The Jason Ward Creative Podcast

Britain has passed a law that removes almost all rights from people escaping violence, torture and starvation who want to settle in the UK. Those claiming asylum in what was once ‘great' Britain will now supposedly be put on planes and sent to Rwanda which the UK Supreme Court defined as unsafe. The new law passed by cruel cowards declares that Rwanda is actually safe regardless of evidence - it is the legal equivalent of declaring black to be white.I don't usually write about politics on my Substack but this morning it feels almost impossible to not comment or express some emotion at what has happened.A couple of years ago I saw a play at The Bush Theatre in West London that continues to affect me emotionally and politically. The P Word is written by Waleed Akhtar and tells the story of two men of Pakistani heritage who are in Britain under very different circumstances. Bilal (known as Billy) has lived in the UK all his life whereas Zafar is seeking asylum in the country due to homophobic beatings he suffered in Pakistan. The play shows the heartless and arbitrary nature of the UK Immigration system and how it is a complete waste of money and resources with refugees unable to work and decisions made to deport people in secret and without giving opportunities for legal representation As I say in the review this play shines a light on some very dark places that 99% of the UK population would be completely shocked by if they were aware of them. The P Word rightly won an Olivier Award in 2022. It deserves another theatre run now because it is an excellent play and shows us all the power of art to raise awareness through emotional storytelling.Interview with Waleed AkhtarThe JasonWard Creative Substack is for readers like you. I really appreciate your time spent here and invite you to support my work by taking out a subscription. A paid subscription gives you access to exclusive content plus the entire archive of over 100 articles, reviews, interviews, podcasts and playlists all full of creative insight designed to help you develop your creative projects and practise. Get full access to The Jason Ward Creative Substack at jasonwardcreative.substack.com/subscribe

The JasonWard Creative Substack is a reader and listener supported publication. I really appreciate your time spent here and would love to invite you to support my work by taking out a subscription. A paid subscription gives you access to exclusive content plus the entire archive of over 100 articles, reviews, interviews, podcasts and playlists all full of creative insight designed to help you develop your creative projects and practise.Creating and producing one show is a big endeavour. In this week's episode Sophia Marie Hornsey CEO of Sophisticated Entertainment talks us through how her company creates, delivers and produces multiple shows across eight venues with eight casts for her client Park Holidays, a major UK leisure brand. This is a return to the podcast for Sophia Marie who was also one of my early consultancy clients. She is a wonderful example of someone who identifies what she wants to do with her business and what skills she needs to achieve her ambitions. Every time we speak it feels as if her company has developed and grown further. In a few short years Sophia Marie has taken Sophisticated Entertainment from a start up delivering birthday entertainment over Zoom to now creating and delivering entertainment for national brands, operating an artist agency and producing theatre shows. The word is that the company is also about to announce a major international partnership too. Sophisticated Entertainment is definitely one to watch! In this episode Sophia Marie talks about;* The importance of a clear rehearsal process.* How to look after your cast.* Adapting creative ideas for multiple casts and casts with multiple abilities* Producing an adult comedy show while maintaining your family friendly brand.* How to set creative and taste boundaries when producing adult comedy* The importance of looking after yourself as a creative and company director.If you want to grow your creative entertainment company or just want to know how creating and producing at scale works then you will find plenty in this episode to learn from.You can find out more about Sophia Marie's work here:https://www.sophisticatedentertainment.comYou can follow Sophisticated Entertainment on Instagram @sophisticatedentertainmentYou can find out more about her client Park Holidays here:https://www.parkholidays.comSophia Marie Hornsey is also a Council Member or The Entertainment Agent's Association https://teaa.ukIf you would like consultancy support with your creative project or practice then please email directly jasonwardcreative@gmail.comFollow me on Instagram @jasonwardcreativeThank you for checking out the JasonWard Creative Substack. To support my work please consider taking out a subscription. Thank You. Get full access to The Jason Ward Creative Substack at jasonwardcreative.substack.com/subscribe

Thank you for checking out the JasonWard Creative Substack Podcast. To support my work please consider taking out a free or paid subscription. For less than the price of a cappuccino every month you get access to over 100 interviews, reviews, creative articles, podcasts and playlists PLUS exclusive content.It is difficult and scary being a new musical theatre writer. Creative (and romantic) duo Baker & Ryall took a look at what they needed to do in order to present their first show, Tasting Notes, and decided to become producers as well. In this Interview Charlie and Richard discuss their professional journey and offer some powerful insights into writing and producing new musical theatre. As creatives they have recognised that they are inspired by the bleaker and darker themes that inform so many great musicals. But rather than fight against these themes the duo have turned this recognition into a strength enabling them to truly focus on material that they are passionate about. During our conversation Richard also shared some great insights into the musical director's view of working on shows explaining why he looks to be led by text. And how to find your way into a show that you might not be convinced about.I am fascinated by Richard Baker & Charlie Ryall's focus on truly going after what they need. I asked Charlie why the duo tried to get new piece Hangover Square on at 54 Below in New York: was it to get the show in front of Broadway producers or just to prove that they could present their work in New York? -She replied “The latter and both!” Lesson: set yourself clear objectives and believe you can achieve them!How many of us, as creatives, set ourselves these kinds of goals? Baker & Ryall are not fabulously wealthy people that can drift around knocking on doors until something happens. Instead they need to make things happen in order to get their work seen: in order for their creative journey to make sense.Hangover Square by Baker&Ryall is at 54 Below on 19th September 2024. Book Tickets here: https://54below.org/events/new-musical-hangover-square-by-baker-ryall/You can follow Baker&Ryall on Instagram here: @bakerandryallListen the music from their first show Tasting Notes on Soundcloud here: https://soundcloud.com/tastingnotesldnThe JasonWard Creative Substack is a reader supported publication. A paid subscription gives you access to over 100 podcasts, playlists, articles, reviews and interviews with creatives and costs less than a cup of cappuccino per month! Get full access to The Jason Ward Creative Substack at jasonwardcreative.substack.com/subscribe

