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3 episodes with Drury Lane
2 episodes with Drury Lane
Mark and Jack discuss Disclosure Day, the new Spielberg film that raises some big questions. Not least: who's right?Other films and people mentioned in this episode:Disclosure DayJawsJurassic ParkJurassic WorldIndiana JonesX-FilesStar WarsRoswellClose Encounters of the Third KindJosh O'ConnorArrivalThe Butterfly EffectDonnie DarkoKurt VonnegutMission ImpossibleBeggars of LifeWallace BeeryJodie FosterMatthew McConaugheySilent RunningDoug TrumbullWith thanks to Richard Gay and The Sun Pub on London's Drury Lane.Kermode on Film is an HLA Agency productionProduced by Hedda Lornie Archbold and Nicki Glossop© HLA Agency Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Mark Kermode and Jack Howard talk about indie horror movies BACKROOMS and OBSESSION taking the box office by storm.Other films mentioned in this episode:TogetherKeeperHellraiserNightbreedCitizen KaneEvil DeadBooksmartSuperbadThe DramaVideodromeThe ExorcistHereditaryWeaponsStar Wars: The Mandalorian and GroguWith thanks to Richard Gay and The Sun Pub on London's Drury Lane.Kermode on Film is an HLA Agency productionProduced by Hedda Lornie Archbold and Nicki Glossop© HLA Agency Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Part 2 of Mark Kermode and Jack Howard talking about Christopher Nolan's films at The Sun Pub on Drury Lane.Films and books mentioned in this episode:TenetThe PrestigeInterstellarThe OdysseyInceptionOppenheimerInsomniaBatman TrilogyRay Harryhausen's Sinbad MoviesThe DevilsMetropolisTrainspottingThe Passion of ChristThe Death of StalinTroyMinionsBooks:A Hard Day's Night by Samira AhmedMark Kermode's Surround Sound: The Stories of Movie Music by Mark Kermode and Jenny NelsonKermode on Film is an HLA Agency productionProduced by Hedda Lornie Archbold and Nicki Glossop© HLA Agency Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
While Eastern theaters staged plays depicting Mormons as bloodthirsty polygamists, Brigham Young was building a Drury Lane replica in the Utah desert. It would go on to host Oscar Wilde, the Barrymore family across four generations, and Brigham Young’s own son performing in drag to packed houses. It was the most ambitious act of cultural …
While Eastern theaters staged plays depicting Mormons as bloodthirsty polygamists, Brigham Young was building a Drury Lane replica in the Utah desert. It would go on to host Oscar Wilde, the Barrymore family across four generations, and Brigham Young’s own son performing in drag to packed houses. It was the most ambitious act of cultural …
Mark Kermode & Jack Howard meet at their regular London pub to record a spoiler-laden episode on The Drama, starring Robert Pattinson & Zendaya: dark, funny, and deeply uncomfortable.With thanks to Richard Gay and to The Sun Pub in London's Drury Lane.Kermode on Film is an HLA Agency productionProduced by Hedda Lornie Archbold© HLA Agency Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
But WHY didn't they like it?Mark Kermode and Jack Howard re-watched EYES WIDE SHUT and get together in their regular Sun Pub in London's Drury Lane to talk about Kubrick's 1999 film starring Nicole Kidman and Tom Cruise.With thanks to Richard Gay and to The Sun Pub in London's Drury Lane.Kermode on Film is an HLA Agency productionProduced by Hedda Lornie Archbold© HLA Agency Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Mark Kermode and Jack Howard Re-watched EYES WIDE SHUT and get together in their regular Sun Pub in London's Drury Lane to talk about Kubrick's 1999 film starring Nicole Kidman and Tom Cruise.With thanks to Richard Gay.And to The Sun Pub in London's Drury Lane.Kermode on Film is an HLA Agency productionProduced by Hedda Lornie Archbold© HLA Agency Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Mark Kermode and Jack Howard get together in The Sun Pub in London's Drury Lane to discuss PROJECT HAIL MARY and Ryan Gosling.Also, Bruce Dern in SILENT RUNNING.With thanks to Richard Gay.And to The Sun Pub in London's Drury Lane.Kermode on Film is an HLA Agency productionProduced by Hedda Lornie Archbold© HLA Agency Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Tom Major (Rodney in Only Fools & Horses) co-hosts The West End Frame Show! Tom joins Andrew Tomlins (West End Frame's Editor) to discuss Jamie Muscato's concert (Theatre Royal Drury Lane) as well as the latest news about Love Never Dies, Lea Michele, Ride the Cyclone and more. Tom made his professional debut as Rodney in Only Fools and Horses on tour and at the Eventim Apollo. Over Christmas he played Prince Charming in Cinderella at the Richmond Theatre directed by Gary WilmotTom trained at ArtsEd where he played Rodger in Rent and also sang in the choir for Pippin at Drury Lane and for the Olivier Awards at the Royal Albert Hall.Follow Tom on Instagram: @tommajorr This podcast is hosted by Andrew Tomlins. @AndrewTomlins32 Thanks for listening!Email: andrew@westendframe.co.ukVisit westendframe.co.uk for more info about our podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
It was the Oscars.But Mark and Jack didn't want to talk about the Oscars. Instead, Jack convinces Mark that The Pirates of the Caribbean is actually Good.With thanks to Richard Gay, and to The Sun Pub in London's Drury Lane.Kermode on Film is an HLA Agency production© HLA Agency Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
On Sunday, London's theatregoers had the unique opportunity to see two different musicals, both offering insight into the backstory of the sea witch from the Little Mermaid.One of these was Unfortunate, a parody musical Mickey-Jo first enjoyed at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe which is currently playing at the Other Palace Theatre, and the other was Sea Witch, a brand new musical in concert receiving its world premiere at Theatre Royal, Drury Lane.Stay tuned to find out what Mickey-Jo thought of each show and whether either of them held water...check out my brand new substack newsletter:www.mickeyjotheatre.substack.com•00:00 | introduction02:55 | Unfortunate11:56 | performances / creative choices19:31 | Sea Witch26:42 | further problems 32:33 | conclusion About Mickey-Jo:As one of the leading voices in theatre criticism on a social platform, Mickey-Jo is pioneering a new medium for a dwindling field. His YouTube channel: MickeyJoTheatre is the largest worldwide in terms of dedicated theatre criticism, where he also share features, news and interviews as well as lifestyle content for over 95,000 subscribers. With a viewership that is largely split between the US and the UK he has been fortunate enough to be able to work with PR, Marketing, and Social Media representatives for shows in New York, London, Edinburgh, Hamburg, Toronto, Sao Pãolo, and Paris. His reviews and features have also been published by WhatsOnStage, for whom he was a panelist to help curate nominees for their 2023 and 2024 Awards as well as BroadwayWorldUK, Musicals Magazine and LondonTheatre.co.uk. Instagram/TikTok/X: @MickeyJoTheatre Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Mark Kermode and Jack Howard get together in their regular to discuss whether Vince Gilligan's series PLURIBUS is the best series of the year, and also talk about his previous series, BREAKING BAD and BETTER CALL SAUL.With thanks to Richard Gay. and to The Sun Pub in London's Drury Lane.Kermode on Film is an HLA Agency production© HLA Agency Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Mark Kermode and Jack Howard get together in their regular pub and discuss last Monday's BAFTAs and the upcoming Oscars, and a whole lot more.With thanks to Ciaran O'Brien and to The Sun Pub in London's Drury Lane.Kermode on Film is an HLA Agency production© HLA Agency Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
If we could but look into the seeds of time...
