Curve in Conversation

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Curve in Conversation takes you behind-the-scenes of Leicester's Curve theatre, giving you exciting insights into the work you see both on - and off - our stages.

  1. SEP 25

    "Giving everybody the chance to experience theatre really matters" | Running to support Curve, inspiring the next generation of theatre technicians and a look ahead to upcoming shows

    With autumn in full swing, our host Martin Ballard checks in with MATILDA’s ballroom loving mother Mrs Wormwood, aka. Rebecca Thornhill. This smash hit Royal Shakespeare Company production prepares to open right here in Leicester next month, and Rebecca sheds light on why the show has been such a fan favourite. We’ll soon be welcoming an iconic showbiz pair to our Studio stage, as NOEL & GERTIE prepares to introduce audiences to a world of laughter, music and showbiz charm. Gary Tushaw will take on the role of Noël Coward, and he shares why his character’s friendship with Gertrude Lawrence became so admired. Our fantastic runners are preparing to take part in the Run Leicester Half Marathon and 10km as part of the Curve Run Challenge. By taking part, our representatives will raise money to help support Curve's mission to ensure all young people, regardless of their background or financial circumstances, can access, enjoy and shape the future of theatre. Martin speaks to Laura Kearsley of Nelsons all about why she has volunteered to run for Team Curve. Also in this episode, hear more from Curve's Senior Lighting Technician and Curve Young & Community Company (CYCC) Tech group leader, Nathan Clamp, who tells us more about inspiring the next generation of theatre technicians.

    37 min
  2. "Audiences will be gripped" | Paul Foster of KISS OF THE SPIDER WOMAN, ALIENS LOVE PANTA CLAUS & WHO'S AFRAID OF VIRGINA WOOLF?

    AUG 29

    "Audiences will be gripped" | Paul Foster of KISS OF THE SPIDER WOMAN, ALIENS LOVE PANTA CLAUS & WHO'S AFRAID OF VIRGINA WOOLF?

    With the Christmas season here at Curve fast approaching, our host Martin Ballard chats with director Julia Thomas about the magic behind our Made at Curve Christmas family show, ALIENS LOVE PANTA CLAUS. From funky dance numbers to red-nosed reindeer, Julia shares her imaginative vision for this out-of-this-world holiday production.  We also celebrate the thrilling announcement of our upcoming revival of Kander and Ebb’s iconic musical KISS OF THE SPIDER WOMAN, co-produced with Bristol Old Vic and Mayflower Southampton. Director Paul Foster joins us to talk about bringing this powerful story back to the UK stage for the first major revival since 1992.  And finally, hear from BAFTA winner and Golden Globe nominee Cathy Tyson, who gives us a glimpse into her portrayal of Martha in Edward Albee’s classic WHO’S AFRAID OF VIRGINIA WOOLF? Cathy explores the complex mind of her character, delving into the fantasies that keep the relationship with her husband George alive, and why this production promises to be a once-in-a-lifetime theatrical experience.  Hear all this and more in this month’s episode of Curve in Conversation!

    30 min
  3. Celebrating 30 years of Frantic Assembly, hear from WHO'S AFRAID OF VIRGINIA WOOLF? director Cara Nolan and enjoy Curve's summer workshops for young people!

    JUL 31

    Celebrating 30 years of Frantic Assembly, hear from WHO'S AFRAID OF VIRGINIA WOOLF? director Cara Nolan and enjoy Curve's summer workshops for young people!

    With the summer holidays in full swing, host Martin Ballard chats with Curve’s Schools & Community Partnerships Manager, Lorrine Douglas, about the exciting line-up of summer workshops for young people this August. From Dance and Musical Theatre to Play in a Day, Lorrine shares what participants can expect from these fun, hands-on sessions designed to spark creativity and confidence.  We’re also joined by Scott Graham, Artistic Director of the acclaimed theatre company Frantic Assembly, as they celebrate 30 years of ground-breaking work with their latest production, LOST ATOMS. Co-produced by Curve, Mayflower Southampton, and Lyric Hammersmith Theatre, this new piece explores how memory shapes our understanding of love and questions what truly defines a “successful” relationship. Scott reflects on Frantic Assembly’s legacy and gives us a glimpse into what audiences can expect from this powerful new show.  Finally, Curve’s Associate Director Cara Nolan offers insight into her approach to the upcoming Made at Curve production of WHO’S AFRAID OF VIRGINIA WOOLF?. She shares fascinating details about playwright Edward Albee and the unexpected inspiration behind the story, explaining why this iconic drama is a must-see.