The Confidently Creative Podcast series is part of the JasonWard Creative Substack, a reader supported publication. Please consider taking out a subscription by clicking the button below. A paid subscription gives you full access to an archive of over 100 articles, reviews, interviews, podcasts and playlists as well as exclusive creative insights content. Enjoy the episode and Thank You for your time.There is so much to admire about Gus Gowland and his work. He is unusual in being a musical theatre writer from a working class background who writes shows and is passionate about helping others understand the genre. He is also fascinating to speak with as I discovered during our recent interview when we talked about his own work, the challenges those without money face trying to make a career in theatre and Gus' views on how long shows should run.Gus Gowland's three produced shows all look at very different situations but they share a common humanity.Pieces of String is about same sex relationships during World War 2 seen through the lens of a family discovering that their father/grandfather/husband had been in love with another man. The music in the show is beautifully layered and melodic which helps the show look at a grand theme from a very human perspective.Check out the wonderful Standing in the Shadows from the show's run at the Colchester Mercury Theatre.Mayflies which was produced at York Theatre Royal looks at what would happen if we slowed down our online dating. Using the life of a mayfly as a metaphor the show explores a couple who only communicate online for two years before meeting. It is also constructed to have a rotating cast so that the audience sees diverse dynamics depending on the age, gender or sexuality of each character. It is a very clever piece that got some great reviews - but also a couple of puzzling critiques which Gus addresses in our interview.Gowland's latest show is Candidates which is being produced by the GSA Conservatoire directed by Julian Woolford. It is based on Much Ado About Nothing but transported to a modern day US High School. The writer describes it as a bit of an homage to High School Musical and Mean Girls and talks about how exciting it is to work with the young talent at GSA.In our interview Gus talks about what he has learnt and how he deals with the frustrations of working in theatre. By sharing his experiences (good and bad) and offering well thought through and eloquent conclusions, Gus Gowland offers an insight into what it takes to be successful in musical theatre and inspires all who want to make it their life. To find out more about Gus Gowland and his work click here:https://www.gusgowland.comMuch of Gus Gowland's work including Mayflies is available on Apple Music here: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/gus-gowland/943840989Follow Gus on Instagram @gustopherjonesAnd check out his work and online classes on You Tube HereAnd if you want something special then check out Alice Fearn singing The Girl Next DoorGus Gowland's new book Contemporary British Musicals: ‘Out of the Darkness' is available from Bloomsbury hereThank you for listening and please consider taking out a subscription to The JasonWard Creative Substack which will help support my work. Get full access to The Jason Ward Creative Substack at jasonwardcreative.substack.com/subscribe

The JasonWard Creative Substack is a reader supported production. You can help by taking out a subscription which gives you access to over 100 articles, reviews, interviews, podcasts and playlists. Carley Varley is genuinely a good person. She worked hard to overcome her own shyness and lack of confidence by taking to the streets and busking. Once she started to achieve success Carley began helping other artists through online sessions on everything from songwriting to preparing your single for release and preserving your voice. On top of this she writes great pop songs!I first met her in 2018 when she was playing in my local pub and I soon booked her for corporate gigs at Carnival UK where I was working. Soon after I signed her up for Gary Barlow's 710 Club This was a new concept venue onboard P&O Cruises' Iona that Gary Barlow' was promoted as curating and my job was to find new singer songwriters to perform there. When Covid struck the project went out of the window but Carley continued to creatively and professionally develop. Her first singles sonically reveal all her early Swift and Sheeran influences coupled with Carley's trademark lyrical honesty. As her sound developed the honesty remained culminating in Envy which is a sophisticated song commenting on her treatment at the hands of a fellow female songwriter backstage at a gig. While Homesick finds her taking advantage of having a full band to rock out with in total teenage house party mode! Carley has an incredible support network from her family and her church. And it was the church that gave her the opportunity to express herself musically in the first place. This support is never taken for granted and I think this is why she is so keen on supporting others. This exposure to working with musicians and learning to understand how music works is one of the foundations for Carley Varley's success, first of all in writing great songs, and then in developing her sound from the acoustic singer songwriter genre into becoming front woman of a rock band. Her songs talk about honest feelings of love, confusion and sometimes rejection. They are never aggressive because Carley has a sense of self and her own morals that is deeply ingrained. What this offers the listener is a reflective and (that word again) honest examination of feelings and emotions. Carley Varley has set herself the joint objectives of headlining festivals and opening a cake shop in the New Forest on England's South Coast. I believe that she will achieve both! However, there is a second part to the ambition which demonstrates the kind of person she is more than anything else: when she talks about the cake shop, Carley says that a key element will be a space for young up and coming acoustic artists to play their music. As she says by helping others with their creativity we develop ourselves.To find out more about Carley Varley use her Linktree:Carley Varley LinktreeSongs Heard In This Episode:Envy - by Carley VarleyWon't Say Sorry by Carley VarleyHomesick by Carley VarleyAll incidental music in the episode was composed and recorded by Jason Ward. The episode was written, hosted and produced by Jason Ward in Ballydehob, West Cork Ireland.I hope you enjoyed this podcast. To support my work and get access to over 100 articles, reviews, interviews and podcasts please consider taking out a paid subscription. Many Thanks! Get full access to The Jason Ward Creative Substack at jasonwardcreative.substack.com/subscribe