Less than a year after it arrived in the West End, it has been announced that Disney's HERCULES will conclude its run in London.This perhaps surprising news has invited speculation as to why the popular show is ending so soon, and which show might be next at Theatre Royal, Drury Lane?Is this the soon to be announced West End home of THE GREATEST SHOWMAN, or is Broadway going to be that musical's next destination after its Bristol world premiere?Check out Mickey-Jo's thoughts in this theatre news recap...•00:00 | introduction02:34 | Hercules closing 07:14 | why is it closing?11:22 | The Greatest Showman 16:14 | something else?21:44 | Hercules' futureAbout Mickey-Jo:As one of the leading voices in theatre criticism on a social platform, Mickey-Jo is pioneering a new medium for a dwindling field. His YouTube channel: MickeyJoTheatre is the largest worldwide in terms of dedicated theatre criticism, where he also share features, news and interviews as well as lifestyle content for over 95,000 subscribers. With a viewership that is largely split between the US and the UK he has been fortunate enough to be able to work with PR, Marketing, and Social Media representatives for shows in New York, London, Edinburgh, Hamburg, Toronto, Sao Pãolo, and Paris. His reviews and features have also been published by WhatsOnStage, for whom he was a panelist to help curate nominees for their 2023 and 2024 Awards as well as BroadwayWorldUK, Musicals Magazine and LondonTheatre.co.uk. Instagram/TikTok/X: @MickeyJoTheatre Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Happy 2026, listeners! To kick off the new year, we're sharing something special: Austen Chat's first episode recorded in front of a live audience. Jane Austen lived during a remarkably dynamic period of British history and was well aware of the forces shaping her world—colonial expansion, booming global trade, revolutions in Europe and the Americas, and yes, slavery and the abolition movement. It was also a world that included people of color whose lives were far richer and more influential and varied than often assumed today. In this episode, we talk with author Vanessa Riley, who is eager to share their stories. Join us as we discuss Miss Lambe—Austen's mixed-race heiress in Sanditon—and meet some notable Black figures from Austen's time, such as Dorothy Kirwan Thomas, who was born enslaved but went on to build a Caribbean business empire. Vanessa also shares some of her experiences behind the scenes (and on the screen!) of the 2024 adaptation of Sense and Sensibility as Hallmark's historical consultant. Dr. Vanessa Riley is the author of over 25 novels across across the genres of historical fiction, romance, and mystery, including a trio of books based on the true stories of extraordinary women during the Regency era: Island Queen, Queen of Exiles, and Sister Mother Warrior. Her works spotlight hidden narratives of Black women and women of color. Vanessa was the historical consultant for Hallmark's 2024 adaptation of Sense and Sensibility and the 2024 Georgia Mystery/Detective Author of the Year for Murder in Drury Lane. With a doctorate in mechanical engineering from Stanford University and other engineering degrees from Penn State, she brings a research-oriented approach to her inclusive storytelling about the Caribbean and the Georgian and Regency eras. For a transcript and show notes, visit https://jasna.org/austen/podcast/ep31.*********Visit our website: www.jasna.orgFollow us on Instagram and FacebookSubscribe to the podcast on our YouTube channelEmail: podcast@jasna.org
Earlier this week, the City Council Finance Committee voted 25-10 to reject the mayor's budget proposal. Alders pushed back on a corporate head tax and borrowing for police settlements. The mayor said he would veto increases to garbage fees and grocery or property taxes. So what's next as the deadline to pass a budget draws closer? We ask The Tribune's Jake Sheridan and WBEZ's Mike Davis. Plus, five years after nationwide calls to further diversify theaters, has anything changed? Good news: "Mika Scrooge" at ETA Theatre, "Sister Act" at Drury Lane, and Craig Dellimore and Ray Long honored Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this November 21st episode: The Auditorium Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events Chicago Symphony Orchestra Joffrey Ballet Simply Eloped MUBI Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
Do you know The Wicker Man? No, not the one that lives on Drury Lane. Y'know, the one that's part of an elaborate sacrifice to bring in an adult Christian virgin with extremely strong values so they can have plentiful crops? Yeah, that Wicker Man. Next movie: Alice, Sweet Alice
Lindsay and Madison discuss the popular nursery rhyme “The Muffin Man,” as well as how to lure children in the 16th century, that you should never trust a door-to-door pastry salesman, and how to start an urban legend. Information pulled from the following sources 2024 Atlas Obscura article by Kaleena Fraga (1) 2024 Kaneland Krier article by Sophie Thill 2024 Mirror article by Alan Johnson 2023 London Dark Tourist post by Jen 2023 Snopes article by Madison Dapcevich The White Hart Uncyclopedia Wikipedia Check out our friend Alex's new podcast, Second Guess Everything, that drops October 25, 2025. Send us your listener questions to bit.ly/AskYOC. Become a member on Buy Me A Coffee for as little as $1/month to support the show. Get your groceries and essentials delivered in as fast as 1 hour via Instacart. Free delivery on your first 3 orders. Min $10 per order. Terms apply. You can write to us at: Ye Olde Crime Podcast, PO Box 341, Wyoming, MN 55092. Leave us a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, Podchaser, Spotify, Podcast Addict, Audible, or Goodpods! Don't forget to follow us on Twitter, Instagram, Threads, Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
This episode features several ghosts all associated with one place. And that place is a specific building with its own interesting history – the Theater Royal Drury Lane of London. Research: Appleton, William Worthen. “Charles macklin: An Actor’s Life.” Cambridge, Harvard University Press. 1960. https://archive.org/details/charlesmacklinac00appl/page/n11/mode/2up Benjamin, Victor D. “The history of the theatres of London, from the year 1760 to the present time. Being a continuation of the Annual Register of all the new tragedies, comedies farces, pantomines that have been performed within that period. With occasional notes and anecdotes.” London. Printed for T. Becket. 1771. Accessed online: https://archive.org/details/historyoftheatre00victiala/page/n7/mode/2up Cibber, Colley. “An Apology for the Life of Mr. Colley Cibber.” Chiswick Press, London. 1889. Accessed online: https://www.gutenberg.org/cache/epub/44064/pg44064.txt “Dan Leno: A Victim to Overwork.” The People (London.) June 7, 1903. https://www.newspapers.com/image/811209994/?match=1&terms=dan%20leno “Dan Leno Dead.” New York Times. Nov. 1, 1904. https://timesmachine.nytimes.com/timesmachine/1904/11/01/101241446.pdf?pdf_redirect=true&ip=0 Dickson, Andrew. “Inside the world's most haunted theatre.” The Guardian. Oct. 29, 2015. https://www.theguardian.com/stage/2015/oct/29/most-haunted-theatre-ghosts-superstitions-theatre-royal-drury-lane The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica. "Colley Cibber". Encyclopedia Britannica, 7 Dec. 2024, https://www.britannica.com/biography/Colley-Cibber The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica. "Dan Leno". Encyclopedia Britannica, 16 Dec. 2024, https://www.britannica.com/biography/Dan-Leno The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica. "Drury Lane Theatre". Encyclopedia Britannica, 27 Jan. 2024, https://www.britannica.com/topic/Drury-Lane-Theatre The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica. "Thomas Killigrew". Encyclopedia Britannica, 15 Mar. 2025, https://www.britannica.com/biography/Thomas-Killigrew “Ghost of Dan Leno.” The Register. (Adelaide, SA.) Dec. 15, 1923. https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/65060035 Hoge, Warren. “A Major New Role As Theater Mogul For Lloyd Webber.” New York Times. Jan. 10, 2000. https://www.nytimes.com/2000/01/10/arts/a-major-new-role-as-theater-mogul-for-lloyd-webber.html "The humorous lieutenant, or, Generous enemies a comedy as it is now acted by His Majesties servants, at the Theatre-Royal in Drury-Lane." In the digital collection Early English Books Online. https://name.umdl.umich.edu/A39804.0001.001. University of Michigan Library Digital Collections. “Interregnum (1649-1660).” The Royal Family. https://www.royal.uk/interregnum-1649-1660 “Leno, Dan, 1860-1904.” University of Sheffield Archives. https://archives.sheffield.ac.uk/agents/people/308?