Who Makes Theatre?

Khadifa Wong
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  • PERFORMING ARTS

Who Makes Theatre is a podcast that focuses on the people who work behind the scenes in Theatre. Every fortnight Khadifa Wong will be joined in conversation by members of the Theatre community.

Episodes

  1. 06/28/2025

    Every show needs Dressers, Crew, and their invisible magic to succeed.

    Send us a text Step into the shadows of London's dazzling West End with Who Makes Theatre, where the spotlight turns to reveal the extraordinary people who work tirelessly behind the scenes. Meet Shennika and Jo, a Dresser and Crew member respectively from Disney's The Lion King, whose stories illuminate the vibrant but often invisible world that keeps theatrical magic alive night after night. Shennika's journey from digital artist to dresser reveals the often unconventional path many theatrical careers take. Her candid reflections show how she found her place in the whirlwind of quick changes, costume repairs, and emotional support that defines her role.  Jo offers a fascinating glimpse into stage crew life, describing how their childhood fascination with Cirque du Soleil evolved into a career spent "working in the shadows." Their openness about neurodivergence in the industry challenges the "show must go on" mentality while advocating for better understanding and support systems. From perfectly timed tree branch drops to the thrill of watching audience reactions through video monitors, their story demonstrates how the smallest technical details create unforgettable theatrical moments. Both guests discuss the unique challenges of theatre careers – the antisocial hours that require holidays for "normal weekend functions," the pressure of representation for people of colour backstage, and the intense emotional bonds formed with colleagues. Despite these hurdles, their passion shines through in every anecdote and reflection. Whether you're considering a backstage career, curious about how West End productions actually function, or simply appreciate the craftsmanship behind artistic experiences, Theatre Voices offers an intimate, honest exploration of theatrical life beyond the applause.  Subscribe now and discover a whole new appreciation for the artists who create magic from the wings.

    59 min

  2. 06/27/2025

    From Mary Poppins to the Lion King a 20 Year Journey

    Send us a text Have you ever wondered about the people who make theatre magic happen night after night? The ones you never see but whose work is essential to every performance you've ever loved? Who Makes Theatre answers those questions. This podcast pulls back the curtain on the hidden world of West End theatre, guided by Khadifa, a dresser with 20 years of backstage experience. This isn't just about costume changes and technical wizardry—it's about the extraordinary community that forms behind the scenes of your favourite shows. For the very first episode of this podcast series, Khadifa goes full circle, talking to Michael Brown whom she first worked with on Mary Poppins and now twenty years later works with when she deps at Lion King. As the Lion King is one of the shows she currently deps on she decided to launch the podcast with a special double bill, released over two days. This Lion King special features Michael Brown (Deputy Head of Automation) and Patience Persson (Company Manager), whose journeys reveal both the technical mastery required to mount spectacular productions and the human connections that sustain them. Michael's transition from flyman to automation spans decades of theatrical evolution, while Patience's path from ballet student to performer to company manager demonstrates how representation in theatre continues to evolve. These conversations explore how theatre creates space for authenticity and connection while challenging lingering barriers to diversity and inclusion. Whether you're a theatre professional, an aspiring artist, or simply curious about what happens beyond the footlights, these stories will transform how you experience your next performance.  Special thanks to the management at the Lion King and Disney Theatrical for supporting the show. Both episodes were recorded at The Lyceum Theatre - substage and in the office. Subscribe now to hear from those making theatre a better place, one show at a time.

    1h 12m
  • 2 Episodes

About

Who Makes Theatre is a podcast that focuses on the people who work behind the scenes in Theatre. Every fortnight Khadifa Wong will be joined in conversation by members of the Theatre community.

Information

  • Creator
    Khadifa Wong
  • Episodes
    2
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Velvet Swan Films
  • Show Website
    Who Makes Theatre?