Thank you for taking the time to read The JasonWard Creative Substack. I work across live entertainment creating, producing and managing for partners that have included theatres, major cruise lines, Disney, arts festivals, theatre producers and writers. I consult and mentor creatives at all stages of their journey and review new work in theatre, dance and the visual arts. I would love you to subscribe to my Substack and share your thoughts on my writingLast summer I went to see a brand new musical called Hugh written by two hilarious women: Susan Grant and Joni De Winter. The show features an original story about a play within a play and takes down some pretty sexist tropes from 90s romcoms. I was lucky to do some creative work with Susan and Joni during which we talked in depth about what the show is about - I call it ‘finding your big idea'Check out the original review HEREI love to see a work in progress and work that progresses. And since I saw the show, Hugh has progressed so much that Susan and Joni have already started work on their next project. I caught up with them a few weeks ago to record this podcast and found them in fine form. Their journey from (excellent) function band singers to inspired and inspiring musical theatre writers is a testament to their creativity and focus. In the interview they explain that they both have lives already full with jobs, families, and all that goes with that so the thought of holding it all together AND becoming theatre writers seemed to be totally unachievable. However, once they made a commitment to show up for their creativity things changed and Hugh was born. The point is that once they committed to the project they soon realised that they could write a show that people would pay to see. This became a virtuous circle and their own attitude to their creativity changed. Instead of giggling apologetically when telling people that they wrote a musical they now confidently assert that they are theatre writers. Which they are! Our conversation took place on a dark evening in January. Susan and Joni were relaxing in Joni's living room while elegantly sipping champagne and there was a lot of laughter. What struck me most was the openness and honesty that both women expressed about their personal and creative lives. They have come along way from crying on the floor in fear and desperation the night before their first performance. They regret nothing, have lots of experience to share and their advice for anyone considering starting a creative project is “Just F*****g DO IT!” Which is sound advice for all creatives!Find out more about Hugh The Musical hereFind out more about Belle Street Duo hereThank you for reading the JasonWard Creative Substack. I appreciate you spending your time here and if you would like to support my work then please consider taking out a free or paid subscription. You will have access to over 100 articles, interviews, playlists and podcasts. Many Thanks Jason Get full access to The Jason Ward Creative Substack at jasonwardcreative.substack.com/subscribe

Thank you for sharing your time with The JasonWard Creative Substack. If you enjoy my work then it would be great to welcome you to our community of subscribers. Free and paid options are available - just click below! Many Thanks JasonNew musical Savage is a story with a story. In this episode the show's originator Nicolette Blount talked about how writing the show became a journey to discover more about herself, her heritage and how indigenous people are treated by Broadway and US theatre in general. Savage is about Nicolette's great grandmother Mattie Owanda Hardwicke who, like Nicolette, is a proud member of the Chickasaw nation. After an early widowhood she went to perform in vaudeville as Wanda Savage in a sharp shooting act and then went to Hollywood where her skin and hair had to be lightened in order for her to work. Despite getting work, the movie dream turned sour and she wound up in brothel from where she turned her life around again - almost!By telling her story today, Savage looks at women's rights and opportunities in the 1920s and also allows us to draw our own conclusions about how opinions and prejudices around race, gender and skin colour continue to pervade our culture today.Nicolette's own story will inspire everyone who has experienced barriers to expressing their creativity. Nicolette is a 50 year old woman who has already brought up a family and now has written a show as and about an Indigenous or Native American person - a group who make up less than 1% of Broadway's legions of creatives, writers, performers and technicians. The issues around Native American representation in US theatre that Nicolette explains are thought provoking. Storytelling is an essential part of Native American culture which makes us question why that is not translated into theatre which is a storytelling art form.Above all, this episode tells a story of how a creative idea becomes a tangible reality. How a show moves from chords on a piano and lines on a notepad through workshops, and readings to full production, 54 Below and Broadway Shark Tank. As Nicolette says ‘ You need to take every opportunity you can'Enjoy the podcast and please let me know your thoughts. Many ThanksJason If you would like to learn more about Savage The Musical go to:https://savagethemusical.com/homeSongs from Savage feature in the podcast and the soundtrack is available on Apple Music and SpotifyThank you for reading and listening to the JasonWard Creative Substack. It would be great to welcome you to the ever growing community of subscribers with both free and paid subscription options available. Thank You Get full access to The Jason Ward Creative Substack at jasonwardcreative.substack.com/subscribe

Oklahoma had been seen as almost a sacred script in musical theatre. The show stands as the parent to modern musical theatre and always gives theatre companies the chance to get their cowboy costumes out and enjoy a good ole hoe down. For me, Oklahoma has been the show of my nightmares after having spent the first 6 months of drama school having to sing (and listen to other people sing) Oh What A Beautiful Morning in audition class.However, Director Daniel Fish took Oklahoma and sanded down the layers of lacquer and artifice that others have painted over the show. He revealed a dirty, truthful and sexy show about young people living in the middle of nowhere. They are coming to terms with themselves as adults as their land is coming to terms with itself as a country. New deeper meanings were revealed under the paint without changing a single word or song. Oklahoma had never been a show that I enjoyed but this production was a creative masterclass in how to dig down and find meaning in a theatre piece. This episode is from my Theatre Review Podcast series.Thank you for taking the time to listen. If you enjoyed this episode then I would love it if you could take a time to subscribe to the Jason Ward Creative Substack. Subscription is either free and or paid with over 100 articles, reviews, playlists and podcasts to enjoy with the latter option. I look forward to welcoming you in. Thank you Get full access to The Jason Ward Creative Substack at jasonwardcreative.substack.com/subscribe

This is a brand new show with a stellar cast and creative team. With names like Drew McOnie and Zizi Strallen you know it should be worth seeing.Check out the review to find out if this show is as hot and sweet as it sounds!Thank you for listening. This post is public so feel free to share it. Get full access to The Jason Ward Creative Substack at jasonwardcreative.substack.com/subscribe