&filter_fields[]=subjects&filter_values[]=Wild+west Lloyd, Arthur. “The Theatre Royal Drury Lane - Main Entrance situated on Catherine Street, Westminster, London.” Arthur Lloyd’s Music Hall. http://www.arthurlloyd.co.uk/DruryLane.htm#1 Maitland, Hayley. “Murder, Musicals, and Royal Romance: The History of Drury Lane, London’s Oldest—And Most Haunted—Theater.” Vogue. Sept. 14, 2023. https://www.vogue.com/article/the-history-of-drury-lane-londons-oldest-and-most-haunted-theater Milhous, Judith, and Robert D. Hume. “The Drury Lane Actors' Rebellion of 1743.” Theatre Journal , Mar., 1990, Vol. 42, No. 1 (Mar., 1990), pp. 57-80. https://www.jstor.org/stable/3207558 Morley, Sheridan. “Theatre's Strangest Acts.” Robson Books. 2014. Mullan, Kevin. “Charles Macklin (McLaughlin/MacLochlainn): The Donegal theatre radical and playwright who revolutionised Covent Garden in the 1700s.” Derry Journal. Sept. 24, 2024. https://www.derryjournal.com/heritage-and-retro/heritage/charles-macklin-mclaughlinmaclochlainn-the-donegal-theatre-radical-and-playwright-who-revolutionised-covent-garden-in-the-1700s-4795038 “The Newly Renovated Theatre Royal Drury Lane Wins At The Stage Awards.” Andrew Lloyd Webber Musicals. https://www.andrewlloydwebber.com/news/the-newly-renovated-theatre-royal-drury-lane-wins-at-the-stage-awards Planer, Nigel. “The Ghosts of the Theatre Royal Drury Lane.” Huffpost. Feb. 10, 2014. https://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/nigel-planer/nigel-planer-drury-lane-ghosts_b_4426092.html Simon, Ed. “Here We Are Again!—How Joseph Grimaldi Invented the Creepy Clown.” JSTOR. May 4, 2022. https://daily.jstor.org/here-we-are-again-how-joseph-grimaldi-invented-the-creepy-clown/ Shand, John. “Drury Lane: London’s Oldest Theater. A Tercentenary?” The Guardian. July 8, 1939. https://www.newspapers.com/image/259462987/?match=1&terms=drury%20theatre%20ghost Shipp, L. “Charles Fleetwood, the 1744 Drury Lane Riots, and Pricing Practices in Eighteenth-Century British Theatre.” Journal for Eighteenth-Century Studies, 47: 405–424. https://doi.org/10.1111/1754-0208.12956. “The Story So Far.” LW Theatres. https://lwtheatres.co.uk/theatres/theatre-royal-drury-lane/about-theatre-royal-drury-lane/ “The Story So Far …” Theatre Royal Drury lane. https://thelane.co.uk/the-history Wyatt, Benjamin Dean. “Observations on the design for the Theatre royal, Drury lane, as executed in 1812: accompanied by plans, elevation, & sections, of the same.” London, printed for J. Taylor. 1813. https://play.google.com/store/books/details?id=o58NAAAAQAAJ&rdid=book-o58NAAAAQAAJ&rdot=1 Zagha, Muriel. “The Puritan Paradox.” The Guardian. Feb. 15, 2002. https://www.theguardian.com/education/2002/feb/16/artsandhumanities.highereducation See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The muffin man Oh, do you know the muffin man, The muffin man, the muffin man? Oh, do you know the muffin man Who lives on Drury Lane? Oh, yes I know the muffin man, The muffin man, the muffin man. Oh, yes I know the muffin man Who lives on Drury Lane. 喔，你認不認識那位賣鬆餅的人？那位 賣鬆餅的人，那位賣鬆餅的人！ 喔，你認不認識那位賣鬆餅的人？那位住在杜利巷賣鬆餅的人？ 喔，是啊，我認識那位賣鬆餅的人那位賣鬆餅的人，那位賣鬆餅的人！ 喔，是啊，我認識那位賣鬆餅的人，那位住在杜利巷賣鬆餅的人。 *補充： 西元十世紀左右，在英國大不列顛島西南部的威爾斯，人們開始在高溫的石頭上，烘烤添加酵母的蛋糕充飢。十九世紀，人們改在淺鍋上煎餅，特別是維多利亞時代，而英國的杜立巷(Drury Lane ），正是鬆餅人的聚集地。 muffin 馬芬蛋糕(偏向麵包) / 杯子蛋糕: cupcake(上面通常有糖霜比較甜) / 鬆餅：waffle 格子狀 / Pancake 煎餅 / scone 司康 / souffle 舒芙蕾 Dessert vs. snack ☆若您對本頻道節目有任何疑問或建議，請e-mail 至：service@ner.gov.tw #每周六雙語麻吉同學會 #每周日英語童謠童話小森林 #想要無廣告收聽更多節目請點選教育電台雙語頻道 #每周六、日更新 -----
We're back with a special episode all about Gravity at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane! This one-off concert united Wicked legends Louise Dearman, Kerry Ellis and Rachel Tucker for an unforgettable afternoon of belting and nostalgia.West End Frame Editor Andrew Tomlins is joined by Adam Davenport, Dean of Performers College, who last co-hosted the fourth episode of The West End Frame Show back in 2019.Together, Andrew and Adam relive their standout moments from Gravity, reflect on the extraordinary impact Louise, Kerry and Rachel have had on musical theatre and share why they're hoping this performance is just the beginning for the show. Gravity was co-created and produced by Simon Schofield and Scott Garnham for Sisco Entertainment, with musical direction by James Doughty.This podcast is hosted by Andrew Tomlins. @AndrewTomlins32 Thanks for listening! We'll be back with a new series soon. Email: andrew@westendframe.co.ukVisit westendframe.co.uk for more info about our podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This is episode 230, From Knysna's Burning Forests to Tolstoy's War and Peace: The World in 1869. Globally, the end of the sixth decade of the 19th Century was full of fire and brimbstone, and some technology, social change, significant moments. The construction of the the Port Nolloth-O'okiep railway line is one notable tech development, but on the down side, the Southern Cape experienced a devastating fire that began in early February in the Meiringspoort area of the Swartberg Mountains, destroying numerous homesteads and ancient yellowoods. More about this in a few minutes. IN the United States, Elizabeth Cady Stanton testified before the U.S. Congress, thus becoming the first woman to do so, and later in 1869, Stanton and Susan B. Anthony formed the National Woman Suffrage Association. Sainsbury's opened in Drury Lane in London in May, Boston University was founded in the same month. A month later, John Hyatt patented celluloid in Albany New York, a product created by mixing nitrocellulose and camphor — thus creating the basis for the coming film revolution. Like all good ideas, Hyatt had actually bought the original patent from Englishman Alexander Parkes who couldn't figure out how to make money from his invention. It's amazing how many inventions were co-opted by entrepreneurs after the inventor struggled to make a buck out of a good idea. Take the common computer mouse, invented by Stanford Research Unit student Douglas Engelbart in the early 1960s. In the late 1970s, almost two decades after the mouse's invention, Apple's Steve Jobs saw a mouse being demonstrated along with what was called graphical user interface, GUI, at Xerox labs in Palo Alto California. November the 17 however, was probably one of the most significant dates in the calendar when it came to the Cape, because that was the date that the Suez Canal was completed. For the first time in history, ships could now sail through the canal, linking the Red Sea to the Mediterranean, shortening the voyages between Europe and the far east by months. In Cape Town, there was fear and loathing about the Canal. And so, to South Africa, let's retrace our steps to February 1869. It began, as such stories often do, with a wisp of smoke on the horizon. According to the local newspapers, the fire that would become known ominously as the Great Fire of 1869 was first spotted on the 8th February. The conditions were perfect for a catastrophe. Southern Cape berg winds, searing, north-westerly to north-easterly gusts, swept down from the heights. Born of a low-pressure system sliding from west to east, they could reach gale-force strength, tearing through valleys like invisible predators. By the time the flames were first seen near Knysna, the air shimmered with heat, the humidity was almost non-existent, and the vegetation which was parched after years of relentless drought, stood waiting, tinder-dry.But in February 1869, the fire dominated every horizon. From its first sparks, it began a horrifying march: sweeping west towards Swellendam, east to Uitenhage, and threading through the Langkloof valley north of the Outeniqua Mountains. Then, inexorably, it spilled down towards the coast, devouring all in its path, Great Brak River, Victoria Bay, Knysna, Plettenberg Bay.
In this week's episode of MusicalTalk, Nick and Hannah share their thoughts hot off the heels of the very first preview of Disney's Hercules, now making its West End debut at the historic Theatre Royal, Drury Lane. From gospel muses to gods on high, they dive into the show's music, staging, and how it adapts (and evolves) the beloved animated film for the stage. Does it go the distance? Has Alan Menken done it again? And how does this latest Disney stage offering stand alongside its predecessors?
