Stone.

In today’s Encore Meets episode, we meet Artistic Director David Grewcock, and cast members Rachel Grundy and Alex Bartles from West End Bares.

In today’s Encore Meets episode, we meet West End stars Daniel Boys and Oliver Savile backstage at The Other Palace. Daniel Boys plays the role of Marvin and Oliver Savile as Whizzer in this UK Premier of Falsettos. 

In today’s Encore Meets episode, we meet Jacinta Whyte who is starring in the role of Angela in the UK tour of Angela's Ashes The Musical. About Angela's Ashes The Musical As his parents struggle to provide for him and his brothers in 1940s Ireland, we follow young Frank’s escapades and experiences in a Dickensian landscape peopled by a drunken father, a helpless mother, pompous priests, bullying schoolmasters and money-lenders culminating in his defiant escape to a new life in America.

In today’s Encore Meets episode, we meet Audrey Brisson and Chris Jared from Amélie The Musical. 

Encore Meets – an Encore Radio podcast series. Go backstage in the West End, Broadway and beyond with Encore Radio’s exclusive theatre interviews. In today’s Encore Meets episode, we meet Elia Lo Tauro who is currently playing the role of José Fajardo in On Your Feet! The Story of Emilio and Gloria Estefan.

In today’s Encore Meets episode, we meet Kieth Jack who is currently starring in the UK Tour of Fame The Musical.  This definitive 30th-anniversary tour of Fame The Musical has returned to London and is currently playing at The Peacock Theatre until Saturday 19th October 2019. This production stars Keith Jack (Any Dream Will Do, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat), Mica Paris (Love Me Tender, Chicago, Mama I Want To Sing) and Jorgie Porter (Hollyoaks, Dancing On Ice).

In today’s Encore Meets episode, we meet Mica Paris who is currently starring in the UK Tour of Fame The Musical.  This definitive 30th-anniversary tour of Fame The Musical has returned to London and is currently playing at The Peacock Theatre until Saturday 19th October 2019. This production stars Keith Jack (Any Dream Will Do, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat), Mica Paris (Love Me Tender, Chicago, Mama I Want To Sing) and Jorgie Porter (Hollyoaks, Dancing On Ice).

In today’s Encore Meets episode, we meet television and theatre star, Tracie Bennett. Tracie is currently in rehearsals for Jerry Herman’s Mame which will open at the Hope Mill Theatre on 27th September 2019. Encore Meets – an Encore Radio podcast series. Go backstage in the West End, Broadway and beyond with Encore Radio’s exclusive theatre interviews.

In today’s Encore Meets episode, we speak to Kristian Lavercombe who plays Riff Raff on the UK Tour of The Rocky Horror Show. Encore Meets – an Encore Radio podcast series. Go backstage in the West End, Broadway and beyond with Encore Radio’s exclusive theatre interviews.

In today’s Encore Meets episode, we meet three of the stars from What's In A Name? Bo Poraj, Summer Strallen and Alex Gaumond. What's In A Name? tours to Guildford, Glasgow, York, Aylesbury, Cambridge, Windsor, Richmond and Southampton from 5th September 2019.

In today’s Encore Meets episode, we meet Jonathan Blackburn, the founder of Stages – The Musical Theatre Festival At Sea. He tells us about why he founded Stages – The Musical Theatre Festival At Sea and we learn more about his passion for musical theatre. He tells us more about the facilities onboard and what passengers can expect from this festival.

In today’s Encore Meets episode, we meet Broadway & West End star, Caissie Levy. Caissie is currently starring in her sixth Broadway show, originating the role of Elsa in Disney’s blockbuster hit, Frozen. We speak to Caissie about her up and coming solo concert at London’s Cadogan Hall. She also tells us about her early career in Musical Theatre, what audiences can expect from her solo show and what advice she has for young performers.

In today’s Encore Meets episode, we meet Drew Baker, who is curating the Stages enrichment programme for Stages - The Musical Theatre Festival At Sea.  He tells us more about the musical theatre festival which will be taking to the seas on Monday 14th October 2019 from Southampton.

In today’s Encore Meets episode, we head backstage at the Ambassadors Theatre, in London’s West End to meet West End star Lara Denning. Lara is currently playing the role of Miss Elf / Doreen Slater in The Secret Diary Of Adrian Mole Aged 13¾ - The Musical. Lara tells us more about the show and what it was like being involved in this production since opening at the Menier Chocolate Factory before transferring to the West End.

In today’s Encore Meets episode, we head backstage at the Harold Pinter Theatre, in London's West End to meet Alex Mugnaioni, star of Captain Corelli's Mandolin. We learn more about the show and how Alex's skilled musicianship plays a key part in this show.

In today’s Encore Meets episode, we sit down with the creator of The View UpStairs Max Vernon. We find out more about how Max created this musical and how he came across this story. The View UpStairs runs from 18 July to 24 August 2019 at Soho Theatre, London.

In today’s Encore Meets episode, we sit down with Exective Producer & Director Darren Bell from Club 11 London. We find out more about Club 11's up and coming concerts including Laura Benanti, Caissie Levy, Jeremy Jordan and Kelli O'Hara. Darren also tells us more about how Club 11 was founded and we hear the full story about Keala Settle's surprise pop up concert.

Musical Love Is Only Love returns to The Other Palace in July 2019.In today's Encore Meets episode, we sit down with the writer Sam Harrison to find out more about Love Is Only Love and also the importance of diverse story telling.

Mum’s The Word is the new cabaret brought to you by three West End stars. Due to popular demand Mum's The Word has added another performance.West End Stars, Lorna Want, Vivien Carter & Joanna Woodward star in this new cabaret at Crazy Coqs on 15th July 2019 at both 7pm & 9:15pm. We sat down with Lorna and Joanna, two of the stars of the show to find out more.

Steph Parry is back with her one-woman show – The Girl Who Ran Down The Road. Steph Parry will make her Crazy Coqs debut this summer. For one night only, she will be performing her show The Girl Who Ran Down The Road on 21st July 2019 at 7pm. Listen to our interview with Steph below to find out which special West End stars will be joining her on stage.