Thank you for taking the time to listen to this episode. This interview is one of my favourites with the incredible creative director and burlesque performer Lucy Ryan. I loved recording the interview and it was only afterwards when I listened back that I realised how much creative insight and wisdom Lucy had shared. Whether you are female, male or non-binary, a performer, painter or producer -if you are passionate about creating your art and getting it to an audience then I am sure this interview will inspire you. The headline comes from something Lucy said in the interview that what she has learned during her career is to Be Unashamedly Yourself. I hope you enjoy the interview and please help me continue this work by subscribing to The Jason Ward Creative Substack which is currently free of charge! Subscription will give you access to over 100 articles, podcasts and playlists full of creative inspiration and insight!Next month Lucy Ryan will be taking her alter ego, Ivy Paige, and the show An Evening of Burlesque into the West End. I spoke with Lucy a few months ago while she was creating a new show for Edinburgh and continuing to work on An Evening of Burlesque. She is an incredible creative who understands the power of Burlesque as something beyond titillation (although it is also that) and continues to develop a character and narrative based form through her character Ivy Paige. Onstage as Ivy, Lucy knows how to control and guide the audience. She also strives to make Burlesque a place that is welcoming and inclusive which somehow seems counter intuitive but blossoms into reality in her shows. While many might point to the diversity of the cast in the show as an indication of inclusivity, I believe that is has more to do with Lucy's view that Burlesque is more about how we reveal rather than what we show. Encouraging the use of imagination still has a place in Burlesque!To check out my review of An Evening of Burlesque click here:Celebrating How We RevealTo find out more about An Evening of Burlesque in London click here:An Evening of Burlesque West EndTo find out more about An Evening of Burlesque in Dublin click here:An Evening of Burlesque DublinI would love you to share this episode with your networks and subscribers Get full access to The Jason Ward Creative Substack at jasonwardcreative.substack.com/subscribe

A Swedish man ends up playing Princess Diana - how does that happen? Writer, Performer, Director and Producer Linus Karp is currently on tour with his solo piece Diana, the Untold and Untrue Story. We had a great chat in March 2023 about what inspires his work, what he might do next and the importance of not trying to second guess an audience. We also talked about gender identity, drag queen story times and how Linus creative work was inspired by a lockdown playreading club. This is a fascinating interview with a creative who believes in his own identity and draws on that identity to create work that is unique and successful.  You can catch Linus on tour with Diana, The Untold and Untrue Story on tour in the UK until May 2023 heading to Poole, Belfast, London, Cardiff, Penzance and Norwich and then in August at the Edinburgh Fringe. Look out for Awkward Productions' regular quiz nights at The Two Brewers pub in Clapham https://www.the2brewers.com/london Follow Awkard Productions:  Instagram @awkwardprods  Facebook AwkwardProductions To make the show possible and book tickets- you can support the Awkard Productions crowdfunder: Crowdfunder and tickets: linktr.ee/untruediana   Subscription to The Confidently Creative Podcast is currently free    Thank you for listening and please like, share and leave me a review. Socials: INSTA @jasonwardcreative TikTok @jasoncreativedirector Twitter @ConfCreative   To contact me directly for support with your creative project or practise  jasonwardcreative@gmail.com                                              Thank you for listening Get full access to The Jason Ward Creative Substack at jasonwardcreative.substack.com/subscribe

Matthew Bourne's Sleeping Beauty is a dark, Gothic and sexy piece. In this quickfire episode I look at what we can learn as creatives from the show with these 5 Big Creative Takeaways Get The Story Right For YouTell The Hell Out Of Your StoryInvest in Your Future TalentSex is not the same as PornRespect traditions but don't be limited by them The show gives new impetus and life to the age old story and 130 year old ballet. I saw it at a packed Mayflower Theatre in Southampton and loved it!New Adventures' Sleeping Beauty is touring until May 2023. To find out more use this link:https://new-adventures.net/sleeping-beauty#overviewTo get in touch with me for support with your creative project or practise please drop me a line at:jasonwardcreative@gmail.comFollow me on Instagram for insights, info and inspiration @jasonwardcreativeTikTok @jasoncreativedirector Subscribe Now To The JasonWard Creative Substack Get full access to The Jason Ward Creative Substack at jasonwardcreative.substack.com/subscribe

The Cher Show is touring the UK right now. There is an amazing cast and some high profile creatives working on this show - but does it all come together?  Check out the review and let me know if you agree   Follow me on Instagram for insights, information and inspiration @jasonwardcreative TikTok @jasoncreativedirector Contact me directly for support with your creative project or practise jasonwardcreative@gmail.com Check out my YouTube Channel @jasonwardcreative8529   You Can Subscribe Free of Charge to The CONFIDENTLY CREATIVE Podcast Get full access to The Jason Ward Creative Substack at jasonwardcreative.substack.com/subscribe

Entertainment professionals in the Tributes market need this episode. With an analysis of how the market developed, where we are now and what the future holds - I will help you understand and make the most of this exciting sector and get ready to profit creatively and commercially from change.  A couple of years ago I did some research for a client on the state of the UK tributes market. At that time there were over 1000 Abba tributes working in the country - charging between £130 a night up to £5000 a night.  As a business person looking at this from outside you would probably think that if rates are that low then I need to get out of this market! I think this market will change and, when it does it will be quick - find out why! Let me know what you think of the episode.  And if you would like me to speak at your event or you need support with your creative business drop me a line  jasonwardcreative@gmail.com Follow me on Instagram @jasonwardcreative TikTok @jasoncreativedirector YouTube @jasonwardcreative8529                                             Thank you for listening                    Subscription to The CONFIDENTLY CREATIVE Podcast                                                 Is Free of Charge Get full access to The Jason Ward Creative Substack at jasonwardcreative.substack.com/subscribe