Welcome dear listeners, to our series of ‘Talk Haunts' – a chat that's all scary ... just for you. So, grab a hot chocolate, maybe a tea, pull up a chair … because this is Haunted UK Podcast's Talk Haunts – Theatre Ghosts and Superstition with Stu Thompson and Lotty Holder from Radiant Boy – a new supernatural play soon to open at Southwark Playhouse – described as a coming-of-age drama meets The Exorcist! Join us as we chat to the lead actor Stu Thompson and producer Lotty Thompson all about the haunting story of Radiant Boy, the array of ghosts in London theatres as well as the many superstitions which haunt the acting profession. Sit back and enjoy as we discuss Shakespeare (although not the M word!), the hauntings at Theatre Royal, Drury Lane and more frighteningly: our mutual fear of demons and of the exorcism rite!Please check out the extended interview on Haunted UK Podcast Patreon where Stu and Lotty reveal their biggest fears plus the North East urban legend which inspired the play.Radiant Boy opens at Southwark Playhouse May 21st – 14th June. Tickets are available herePresented by Steven Holloway and Marie WallerProduced by Pink Flamingo Home StudiosScript editor: Marie Waller Proofreading The Haunted UK Podcast has teamed up with Northumbria University who are interested in sleep paralysis. Sleep paralysis is when people wake up and are unable to move and often see vivid experiences. We would particularly like to hear from people who are over eighteen years old and have paranormal experiences during sleep paralysis.We are proud to be a part of this fantastic study, and we'd love for all of you listeners to get involved if you've had any experience with sleep paralysis ... no matter how small.Get in touch using the following links:https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/ThingsThatBumpEmma.barkus@northumbria.ac.uknick.neave@northumbria.ac.ukcontactus@hauntedukpodcast.comDo you have an interesting story which features the paranormal? Or even ideas or stance on the paranormal that you would like to discuss? If so, we would love you to be a guest on Talk Haunts. Please get in touch via:Website: https://hauntedukpodcast.com/Instagram: Haunted UK PodcastTwitter/X: @hauntedukpodWe are also now on Facebook – please join us there!We're waiting for your stories …You can support us, access bonus material (including extra Talk Haunts, Short Haunts, Tour Haunts – and now Movie Haunts!), join our growing community – and follow us for updates at Haunted UK Podcast PatreonYou can now also support us at:ko-fiThank you!
When Sean Daniels decided to change his relationship with alcohol, he turned to what he knew best: theatre.His play, The White Chip, shares his story - and the community that helped him find his way to recovery.Welcome to The Next Round, the podcast that explores what people did next.While some keep their post-booze lives quiet, others shout them loud and proud, helping themselves - and inspiring you.Like Sean, his play The White Chip is moving on too: transferring from Off-Broadway to the Off-West End this summer.Could he have written a play while still drinking? Well, yes - until he couldn't.As a professional artist and director, Sean found healing by translating the chaos of his recovery into something tangible and transformative – a play.Today, Sean's autobiographical show, The White Chip, is not just another production. It's a raw, hilarious, and hopeful exploration of addiction and recovery, set to debut at London's Southwark Playhouse. But it's also a testament to what happens when you take your darkest moments and create a light for others to follow.“The art form did help to save me, because it was a way to try to process what happened.”For Sean, getting sober didn't mean leaving creativity behind – it meant reclaiming it. Early on in recovery, on just his third day of sobriety, he wrote a monologue trying to capture his confusion and pain. That piece remains almost untouched in the final version of the play. Writing gave him a lifeline, a way to understand a collapse that seemed impossible to explain at the time.He also poured his energy into community work, founding the Recovery Arts Project, an initiative using theatre to change the narrative around addiction. It's part of Sean's larger mission: not just to tell his story, but to reshape how society talks about addiction and creativity.“The opposite of addiction isn't abstinence – it's community.”Through his work, Sean challenges one of the most persistent myths: that great artists must suffer for their art, and that alcohol fuels creativity.“The idea that part of what it costs you to be a really great artist is that you have to destroy your life – that's 100% not true.”Sean's journey into addiction mirrored the glamorous chaos of the theatre world: late nights, endless parties, endless justification. At first, he says, drinking seemed to fuel his success, making him a more “fun” director, a better networker, someone who could juggle 4 a.m. drinks and 9 a.m. meetings with ease. Until it didn't.“It worked for me until it didn't, which is a pretty standard version of the story.”Find Club Soda:The Club Soda Tasting Room is at 39 Drury Lane, London, WC2B 5RRFind us on Instagram
When Sue put down the bottle for good, she picked up something else entirely – scraps of Scottish oak, old skateboards, and a newfound passion for woodwork.What followed wasn't just a hobby or a distraction. It was the beginning of a new life. Sue encourages you to find your own spark in the things you once set aside.Welcome to The Next Round, where we discover that the fleeting interests from our drinking days might actually hold the key to lasting joy in sobriety.For Sue Patten, woodwork became more than a craft. It became a way to rebuild, both inside and out. Her latest stint in rehab wasn't her first attempt at an alcohol-free life, but this time, everything clicked. Art, creativity, and real friendships gave her the strength to not just stay sober – but to thrive – so much so she stepped well outside her comfort zone to share her story with us on this podcast.“You get this rough piece of wood and it turns into this smooth, shiny piece of wood, and I love it. I just love it.”After decades where drinking had become her identity, her routine, her reward, her confidence boost. Sue rediscovered her creativity in sobriety. And she didn't just dabble. She built a new life.Her workshop near Warrington, Cheshire, became her sanctuary.“I go in there and I just lose track of time”What started with a ring and a skateboard became a series of bottle openers, chopping boards, and vases – each piece a quiet celebration of focus, beauty, and self-belief.“I wasn't going to make bottle openers, because I don't drink. But I liked seeing what I could create.”It wasn't always this way. Sobriety in her 20s, Sue admits, was an angry, isolating thing. She didn't go out. She didn't engage. But now, in her 50s, things feel entirely different.“I'm a happy sober person now, partly because of the woodwork, partly because I can socialise again – confidently.”Confidence is a recurring theme in Sue's story. It wasn't something she started with.“I've only just gained confidence in my mid-50s now… I never had the confidence to say, ‘That's quite good, that.'”But recovery gave her the tools. Literally.“If I'm a bit anxious, I can go into the workshop at whatever time. I release what I'm thinking.”Recovery, for Sue, wasn't just abstaining from alcohol. It was connection, creativity, and rebuilding. She found her turning point at Delamere, a rehab centre that encouraged therapy through art, horses, and most importantly – people.“The staff said, connection is everything. And I didn't believe it. But now I do.”Aftercare became another anchor. Most Sundays, she returns – not because she has to, but because it keeps her grounded and inspired.“Not everyone makes it, but they can see that you can get through it. That's important.”You can find Sue's work here. Find Club Soda:The Club Soda Tasting Room is at 39 Drury Lane, London, WC2B 5RRFind us on Instagram
Not many people kick off their sobriety journey with a pact made with their mum - but for Ryan and his mum, it worked. And it's transformed both of their lives.For Ryan, the energy he unlocked by quitting drinking didn't just stay bottled up - it burst open a world of new opportunities. And he said yes to all of them.Welcome to The Next Round -the podcast that explores what happens after you change your drinking. Whether you're wondering how to fill all that new free time or feeling supercharged with so many ideas you need help saying no, this show is your source of inspiration for whatever comes next.When Ryan gave up drinking, he didn't just close a door -he opened a portal. What followed wasn't just sobriety, but a full-blown transformation that turned him into a festival-hopping, breathwork-leading, mushroom-coffee-brewing creative force. This is the story of what happens when you say no to booze and yes to everything else.When Ryan gave up drinking, he didn't just close a door -he opened a portal. What followed wasn't just sobriety, but a full-blown transformation that turned him into a festival-hopping, breathwork-leading, mushroom-coffee-brewing creative force. This is the story of what happens when you say no to booze and yes to everything else.Ryan didn't just stop drinking. He and his mum made a pact, and it stuck. It became an anchor that kept him grounded when life threw him curveballs—grief, stress, pressure. And rather than slide back into old habits, he leaned into something new. Actually, many things new.“As soon as I closed that door, every opportunity just fell at my feet.”His first year of sobriety looked nothing like what you might expect. It began with a love story—he met his girlfriend at a sober-friendly community festival. She opened the door to a world of conscious living: breathwork, ice baths, and music-fueled self-exploration.“It was like, okay, here's everything you're going to do: this, this, and this. And you've just got to have the balls to do it.”What followed was a summer of sober festivals, including Medicine Festival and Boom in Portugal—seven days of breathwork, dancing, Kung Fu, and sound healing in the mountains. He wasn't just attending these gatherings. He was performing, drumming with his girlfriend's band, and even leading guided meditations at immersive sound healing events. At Hackney Round Chapel, he took the stage after a 20-year hiatus and led a meditation through the chakra system, paired with a cup of Blue Lotus tea and sacred geometry visuals on the ceiling.“It was the first time I was holding space in that kind of way.”Then came the deepening. He enrolled in an eight-month breathwork facilitator course, digging into trauma, PTSD, and shadow work. He's now running free sessions as part of his training and sees this as part of his longer-term path: helping others—especially men—through sobriety and healing.But his creativity doesn't stop there.“I used to drink quite a fair bit of coffee, but now I've had it with Reishi mushrooms… I've always had a passion for mushrooms.”So he's building “Holy Mush,” a tree-slab-cart-powered mushroom coffee business with a side of kindness and storytelling. Think Lion's Mane espresso served with a dose of human connection. He's also cooking up plans to document his journey on social media using first-person glasses.You can find Ryan's podcast 'Find Club Soda:The Club Soda Tasting Room is at 39 Drury Lane, London, WC2B 5RRFind us on Instagram
It was a health scare that pushed Jeff out of his comfort zone. He was diagnosed with a fatty liver at 29.Now he's reversed fatty liver disease and gained an amazing and active personal life.Welcome to the Next Round, when things that scare you have the potential to improve your life in ways you never imagined. Your next round can be more than getting better physically, it can help you create a new point of difference.Meet Jeff Smith, he works in finance by day, a notoriously boozy industry, but in his spare time he now performs improv on stage, jumps into icy fjords, learnt his mother tongue Tagalog, and has even launched a podcast. Most importantly he has reversed a health condition that could have killed him.When Jeff changed his drinking habits, he didn't just remove something from his life- he unlocked a more exciting life and imporved his health to boot!A health scare in his late twenties pushed him to re-evaluate how alcohol fit into his lifestyle. What followed wasn't just abstinence – it was expansion. From improv stages to ecstatic dance and even launching his own podcast, Jeff's life now pulses with more energy, creativity, and meaning than ever before.“It's just such a lazy option to go down the route of the pub when there's so many other things.” The catalyst was a diagnosis: fatty liver. At just 29, Jeff found himself dealing with elevated liver enzymes, fatigue, and unpleasant stomach issues. His drinking wasn't daily, but it was intense – classic binge behavior.“I reached a point where I didn't feel booze was doing anything anymore… I just didn't like that hangover slash low-energy feeling.”The health wake-up call forced him to stop. Cold. But instead of spiraling, he got curious.“You end up having much more free time because I wasn't low energy and didn't feel hungover… and that just made me think, gosh, push yourself out your comfort zone.”His first discovery? A run club that served matcha instead of beer. That led to Club Soda events, then the Social Wellness Club, and eventually a plunge into activities he never imagined himself doing. Like ecstatic dance.“What an amazing way to just be free… you could be any sort of background. And I just thought, this is so damn cool.”Even more surprising for an introvert in the corporate finance world? Improv.“Try improv. That would have scared the living daylights out of me a year and a bit ago… but I've pushed myself out the comfort zone.”Jeff also co-created a podcast with a university friend, “The English Footy Podcast.” With his evenings no longer lost to wine or recovery, he had time and clarity for passion projects. He even began learning Tagalog – his mother's language – fulfilling a long-held desire to connect more deeply with his heritage.But perhaps the most meaningful change came from social confidence.“I just feel more confident in socialising alcohol free and not feeling embarrassed. Just feeling positive about that choice.”Navigating the finance world – a bastion of long-standing drinking culture – hasn't been easy. Jeff still finds pressure in client meetings and among old university friends who knew him as a drinker. But with confidence and a kombucha in hand, he's learned to draw his own line.“It's been a bit of a re-education for some colleagues… but actFind Club Soda:The Club Soda Tasting Room is at 39 Drury Lane, London, WC2B 5RRFind us on Instagram
This week's episode is an extended, uncut interview with the one and only, Vanessa Riley. She is the preeminent voice in historical romance and fiction, writing Black characters who feature prominently in Regency Romance. A PhD in Engineering from Stanford and author of well over 25 books, Vanessa combines her love of learning, facts and figures with... well... love.We talk about her process, how she chooses her topics, and what is it about the Regency that she is drawn to.Bio: Vanessa Riley is an acclaimed author known for captivating novels such as Island Queen, a Good Morning America Buzz Pick, and Queen of Exiles, an ABC View Lit Pick. She was honored as the 2024 Georgia Mystery/Detective Author of the year for Murder in Drury Lane and the 2023 Georgia Literary Fiction Author of the Year for Sister Mother Warrior. Her craft highlights hidden narratives of power, love, and sisterhoods of Black women and women of color in historical fiction, romance, and mystery genres. Her works have received praise from publications like the Washington Post, Entertainment Weekly, NPR, Publisher Weekly, and the New York Times. In addition to penning over twenty-five novels, Vanessa holds a doctorate in mechanical engineering from Stanford University and STEM degrees from Penn State, adding a research-oriented approach to her writing while emphasizing inclusive storytelling about the Caribbean, Georgian, and Regency eras. As a member of Regency Fiction Writers, Crime Writers of Color, Mystery Writers of America, Women's Fiction Writers Association, Christian Book Lovers Retreat, and the Historical Novel Society, Vanessa advocates for diverse voices. She's also working to increase Sickle Cell Anemia awareness. When she's not writing, she can be found baking, crafting her Trinidadian grandma's recipes, or relaxing on her southern porch sipping caffeine. For more on Vanessa, visit her website. VanessaRiley.com Follow Romance in Colour on Social MediaIG @RomanceInColourTwitter: @RomanceNColour Facebook Groups: www.facebook.com/groups/RomanceinColourFollow Yakini on her Instagram @OurNycHomeFollow Tati Richardson on social media and pick up her books here, here
Anneka has a story many of us recognise — that moment where one drink turns into four, and suddenly you've lost the night again.Like so many, she used alcohol to take the edge off anxiety. It worked — until it didn't.Now, she's alcohol-free and in tune with a completely different kind of energy. She turns to her tarot cards — not just for guidance, but to help others explore their own stories too.Welcome to The Next Round — the podcast that asks what happens after we stop drinking. Maybe you're wondering what's next for you. Who knows — maybe it's written in the cards.Like Anneka Davie, who's turned her passion for tarot into a tool for self-discovery and connection. In this episode, she shares how ditching alcohol opened up a whole new path — and yes, she even pulls a few cards for me.When Anneke Davie stopped drinking, she didn't just give up wine – she made space for something entirely new. A quiet force emerged. It started with crystals, then crept into her life with the pull of tarot cards and the clarity of a new routine that no longer centred around hangovers or hazy memories.She'd always been a binge drinker.“Friday was my big sort of day. But my problem was I couldn't ever stop at one glass no matter how much I tried.”Like many, Anneke believed drinking gave her confidence, especially in social situations, but the next day was always brutal.“I'd be lying in bed crying, couldn't look at my phone. I just felt like everyone I'd been out with probably now hated me.”Her final drink came after a day at the races. Drunk and disoriented, she lost the diamond out of her engagement ring and found herself on hands and knees, scrabbling through the grass.“The next day I just thought, I don't want to do this anymore.”That was three years ago.What came next wasn't just sobriety – it was a reconnection with a part of herself that had been long dormant. As a child, she'd been fascinated by dreams, superstitions and horoscopes. Lockdown gave her the pause she needed to revisit that part of herself. Crystals came first, and soon her house was filled with them – much to the despair of her husband. But then came tarot. She found a reader on Instagram, began training, and started doing readings for herself. The cards became mirrors, windows, and conversation starters.“I use tarot more as helping people get insight into something they're struggling with. It doesn't predict your future. It gives you a bit of a slap in the face about what you already know.”It wasn't long before others began asking for readings, and what started as a hobby slowly began to evolve into something more purposeful. At a retreat, someone asked her for a reading and, despite feeling way out of her comfort zone.The more distance she put between herself and alcohol, the stronger her sense of direction became.“I think actually believing I could do it came once I'd fully stopped drinking.”Find Club Soda:The Club Soda Tasting Room is at 39 Drury Lane, London, WC2B 5RRFind us on Instagram
Alcohol affects everyone – no matter who you are or where you're from. Take John from Ghana. Sound familiar?Today, he's leading the charge for alcohol-free living in Africa – a true trailblazer.Welcome to the next round, where we dig into the stories that shape us. The journeys that brought people to where they are now.Like John Asogonnde – who swapped booze and weed in his for purpose, passion, and change.We recorded this live during John 's visit to the UK last autumn — so please excuse the audio quality!When John stopped drinking and smoking weed at 24, he didn't just walk away from substances -he walked into a mission. Five months after taking his last drink, John knew he had changed. He didn't feel like he was missing out. Instead, he felt sharper, more alert, more present. And he wanted to create a space where others could feel that way too.That's how Eden Bar was born -Ghana's first alcohol-free nightlife experience.“I wanted to create an experience for people who wanted to go out and still have a good time, get some nice, sophisticated drinks, cocktails, beers and all of that, but not have to deal with the pressure of alcohol.”Launched on October 2nd, 2022 – World No Alcohol Day – Eden Bar started as a one-day pop-up. John raised money from friends and family after being roasted online for even suggesting the idea. But the launch was a success. Word spread fast, and John knew he was onto something bigger.“There were so many people that came through, the news spread across social media and everything. From there, we were able to do the actual Eden Bar later in December, and that's what we've been building on till date.”John's journey to sobriety was a long one. He started drinking at 13, not because he liked the taste – his first drink was a 40% spirit that gave him a hangover the next day – but because he liked the way it made him feel.“It gave me a false sense of confidence. I was able to move along smoothly in the party scene… It was like an elixir to make me feel more alive.”By the time he reached university, drinking and smoking weed had become daily habits. His grades collapsed. Once a first-class student, he failed every course in his second year.“My hostel became a party headquarters. We didn't do anything apart from party.”Even after relocating to a different hostel, the habits stayed. And when he graduated, he went straight into Ghana's nightlife industry, managing a nightclub for a popular musician. The access to substances was constant – and partaking was expected.“This was a job where even on a Monday morning, I could go to the office, roll up a joint and smoke.”But inside, he was miserable. The high never lasted. The low always deepened. He started to rebuild from the inside out – with faith, family, books, long walks, and intention.You can follow John on @edenbargh but a hard copy of his book on https://joinclubsoda.com/product/john-asogonnde-unchained-book/Find Club Soda:The Club Soda Tasting Room is at 39 Drury Lane, London, WC2B 5RRFind us on Instagram