Affectionate, funny, and camp are all words to describe Noele Gordon who was the UK's favourite actress throughout the 60s. 70s and early 80s.  Find out how good this Russell T Davies written mini-series is and should you be checking out Follow me on Instagram for insights, information and inspiration @jasonwardcreative TikTok @jasoncreativedirector Contact me directly for support with your creative project or practise jasonwardcreative@gmail.com Check out my YouTube Channel @jasonwardcreative8529   You Can Subscribe Free of Charge to The CONFIDENTLY CREATIVE Podcast Get full access to The Jason Ward Creative Substack at jasonwardcreative.substack.com/subscribe

This is my Big 5 Creative Takeaways from the Rihanna Apple Music Superbowl Halftime Show.  In under two minutes you will discover 5 Powerful tips that will help take your creativity to the next level!   Check out the Halftime Show here:   https://youtu.be/HjBo--1n8lI   Follow me in Instagram for insights, info and inspiration: @jasonwardcreative TikTok: @jasoncreativedirector   Check out my YouTube Channel @jasonwardcreative8529   Contact me directly jasonwardcreative@gmail.com Subscribe Free of Charge to The CONFIDENTLY CREATIVE Podcast       Get full access to The Jason Ward Creative Substack at jasonwardcreative.substack.com/subscribe

Nightclubs, Secret Cinema, Live Creativity and Jewish Theatre - its all in this fascinating chat with Creative Director Kieron Chissik. We talk about his journey into live cinema and how his creative process is shaped by both the project and the personnel. And we discover how Kieron's Great Grandmother was an early member of the Yiddish Theatre working with Franz Kafka in Europe before coming to the UK as a refugee. And how does a mixed Jewish and Scottish heritage inform and influence Kieron's creativity today?This is a fascinating story and an indepth look into an incredibly visionary creative mindKieron is Creative Director of The Cabinet of Living Cinema. To find out more about his work and touring shows use this link: https://thecabinetoflivingcinema.org.uk/ ENCHANTED CINEMA TOUR TICKETS PLEASE NOTE: There is some unavoidable static on parts of this audio track and I hope this will not lessen your enjoyment of the episodeYou can follow me on:Instagram: @jasonwardcreativeTikTok: @jasoncreativedirectorContact me for support or speaking engagements: jasonwardcreative@gmail.com   Get full access to The Jason Ward Creative Substack at jasonwardcreative.substack.com/subscribe

Tor Byrnes talks to me about her journey from hospitality to creativity. From running and organising nights out to creating and curating venue programmes, shows and Festivals including the massive Arts By The Sea Festival in Bournemouth which attracts over 150,000 people. Tor has her own promotion company called We Broke Free and works tirelessly to support live music and good times across England. She chats about her work, what inspires her and why Debbie Harry is her biggest creative influence. If you have been waiting to step into the creative life or want to get some amazing music events going in your area - then this is the podcast that will inspire you to start!Tor's Contacts are:Instagram @we_broke_free or @tordaforceYou can follow me atInsta: @jasonwardcreativeTwitter @ConfCreativeTikTok @jasoncreativedirectorIf you need support with your creative project or would like me to speak at your event;jasonwardcreative@gmail.com                                    THANK YOU FOR LISTENING Get full access to The Jason Ward Creative Substack at jasonwardcreative.substack.com/subscribe

What influences, drives and inspires an award winning Creative Producer. From producing online dance shows during lockdown to winning entertainment production contracts with National Brands Sophia's journey is an inspiration to anyone who wants to build a successful creative business.  She talks about how she stopped doing everything in order to focus on what her creative business needed but also so she could focus time on her self and her own development.  There are shout outs to some incredible people who have inspired her along the way including Natalie Dawson, Steve Donnelly and CEO of TAG Live Andy Mills-Brown  If you want to know how to take your creative business to the next level then you need to listen to this episode!   Find out more about Sophisticated Entertainment here; https://www.sophisticatedentertainment.com   Remember you can subscribe to  The CONFIDENTLY CREATIVE Podcast for free  Please like, share and leave me a review   You can contact me directly for creative support jasonwardcreative@gmail.com   Follow me on Instagram and TikTok for regular tips, insights and inspiration Insta @jasonwardcreative TT: @jasoncreativedirector     Get full access to The Jason Ward Creative Substack at jasonwardcreative.substack.com/subscribe

This episode will help you understand how to ensure all the layers of your project are serving your creative concept and introduce you to the concept of getting all your rivers running to the same ocean! The essence of every creative concept should be simple but that doesn't mean that every project should be simple. However, when we start to add layers we need to make sure that we recognise the difference between COMPLEX and COMPLICATED.  Intrigued? You will be - especially when we start discussing West Side Story and the Michelle Obama musical (which we might write!) Please like, share and subscribe to The Confidently Creative Podcast  If you would like personal support with your creative project or creative practise or would like me to speak about creativity at your event please contact me directly at jasonwardcreative@gmail.com Follow me for tips, insights and inspiration: Instagram @jasonwardcreative TikTok    @jasoncreativedirector YouTube @jasonwardcreative8529       Get full access to The Jason Ward Creative Substack at jasonwardcreative.substack.com/subscribe

Composer and musician Matt Park tells us how he successfully created electronic music project Bite The Boxer. The band has been gaining attention, plaudits and plays on the BBC Introducing series and Matt has a unique take on the creative process which I found fascinating and am very keen to share with you. Matt discusses musical influences from David Bowie and T-Rex through to indie pop and trip hop and learn how setting yourself limitations and challenges can be key to creating exceptional work. This episode includes excerpts from Bite the Boxer's music including the tracks: Kohaku Underwater Summer of Everything Time Stands Still Forgotten To listen and download more of Bite The Boxer's music click on these links: facebook.com/bitetheboxer instagram.com/bitetheboxer BTB Videos on Youtube Listen on Spotify   This interview is based on an interview in my Arts and Culture Matters Column which appears in DorsetBiz News   If you would like support with your creative project or would like me to speak at your event please contact me at jasonwardcreative@gmail.com   You can follow me; Instagram @jasonwardcreative TikTok @jasoncreativedirector www.jasonwardcreative.com Get full access to The Jason Ward Creative Substack at jasonwardcreative.substack.com/subscribe