Angie Thompson grew up in a turbulent home, where shouting, swearing, slammed doors, and harsh words were the norm.But when she quit drinking, she uncovered a truth that changed everything—her past wasn't just something to escape from; it held the key to her transformation.Welcome to The Next Round, where we explore what happens after the last drink—because sometimes, understanding why you drank in the first place is the first step to discovering a new purpose. For Angie, that purpose became clear: by healing herself, she could help others do the same.When Angie Thomson decided to quit drinking, she had no idea it would lead to a complete transformation -not just in her own life, but in the lives of others. Nearly two years into her alcohol-free journey, she's now a trauma-informed coach, guiding people through the deeper reasons behind their drinking.“Take that leap of faith and just go for it. You won't regret it – you'll never look back.”For Angie, sobriety wasn't just about removing alcohol. It was about understanding why she drank in the first place. That realisation pushed her into a new career, one rooted in healing.Finding the ‘Why' Behind the DrinkingAngie describes herself as the life of the party -the first to arrive, the last to leave, always pushing others to drink just as much as she did. But behind the fun-loving image was something deeper.“Drinking was something to stop myself feeling all of that trauma people tend to suppress.”Like many, she didn't initially connect her drinking to her past. She grew up in a volatile household, where shouting and name-calling were the norm. As a child, she internalised it. “We don't think logically as kids. We think, ‘My parents are arguing because of me.'” Those feelings of unworthiness followed her into adulthood, shaping her drinking habits.It wasn't until she stopped drinking that she recognised the underlying wounds that alcohol had been numbing.“Trauma isn't what happens to you. It's what happens inside of you because of what happened to you.” You can find out more about Angie at angiethompson.thementalwellbeingcompany.com/ and on instagram @AngieMWCFind Club Soda:The Club Soda Tasting Room is at 39 Drury Lane, London, WC2B 5RRFind us on Instagram
Looking back it is easy to see how alcohol drains your time, but for a long time Anna couldn't quite admit what the problem was.But Anna is not looking back, and her positive attitude is helpful for us all.Welcome to the next round where we explore how you fill the space once occupied by wine, hangovers, and the mental weight of drinking culture.When Ex advertising exec Anna Donaghey stopped drinking, she found herself with a new problem – time. What do you do with it? For Anna, the answer lay in something she'd been drawn to for years but had never quite pursued – podcasting.“I had many obstacles in my mind—confidence, self-doubt, perfectionism. But just cracking on and doing it proved to be easier than I thought.”Anna launched The Big Drink Rethink, a podcast exploring our relationship with alcohol, the culture around it, and what life can look like without it. It was a creative outlet, a way to channel her curiosity, and, unexpectedly, an anchor that kept her steady in her alcohol-free life.“It keeps me very intact in this world of alcohol freedom, which is very important to me.”But her journey to this point wasn't smooth. It was a long, slow unraveling of drinking habits that had once felt normal, even essential. Anna's story isn't one of dramatic rock bottoms, it's one of creeping dissatisfaction, of realising that drinking wasn't just stealing her time, but also her sense of self.Advertising, Drinking, and a Life on RepeatAnna spent over 25 years in advertising, an industry where drinking wasn't just acceptable – it was expected. She remembers long lunches, late nights, and the endless socialising that blurred into work.“I sometimes think about whether I was attracted to the industry because there was permission within that space to drink.”She wasn't an outlier. Alcohol was woven into the job – client meetings over wine, celebratory drinks, networking events. It was an industry where drinking was both professional and personal, making it even harder to see when it had crossed the line from social to habitual.When she got married, her drinking didn't slow down. In fact, it ramped up. Parenthood brought a new challenge: identity loss. Motherhood was disorienting, and the reality of maternity leave was nothing like the glowing, fulfilling image sold to women.“I found maternity leave deadly dull. I found being a young mum incredibly boring. And I felt shameful that I wasn't reveling in it the way I was ‘supposed' to.”The loneliness, the shift in identity, the quiet grief for the life she had before, Anna managed it the way she had always managed difficult feelings: with wine.“I knew that life had changed forever. I was no longer the advertising girl, but I wasn't quite an established mum. I worried I never would be.”You can find Anna on instagram at bigdrinkrethink and The Big Drink Rethink podcast on all platformsFind Club Soda:The Club Soda Tasting Room is at 39 Drury Lane, London, WC2B 5RRFind us on Instagram
Seana spent most of her adult life in a love-hate tango with alcohol. But in writing her story, she unearthed the reasons she drankWelcome to The Next Round – where the things you do after booze can often lead to feelings you never expected and can help the adult you in ways you could never imagined.This week's guest, Seana Smith, set out to document her first year alcohol-free, but in the process, she delved into her childhood- finding answers to questions she never even knew she had.A Life Entangled in AlcoholSeana spent much of her adult life in a push-pull battle with alcohol. On the surface, she was a high-functioning drinker—never the one causing scenes or spiraling visibly out of control. But behind closed doors, she was stuck in a vicious cycle of stopping, starting, berating herself, and repeating the pattern all over again.“I was driving myself absolutely mad – internally. My friends wouldn't have thought I had a big drink problem, but in my own mind, I was trapped.”Her drinking wasn't just about the present—it was rooted in a painful past. Seana grew up in a home overshadowed by addiction and domestic violence. Her father was an alcoholic, and his drinking shaped the way she saw herself, the world, and alcohol itself.“I had a great big push-pull because I didn't want to be like that. But on the other hand, I did want to be like that.”A Legacy of TraumaThe echoes of her father's drinking didn't just haunt her childhood—they followed her into adulthood. As she tried to make sense of her own drinking, she realized she was wrestling with something far bigger than just a bad habit.“I think I was berating myself because I didn't want to behave like Dad had and cause trouble like he had. But it was all caught up in my mind, and I just didn't believe I could ever actually stop permanently.”The turning point came when she lost her mother—a moment that unraveled a lifetime of emotions and unresolved pain. Her father's drinking had defined so much of her childhood, but her mother's silent endurance had shaped her just as much.“I waited until they both died to start writing my story. Growing up, we weren't allowed to talk about what was going on. I didn't feel free to put it down on paper until Mum had passed away.”You can find Seana's book on Amazon and AudibleAmericaAustraliaUKAudibleSpotifyFind Club Soda:The Club Soda Tasting Room is at 39 Drury Lane, London, WC2B 5RRFind us on Instagram
For years, Cecilia lived a life dedicated to health and fitness and encouraged others to prioritise their well-being. But one thing didn't align with her values: alcohol.Cecilia didn't drink often, but when she did, she didn't like how it made her feel. It clashed with the lifestyle she professionally advocated.Welcome to the next round—where we explore what happens after people evaluate their relationship with alcohol. Whether you're a daily drinker or an occasional binge drinker, alcohol can affect your life in both physical and psychological ways. Can quitting open up new perspectives?This week's guest, Cecilia Shandeva, a Workplace Wellbeing Professional and Grief Recovery Specialist, proves that no matter where you start, social pressures remain the same—but cutting out alcohol can make a huge difference. While the physical benefits of quitting are clear, the biggest gains may come from the psychological transformation.“Everything about drinking isn't fully aligned with me, who I really am as a person.”For years, Cecilia lived a life dedicated to health and fitness. She ran marathons, led group workouts, and encouraged others to prioritize their well-being. But one thing wasn't aligning with her values: her drinking habits.“I considered myself a social drinker, I'd go out maybe once a month, and sometimes I'd take a break for a couple of months. But then there were times, like around birthdays or Christmas, when I'd drink more than I planned. Even when I thought I was controlling it, I wasn't.”Despite drinking less frequently than some, the impact was undeniable. The hangovers, the anxiety, the lost days of recovery – Cecilia realised that alcohol was taking away from the life she wanted to live.“If I went out planning to have one or two drinks, it would usually end up being more. I was waking up feeling awful, regretting the night before, questioning my decisions – even if I hadn't done anything particularly bad.”Find Club Soda:The Club Soda Tasting Room is at 39 Drury Lane, London, WC2B 5RRFind us on Instagram
Tabbin is on a mission to shake up booze-soaked workplace culture -but her own journey with alcohol was anything but smooth. After going alcohol-free for years, a cancer diagnosis sent her back to the bottle, even though drinking may have played a role in her illness.Like so many, her drinking started at work – where long lunches and late nights weren't just accepted but expected. Now, she's challenging the norms that make alcohol a workplace staple, so others don't fall into the same trap.Welcome to The Next Round, where we dive into why we started drinking, how that history shapes our future, and what an alcohol-free life can really look like. From personal challenges to changing the world (or at least your office happy hour), there's more on the other side than you ever imagined.Meet Tabbin Almond -an ex-advertising pro who knows firsthand how the industry's macho, drink-fuelled culture can spiral out of control. She yo-yoed between sobriety and drinking for years, but now she's free and fighting to create healthier, more inclusive workplaces. Let's get stuck in!She believes that drinking should not be an expectation in corporate environments, nor should it be a measure of professional success or sociability.“It starts out as a perk of the job, but it becomes a requirement of the job.”For years, she worked in industries where drinking was not only normalised but encouraged. Client entertainment meant keeping up with drinking expectations, and refusing a drink could be seen as a lack of team spirit.“Do you check with somebody before you send a gift, whether or not they drink alcohol? The most common reply is, no, who doesn't love a bottle of bubbly?”She challenges workplaces to rethink corporate gifting, expense policies, and the psychological safety of employees who may struggle with alcohol. She argues that alcohol should not be the default, nor should abstaining from it come with stigma.“If leaders don't lead on this, there's no psychological safety for people saying, ‘Do you think I could have a bit of help?'”You can buy Tabbin's Book: Bottling Up Trouble: How alcohol is harming your business… and what to do about itUKUSACanadaAustraliaFind Club Soda:The Club Soda Tasting Room is at 39 Drury Lane, London, WC2B 5RRFind us on Instagram
Hattie may be a clear-headed, cold-water queen these days, but getting here was harder than mastering butterfly stroke! Even pregnancy didn't create the clean break from alcohol she had hoped for.And despite a few trials with moderation along the way, she now knows—this time, sobriety is for good.Welcome to The Next Round—the podcast about the bold, brilliant, and sometimes downright bonkers things people do after quitting booze. But remember, folks, you don't have to freeze your bits off to get sober!Unlike this week's guest, Hattie, who prefers being neck-deep in icy water rather than in booze. She kicked off her journey with the Dry January Challenge, and alongside a whole lot of learning and reflection, she's now alcohol-free and bouyant.Finding Peace in the WaterFor Hattie Underwood, cold water swimming is more than just a pastime – it's a sanctuary. The icy plunge slows everything down, giving her a rare sense of hyper-focus and clarity.“I just feel really hyper-focused. And, you know, afterwards, I just feel so energised by them.”Her love for swimming started young, training competitively for Southampton. But it was her mother, an avid swimmer in Hampshire's rivers and along the South Coast, who instilled a love for wild swimming. As she embarked on her sobriety journey, this practice took on new meaning.“It quietens my mind in a way that nothing else does. I just feel so in the moment.”Living in London, Hattie became a member of an ice bath club, pushing her limits and embracing the mental resilience required to withstand freezing temperatures.“It's a bit of mind over matter going into it. But I just love it.”A Relationship with Alcohol That Had to ChangeDespite a successful life on paper, Hattie's relationship with alcohol had always been problematic. From sneaking drinks in school to drinking alone before socialising, she felt an intense need for alcohol to function socially. The dependency escalated over time, leading to morning drinking and a fear of being ‘found out.'“I would drink before seeing anybody, even if they were a really close friend.”When she became pregnant, she assumed nine months of abstinence would change her relationship with alcohol. However, once her child was born, she quickly fell back into old patterns.“Even with nine months of not drinking, nothing had changed, and in fact, it had picked right back up where it had left off. And it just got so much worse.”Find Club Soda:The Club Soda Tasting Room is at 39 Drury Lane, London, WC2B 5RRFind us on Instagram
When Gavin quit drinking, he didn't expect to gain listening skills—but he's embraced his new life with open arms!Now, you can't stop him from filling his time with meaningful activities.Welcome to the next round: exploring life after quitting drinking and discovering the many ways to find purpose—like helping others.This week, meet Gavin Chase, care industry recruiter by day and Samaritan volunteer by night. Through volunteering, Gavin has honed new skills, found deep purpose, and even become a role model for others.Gavin Chase's story is one of transformation and dedication—a journey marked by his decision to quit drinking, his commitment to volunteering, and his belief in living a life of purpose. Far from leaving his corporate job, Gavin's spare time is dedicated to initiatives that complement his professional life and fulfill his personal aspirations.“Sobriety isn't just about saying no; it's about saying yes to a better life.”Gavin's decision to quit drinking was a pivotal moment in his life.“It wasn't just about giving up alcohol; it was about reclaiming my life”The journey to sobriety was not without its challenges, but it profoundly shaped who he is today.“You start to see the world differently. It's like waking up from a fog.”This newfound clarity and energy have allowed him to focus on what truly matters, inspiring others to consider the transformative potential of a sober lifestyle.Volunteering with the SamaritansOne of the most profound aspects of Gavin's journey is his dedication to volunteering with the Samaritans, a charity that offers support to those in emotional distress.“Being there for someone in their darkest moments is humbling.” His work with the Samaritans has given him a deep sense of purpose and perspective.“While I'm there to help others, I've learned so much about empathy, resilience, and the strength of the human spirit.”This experience has reinforced his belief in the importance of listening and being present for others—lessons that resonate in every aspect of his life.“Service has a way of bringing out the best in you.”This candid insight highlights Gavin's belief in the transformative power of giving. He describes volunteering as a grounding force, one that reminds him of what truly matters.Beyond his role with the Samaritans, Gavin is actively involved in other community initiatives. From mentoring young people to supporting local environmental projects, his volunteering efforts are diverse and impactful.“Helping others isn't just a responsibility—it's a privilege” Gavin's volunteering not only enriches his life but also allows him to build meaningful relationships with people from all walks of life.Overcoming Challenges and Finding PurposeNo personal transformation is without its hurdles, and Gavin's was no exception. From self-doubt to navigating the complexities of balancing work and volunteering, he has faced his share of challenges.“What keeps you going is the belief that what you're building matters.” For Gavin, purpose extends beyond personal achievements. Whether through mentoring, supporting community projects, or sharing his story of sobriety, his focus remains on leaving a lasting impact.“Your journey doesn't have to look like anyone else's.”This powerful reminder underscores Gavin's belFind Club Soda:The Club Soda Tasting Room is at 39 Drury Lane, London, WC2B 5RRFind us on Instagram
For the past 25 years, Marie Morice has been at the forefront of global climate change, and with some big shifts in her life, including quitting drinking she has added gender initiatives and campaigning within organisations such as the UN to her passions. She has now retrained as a clinical sexologist and uses her skills to support individuals as well as wider systems change.Today, Marie helps women rediscover their sexual agency and pleasure. Her journey to this point has been anything but linear, but it was quitting alcohol that catalysed her transformation. Now post-menopause and living a life full of clarity and energy, Marie is a walking testament to the power of change.“There's a Life Energy in Me That I've Never Had”Marie's relationship with alcohol was intense. As she puts it:“It was part of my celebrations and my commiserations. Let's have a drink—no matter what.”Over the years, however, her body began reacting less and less well to alcohol, something that became especially apparent as she went through hormonal changes during menopause. Despite several attempts to take breaks from drinking, she always found herself returning to it.But a heavy night a year and a half ago was the turning point.“I woke up and thought, I can't do this anymore. I can't keep waking up knowing I'll feel hungover in two or three days. My life was being wasted.”For Marie, it wasn't about hitting rock bottom but rather a constellation of factors—the end of a long-term relationship, a desire to invest in her work helping women, and a need to prioritise her health and energy.Giving up alcohol wasn't easy, but the rewards have been profound.“There's a life energy in me that I've never had, or maybe that I had but was tamed by alcohol, – I have a clarity now that I didn't know I was missing. It's incredible.”Reclaiming Pleasure and AgencyMarie's journey away from alcohol coincided with her decision to retrain as a coach. Originally inspired by friends and family who praised her listening skills, she realised her true passion lay in helping others on a deeply personal level. While her early coaching clients brought a range of issues to her, many women came to her seeking guidance on their sexuality. That's when Marie decided to specialise as a sex coach and clinical sexologist.“Our relationship to pleasure is so important. For many women, it's fraught with guilt, whether that's related to drinking or societal expectations. The first thing I work on with my clients is understanding their relationship to pleasure—not just sexual pleasure, but pleasure in life.”Marie believes that for women, especially those in midlife, this work is vital.“As we go through menopause, there's a natural reevaluation of who we are and what we want. It's a chance to reconnect with our bodies and desires.”And she's quick to emphasise that pleasure is a skill that can be relearned.“It's about creating new pathways to joy. What gives you pleasure? It could be anything, from a quiet moment of doing nothing to an incredible orgasm. The point is to explore.”Find Club Soda:The Club Soda Tasting Room is at 39 Drury Lane, London, WC2B 5RRFind us on Instagram
Socialising and networking alcohol-free can be tough—even for the pros. But for Narmeen, it's a choice she's never looked back on.Now, she's shaking up the events industry, challenging organisers and caterers to rethink how they cater to guests. Her mission? To make events more inclusive and ensure everyone feels part of the party, regardless of what's in their glass.