The creative process has always fascinated people! How often, as creatives, do we get asked how we thought of something or told “I would never have thought of that” I love it when I see how people put creative work together in new or unexpected ways and wish that I had thought of that! Likewise we have all seen work that we might like but then there is a moment that we have thought ‘Oh they didn't think that through…” Which, as we shall see, might actually be true! So what is the the Creative Process? It is a series of identifiable steps that are taken in the process of creating something - which could be a painting, a show, a ballet, a song, a building or even a new product.  In this episode we look at the Four Step Creative Process and give you insights that will help you understand better how your own process and empower you to become even more creative! If you need support with your creative project or would like me to speak at your event please drop me a line at jasonwardcreative@gmail.com Follow me on Instagram for tips, insights and inspiration @jasonwardcreative Follow me on TikTok @jasoncreativedirector Please like, share and leave me a comment. Get full access to The Jason Ward Creative Substack at jasonwardcreative.substack.com/subscribe

This special episode is all about helping you to make 2023 Your Most Successful Creative Year Ever! I have filled it up with high value insights, ideas and information that will inspire your creative success all year!  From stepping out of your comfort zone to using you creative time more effectively there is plenty here to inspire you and make you think about how you can achieve even more creative success.  Whether you are writing a novel, putting together a cabaret show or working on a sculpture series I think you will find these ideas useful and inspiring and I would love to know how they work for you - so please share your successes and remember If you need support with your creative projects or would like me to speak at your event please send me an email - jasonwardcreative@gmail.com   Follow me inInstagram for tips, insights and inspiration @jasonwardcreative TikTok @jasoncreativedirector LinkedIN linkedin.com/in/jason-ward-creative   Get full access to The Jason Ward Creative Substack at jasonwardcreative.substack.com/subscribe

Are you a Cabaret Artist or Guest Entertainer who wants to take your show to the next level? Then this is the episode for you because share with you some really valuable insights that will help you take your existing show to new commercial and creative success AND help those of you just starting out to create the best and most commercially successful show possible. Everything in this episode is based on my experience creatively directing live shows for the winners of TV talent shows, from auditioning, booking and directing cruise performers and managing a booking team that issued over 8000 entertainer contracts a year. I also work to support new performers, producers, writers and creatives around the world. If you would like individual or specialist support after the show just drop me an email at jasonwardcreative@gmail.com There are FIVE KEY AREAS to consider when creating and developing a Cabaret or Guest Entertainer Show; 1. Your Show Is A Product - Think about it in the 3rd person  2.What Is Your Show About -  Audiences engage when they know what your show is about. It could be your journey, your world view or what inspires you. 3.Structure Your Show - Start with the classic musical theatre structure described by Jack Viertel in The Secret Life Of The American Musical; https://www.amazon.co.uk/Secret-Life-American-Musical-Broadway/dp/0374536899 4. Communicate Your Show - Work on crafting a one liner that describes your show to bookers (and to you!) 5. Next Steps - Look at ways to commercialise your show that will allow you to explore other opportunities   Please like and share the show and I would love to hear your feedback. Follow me on Instagram for tips, insights and inspiration @jasonwardcreative TikTok @jasoncreativedirector LinkedIN linkedin.com/in/jason-ward-creative Get full access to The Jason Ward Creative Substack at jasonwardcreative.substack.com/subscribe

As a creative you need to know if you are a Dreamer or a Doer! In all business and creative projects there are two different but complementary personality types that are needed for success; Dreamers and Doers  Each of these personality types has skill sets that we all need to master in order to develop our creative projects and take our practises and businesses forward.  But in order to master them we need to be aware of our own strengths and weaknesses as either Dreamers or Doers In this episode we will learn how where we each sit on the scale and how to use this information to develop our strengths and discover our opportunities and achieve a whole lot more creative success. We look at the amazing Dreamer / Doer partnership between Roy and Walt Disney and use that to better understand what we can do to grow. If you need support with your creative project or would like me to speak at your event please just send me an email to jasonwardcreative@gmail.com You can follow me on Instagram for tips, insights and inspiration @jasonwardcreative TikTok @jasoncreativedirector   Confidently Creative is a JasonWardCreative Production written, produced, hosted and with all music by Jason Ward   Get full access to The Jason Ward Creative Substack at jasonwardcreative.substack.com/subscribe

Do you want to make sure that every pitch you deliver is the outstanding? This episode will help you craft that right story, build the most effective structure and deliver the clearest message. Built on experience pitching and being pitched to I share a whole lot of real world experience. I give you my TOP THREE TIPS FOR A PERFECT PITCH and answer some frequently asked questions The good news is that we are going to use our creative story telling talents BUT we are also going to learn why we need to open with our big finish  STEP ONE: What is your Pitch About - being clear with your message STEP TWO: Define your Audience - How to connect with a variety of stakeholders STEP THREE: Put your Big Message first - how to lead with your finale and then use story to support it FAQS: How to avoid using the ordinary to sell How much information to include How to make your pitch accessible to as many people as possibl Follow me on Instagram for tips, insights,and inspiration @jasonwardcreative If you need support with your creative project or would like me to speak at your event please get in touch: jasonwardcreative@gmail.com Please like, share and subscribe to The CONFIDENTLY CREATIVE Podcast Thank You For Listening   www.jasonwardcreative.com   Get full access to The Jason Ward Creative Substack at jasonwardcreative.substack.com/subscribe

As a creative do you use your storytelling skills to sell your product, service or brand? Too often as creatives we are not sure how to use creativity as part of the sales process so I am going to show you a wonderful example of how this works and some great tips to help you do the same. The episode is called What's Your Story and it was inspired by a homeware and antiques store in Brooklyn called The Six Bells oened last year by the incredibly successful Audrey Gelman. We are going to look at how we create and tell the stories about our work and brand - and why this is important I always work with my consultancy clients on refining their elevator pitch - getting that explanation of what they do down to a simple one liner that helps them achieve clarity for themselves and their customers, clients and audience. But today we are going to super size our elevator pitch into a whole story. There are two creative exercises for you to try out that will help you create and develop your story. This will give you more clarity and also help you explain what you do with an authentic, compelling and creative story. To learn more about The Six Bells and to complete the first exercise click on the link: https://bit.ly/3AtsWHO This episode was inspired by an article I read in Vanity Fair about entrepreneur Audrey Gelman and her store The Six Bells. This is the link to the original story by Emily Jane Fox: https://bit.ly/3x5Z4AL If you would like support with your creative business or with getting creativity into your business contact me directly at: jasonwardcreative@gmail.com Please like, share and subscribe to The CONFIDENTLY CREATIVE Podcast Follow me on Instagram for regular tips, insights and inspiration @jasonwardcreative www.jasonwardcreative.com   Get full access to The Jason Ward Creative Substack at jasonwardcreative.substack.com/subscribe

Your Creative Decision Making process is an important tool in developing your practise and your business. Whether you are creating shows, art, music, literature or are an entertainer this episode helps you look at how you make the decisions that affect your creative output.  . I am going to help you enhance your Creative Decision Making process to ensure that what you create is authentically you, is attractive to an audience and commercially valuable. You will learn how understanding your passions and using them in your creativity will give you a USP, add value to what you do and help you charge better rates. If you need creative support with your project or would like me to speak at your event please drop me a line jasonwardcreative@gmail.com Check out the Visual Version on YouTube: CREATIVE DECISION MAKING Please like, share and subscribe to The CONFIDENTLY CREATIVE Podcast Follow me on Instagram for regular tips, insights and inspiration @jasonwardcreative Follow me on TikTok @jasoncreativedirector Get full access to The Jason Ward Creative Substack at jasonwardcreative.substack.com/subscribe

All creatives, entertainers and artists need to listen to this episode! Because we often risk our creativity being used by someone else so we look at how sharing creative credit can make us more Confident in our Creativity.  You have probably heard it when people accept awards and then make speeches thanking their colleagues, their family, the Director, the Academy, their hairdresser, their dog's hairdresser …etc We might laugh at how many people are being thanked and sometimes we might even think that it is a bit over done BUT ... Sharing creative credit helps us to  build and demonstrate creative confidence. This is because when we share the credit  the world sees us as more confident and we actually become more confident. We build more self knowledge and understanding of when we need help - We can only recognise the creative help that we need when we are also clear about our own strengths and weaknesses. So recognising that we might need a fellow creative or creatives to help us allows us to focus on our strengths and utilise other visions and skills that we might not have Every creative has experienced the sensation of having creative credit taken by someone else so I look at ways to help us cope with that situation as well as helping you to understand how sharing creative credit will help you become a more in demand, successful and confident creative. The episode is inspired by an article I read by Amy Gallo called How To Respond When Someone Takes Credit for your Work which appeared in The Harvard Business Review. You can find the original article here: http://bit.ly/3VTplfe Please feel free to get in touch if you need creative support or would like me to speak at your event.  jasonwardcreative@gmail.com You can follow me on Instagram @jasonwardcreative linkedin.com/in/jason-ward-creative   Get full access to The Jason Ward Creative Substack at jasonwardcreative.substack.com/subscribe

The Festive Season is the Most Wonderful Time of The Year and there really is nothing better for many people than simply having a wonderful Christmastime. However, with so much of this time of year dominated by nostalgia the question for us as creatives is how do we take a fresh look at our traditions and offer something new and attractive?  In this episode I'm going to show you why these FIVE strong tips will help you create beautiful, emotionally connecting and celebratory Seasonal Experiences. 1.Traditions  2.Place  3. Story  4. It can never be TOO festive! 5. Always bring people together!  I recently created a brand new Yuletide celebration for the historic town  of Christchurch in the South of England. I used traditional characters, woodland magic,and legends for the concept and worked with live music, choirs, community groups and the incredible outdoor theatre company Gobbledegook to create and produce a brand new tradition - check out the links below to discover more: Christchurch Yuletide Festival https://www.yuletidefestival.co.uk/ Gobbledegook Theatre https://www.gobbledegooktheatre.com/ Stir Events https://www.eventsbystir.co.uk/ Enjoy your festive season, whatever you might celebrate, and if you would like support with your creative project or would like me to speak at your event then please contact me directly at jasonwardcreative@gmail.com You can follow me on Instagram for regular tips, insights and inspiration @jasonwardcreative Or get in touch on LinkedIn linkedin.com/in/jason-ward-creative   Get full access to The Jason Ward Creative Substack at jasonwardcreative.substack.com/subscribe