Alasdair Gill has a passion for cooking and an abundance of creativity. However, years of working in hospitality and drinking heavily left him facing a difficult decision—one he took reluctantly, despite a dire prognosis.His advice is valuable for everyone, no matter where you are in your relationship with alcohol.Welcome to the next round, where I talk to people who have inspired me—not just with the changes they've made to their drinking habits, but with what they've gone on to achieve next. From reigniting old passions with renewed vigour to making bold life and career changes, there's no template. What you do next is entirely up to you!Alasdair Gill is now a private chef. Since rehab, he has rediscovered the skills and passion for cheffing that he developed early in his career, building a new way of working that aligns with who he is today. His story is a powerful reminder that the things you loved before life fell apart can still be part of your future.Alasdair Gill's journey from battling addiction to becoming a successful private chef is a powerful testament to resilience and reinvention. His story highlights the challenges of working in hospitality while struggling with alcohol and drug dependency and how recovery transformed not only his outlook on life but also his career.The Beginning of the Journey: Struggles in HospitalityFor Alasdair, the hospitality industry was both a lifeline and a trap. He describes the kitchens and bars he worked in as a “pressure cooker,” a space that both attracted and enabled his struggles with alcohol.“Hospitality is accepting of what you are—it will take us in.”While kitchens initially provided a way to earn money, Alasdair admits they didn't spark joy or passion.“For a long time, it was just about making money. There wasn't much love there,” The Turning Point: RecoveryThe tipping point came when Alasdair faced severe health issues, including cirrhosis of the liver, and was told he wouldn't survive to see Christmas. Even then, his decision to enter rehab was reluctant.“I didn't want to live, but I didn't want to die either. I was in between—a numbness of fine.”Rehab became the space where Alasdair could pause, reflect, and start to piece his life back together.“It gave me a sober mind for the first time since I was 15. Suddenly, I started questioning whether what I'd been doing was normal.”Finding Purpose Through CookingPost-recovery, Alasdair returned to the one industry where he had experience -hospitality. But this time, he approached it differently. Together with a friend who was also in recovery, Alasdair launched a private catering business.“Every gig is a completely different adventure, and I love that,” Sobriety has not only allowed Alasdair to rebuild his life but also to rediscover creativity and care in his craft.“I give much more of a shit about the product than the paycheck,”Book Alasdair at gordonandgill.co.ukFind Club Soda:The Club Soda Tasting Room is at 39 Drury Lane, London, WC2B 5RRFind us on Instagram
Live from the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane, Dan, James, Anna and Andy discuss failure, theatrics, fraud and a highly litigious member of the Trump family. Visit nosuchthingasafish.com for news about live shows, merchandise and more episodes. Join Club Fish for ad-free episodes and exclusive bonus content at apple.co/nosuchthingasafish or nosuchthingasafish.com/patreon
This week on Rockonteurs we welcome Pete Townshend and Rachel Fuller to the podcast to discuss their new musical and literary collaboration, The Seeker. Authored and composed by Rachel with additional music and lyrics by Pete, it brings to life the Hesse novel Siddhartha in a brand new and beautiful way. You can see it live in London at a one-off show on November 6th at the Theatre Royal on Drury Lane. Tickets at www.theseekermusic.comPlus, Pete shares some incredible and never before heard stories about his life, his music and his journey. You can also watch some of our latest episodes on our Rockonteurs YouTube channel.Instagram @rockonteurs @guyprattofficial @garyjkemp @officialthewho @yaggerdang @rachelfullertownshend @gimmesugarproductionsYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@rockonteursFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/RockonteursProduced for WMG UK by Ben Jones at Gimme Sugar Productions Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Live from the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane, Dan, James, Anna and Andy discuss cassettes, cruising, cliffs and clowns. Visit nosuchthingasafish.com for news about live shows, merchandise and more episodes. Join Club Fish for ad-free episodes and exclusive bonus content at apple.co/nosuchthingasafish or nosuchthingasafish.com/patreon
"I've been in the presence of ghosts on several occasions"Sandi Toksvig is an internationally renowned and much-loved comedian, broadcaster, writer and campaigner. Now, Sandi announces One Night Only, a new live theatrical comedy extravaganza, for two nights only on Wednesday 13th and and Thursday 14th November 2024 at the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane in London's West End. The QI Elves, the researchers from the hit BBC2 show, will be delving into the theatrical archives to help Sandi unearth the funniest facts and anecdotes.Go see Sandi's show one night only: http://lwtheatres.co.ukRead her new book: https://www.welbooks.co.uk/shop/p/friends-of-dorothy-by-sandi-toksvig-signedGet tickets to Sandi Clause: https://www.royalalberthall.com
In which our hero does NOT know the Muffin Man
Sandi Toksvig is someone we've wanted to have on Rosebud for a long time... so we're really delighted that she's today's guest! Sandi talks to Gyles about her amazing father, the most famous man in Denmark; she tells Gyles about her fascinating childhood, spent in Africa, the USA and the UK. She talks about playing hooky from school, about getting found out and being sent to boarding school, where she spent four miserable years. She shocks Gyles with her description of the prejudice she discovered was still alive and well when she was at university. This is as witty, wise and entertaining as you would expect, but it's also moving and profound. Sandi's new book, Friends of Dorothy, is out now, from Virago Books, and Sandi is on a UK tour - tickets at www.sanditoksvig.com. Sandi is also doing two special "One Night Only" shows at the Theatre Royal on Drury Lane on 13 and 14 November 2024 - tickets are on sale now via www.lwtheatres.co.uk. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Sandi Toksvig is someone we've wanted to have on Rosebud for a long time... so we're really delighted that she's today's guest! Sandi talks to Gyles about her amazing father, the most famous man in Denmark; she tells Gyles about her fascinating childhood, spent in Africa, the USA and the UK. She talks about playing hooky from school, about getting found out and being sent to boarding school, where she spent four miserable years. She shocks Gyles with her description of the prejudice she discovered was still alive and well when she was at university. This is as witty, wise and entertaining as you would expect, but it's also moving and profound. Sandi's new book, Friends of Dorothy, is out now, from Virago Books, and Sandi is on a UK tour - tickets at www.sanditoksvig.com. Sandi is also doing two special "One Night Only" shows at the Theatre Royal on Drury Lane on 13 and 14 November 2024 - tickets are on sale now via www.lwtheatres.co.uk. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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