This quick bite episode is super concentrated and will help you gain even more clarity about what your creative business does. This will help you communicate more effectively with clients, customers and audiences.  As you create more work you will be equipped to better assess the potential of what you are creating.  Subscription to Confidently Creative is totally free - sponsorship is welcome! Please let me know how much you are enjoying the show and feel free to share the episode far and wide. Look out for details on brand new Confidently Creative community events by following me on Instagram @jasonwardcreative Or contact me directly if you would like specific support with your creative business. jason@jasonwardcreative.com   www.jasonwardcreative.com Get full access to The Jason Ward Creative Substack at jasonwardcreative.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode we talk about one of the trickiest subjects that all creatives face - SHOULD WE EVER WORK FOR FREE! My main objective is to make sure that you have the right information to help you make an informed choice about when and why you might work for free. Please don't panic if you have been asked to work for free because it has happened to everyone from those just starting out right up to Hollywood superstars. This episode covers FIVE main areas to help you make more informed and confident choices: Define your benefits order of priority - is it money, promo, fulfilment? If there is no material rewards then make sure you are working on your own terms Work out if you are being asked to form a fair creative partnership or does it feel like an unfair business relationship? Value your free time because this supports your mental well being which will support your creativity Define your favours early on in the process  Remember subscription to Confidently Creative is free and sponsors are always welcome! Please let me know your thoughts by leaving a review and feel free to share the podcast so we can positively help as many creatives as possible Follow me on Instagram for regular insights, tips and inspiration @jasonwardcreative   Contact me directly: jasonwardcreative@gmail.com Please like, share and subscribe to The CONFIDENTLY CREATIVE Podcast   www.jasonwardcreative.com Get full access to The Jason Ward Creative Substack at jasonwardcreative.substack.com/subscribe

 FIVE PRACTICAL TIPS to help all creatives, entertainers and artists  focus your creative work on the people who will love and value it the most. We talk about how the slogan “Something For Everyone” could be hampering the creative and commercial development of your business because as an audience member or customer I want you to give me something for me! We look at how Disney Theme Parks and TEDTalks both achieved huge success by focusing on specific audience groups and how we can use their lessons to help us succeed. Once you know who your audience is your work will become simpler and more rewarding! jasonwardcreative@gmail.com   Please like, share and subscribe to The CONFIDENTLY CREATIVE Podcast   Follow me on Instagram for regular tips, insights and inspiration: @jasonwardcreative   www.jasonwardcreative.com Get full access to The Jason Ward Creative Substack at jasonwardcreative.substack.com/subscribe

Creative Vision is so important for creatives, entertainers and artists because a clear Creative Vision will benefit your Creative Practise and Creative Business  In this episode I look at the work of some of my Creative Heroes: Kate Bush, Stephen Sondheim and David Bowie. I draw on their experience and success to help you discover and develop your own Creative Vision. This episode was inspired by the resurgence in popularity of Kate Bush after featuring in Stranger Things.  This led me to look at her body of work together with Bowie and Sondheim to better understand how Creative Vision is not static but a constantly evolving force. If you would like individual support please email me: jasonwardcreative@gmail.com Please like, share and subscribe to The CONFIDENTLY CREATIVE Podcast   Instagram @jasonwardcreative www.jasonwardcreative.com Get full access to The Jason Ward Creative Substack at jasonwardcreative.substack.com/subscribe

Do you want to take your creative business to the next level? If you are a creative, an entertainer or an artist these are the 5 most important actions that you can take to grow your successful creative business? The episode is full of super concentrated high value information that will help you get your creative business to the next level. These FIVE TIPS will help you start, build and develop your creative business: Start with the WHY not the WHAT Make a Plan Talk To People Solve Don't Sell Let Your Creativity Lead   Everything is based on real world consultancy experience that has proven to be successful for creative companies at all stages of their development.   If you need personalised support with your Creative Business please email me directly at jasonwardcreative@gmail.com Follow me on Instagram for creative tips, insights and inspiration @jasonwardcreative tiktok @jasoncreativedirector www.jasonwardcreative. Please like, share and subscribe The Confidently Creative Podcast    Thank you for listening     Get full access to The Jason Ward Creative Substack at jasonwardcreative.substack.com/subscribe

Using our creativity to build a brand and sell more is a big ask for most of us. That is why I wanted to share this episode all about a group of creatives who have been challenged to do exactly that. The Drop is a great new show on BBC IPlayer presented by R&B legend Miguel and the wonderful Clara Amfo. The show teaches all of us creative entrepreneurs some wonderful lessons about how to make our businesses better.   A group of seriously talented streetwear designers have to not only make great clothes but have to express their creativity and values through stand out branding. I help you discover how expressing your creative values in your work will attract you the audience you want and help you earn more from your creativity. But first you have to establish what your values are!! Please drop me a line with any feedback you may have or if you would like more personalised support.  jasonwardcreative@gmail.com   Remember to like, share and subscribe to The CONFIDENTLY CREATIVE Podcast   You can follow me on Instagram for daily tips and creative inspiration @jasonwardcreative   www.jasonwardcreative.com Get full access to The Jason Ward Creative Substack at jasonwardcreative.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode I am giving all creatives, entertainers and artists ONE SIMPLE HACK that will help you gain a whole load of creative time.  Just by making a slight change to your mindset you will look at your daily tasks in a more productive way. I call it getting in your boss headspace and once you do it you will find yourself with so much more time to be creative. This method has been hugely successful with my creative consultancy clients and I hope the information I share will be as useful to you as it is to them! If you want to know more about it then please contact me directly  jasonwardcreative@gmail.com And remember to like, share and subscribe The Confidently Creative Podcast You can follow me on Instagram for daily tips and creative inspiration @jasonwardcreative   www.jasonwardcreative.com Get full access to The Jason Ward Creative Substack at jasonwardcreative.substack.com/subscribe

Sam Ryder is an immensely talented singer songwriter who had one of 2022's biggest hits with the epic song Spaceman. The story of how he became the UK's musical hero teaches all of us the importance of using  hard facts and data to support our delivery of incredible creative solutions.  Solving Not Selling will help you look at how you develop both the commercial and creative sides of your business. For tailored support with your creative business please drop me a line; jasonwardcreative@gmail.com   Remember to like, share and subscribe to The CONFIDENTLY CREATIVE Podcast Follow me on Instagram @jasonwardcreative www.jasonwardcreative.com Check out more of Sam Ryder's work at: www.sam-ryder.com @samhairwolfryder   Get full access to The Jason Ward Creative Substack at jasonwardcreative.substack.com/subscribe