    31 min
  4. "Curve is where theatre really blossomed for me" - THE ADDAMS FAMILY's Lauren Jones on her return to Curve, a celebration of Speak Up and Christina Bianco of JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT

    JUN 26

    "Curve is where theatre really blossomed for me" - THE ADDAMS FAMILY's Lauren Jones on her return to Curve, a celebration of Speak Up and Christina Bianco of JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT

    Things are about to get kooky and spooky at Curve as THE ADDAMS FAMILY takes over our stage this summer. In this episode of Curve in Conversation, fan favourite Wednesday Addams aka Lauren Jones makes her triumphant return to Leicester!  Lauren talks all about her journey into the world of theatre, ranging from her first experience on the stage to her adventures as part of Curve’s Community Company. Hear all about this local star and what it’s like to be taking on this iconic role.  Also in this episode, hear from the students of Leicester taking part in Speak Up. This secondary school programme in collaboration with the National Theatre sees young people working with local artists and teachers on creative projects.   Lastly, JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT will bring a rainbow of colour and song to Curve. Christina Bianco of the cast talks all about this renowned production and why it’s one you can’t miss.

    36 min
  5. "It is witty, it is funny and it is uplifting"- Lisa Maxwell and Katie Cailean of INDIGO, Janette Manrara of CHICAGO and upcoming Made at Curve productions

    MAY 29

    "It is witty, it is funny and it is uplifting"- Lisa Maxwell and Katie Cailean of INDIGO, Janette Manrara of CHICAGO and upcoming Made at Curve productions

    It’s the 50th episode of Curve in Conversation!  Thank you to all our listeners who have continued to join us behind-the-scenes at Curve and the fantastic productions that grace our stages.  In this month’s episode, we explore the colourful world of brand-new musical INDIGO. Our host Martin Ballard is joined by Katie Cailean who takes on the role of Emma, and The Bill’s Lisa Maxwell who plays her grandmother Elaine. Following three generations of women and looking into themes including Alzheimer’s, Autism and Synaesthesia, hear why this premiere production should be on your to do list this summer.  Strictly Come Dancing’s Janette Manrara enters the Razzle Dazzle of CHICAGO which arrives on Curve’s stage this June. Janette speaks of her journey from TV star to theatre debut, and how excited she is to take on the complex role of Roxie Hart.  Preparations for our newest Made at Curve productions are well under way! Hear from Nikolai Foster and David Seadon Young of our Christmas musical THE SOUND OF MUSIC, and Cara Nolan’s vision for WHO’S AFRAID OF VIRGINIA WOOLF?  Lastly, Curve staff member Megan Cliffe returns to the podcast to discuss her journey from Stage Door Reception to the producing and programming department!

    47 min
  6. Talking to the iconic Sir Tim Rice, Sharon Sexton of BAT OUT OF HELL and James Yi of KIM's CONVENIENCE

    APR 28

    Talking to the iconic Sir Tim Rice, Sharon Sexton of BAT OUT OF HELL and James Yi of KIM's CONVENIENCE

    It’s that time again – another brand-new episode of Curve in Conversation is here!  This month, our host Martin Ballard speaks to star of KIM’S CONVENIENCE James Yi, as this hit show heads out on its first UK tour. James talks all about this heartwarming drama which inspired the Netflix show of the same name, and why this production has become so meaningful for its audiences.  We then prepare for BAT OUT OF HELL to ignite Curve’s stage this June as this ultimate rock experience showcases the iconic music of Jim Steinman and Meat Loaf. Taking on the role of Sloane, Sharon Sexton talks all about the impact that this musical duo had on classic rock and why this musical production is not to be missed.  Finally, musical royalty Sir Tim Rice explores his journey into musical theatre ahead of the arrival of his show My Life in Musicals – I Know Him So Will. We also learn about how Leicester and Curve has impacted Sir Tim’s career and why he looks forward to returning.  Hear all this and more in this new episode!

    38 min
  7. BEHIND-THE-SCENES OF MURIEL’S WEDDING THE MUSICAL REHEARSALS

    MAR 27

    BEHIND-THE-SCENES OF MURIEL’S WEDDING THE MUSICAL REHEARSALS

    It’s time to go behind-the-scenes of another Made at Curve production!  Join our host Martin Ballard for this brand-new episode of Curve in Conversation as he steps foot into the rehearsal room for MURIEL’S WEDDING THE MUSICAL. Martin is joined by best of friends Muriel & Rhonda, aka Megan Ellis and Annabel Marlow as they talk all about the bond between their characters and the journey of self-discovery that they embark on.  Making his Curve debut, Darren Day talks all about his character, Muriel’s father Bill Heslop and why he is so excited to work on this UK premiere right here in Leicester.  Also hear from Ethan Pascal Peters who takes on the role of Muriel’s not so great date, Brice Nobes, who talks through how rehearsals have been going.  Hear all this and more in this episode of Curve in Conversation.

    29 min
  8. The work of Theatre Nation Partnerships and the tour of HANDBAGGED

    FEB 27

    The work of Theatre Nation Partnerships and the tour of HANDBAGGED

    For this episode of Curve in Conversation, we take a look at Theatre Nation Partnerships – a collaborative network of arts organisations aiming to strengthen their relationships with local audiences, schools and communities – and the impacts of Curve’s involvement.  Hear from the National Theatre’s Head of National Partnerships Kiri Grant, as she delves into the amazing work of the collaboration and the projects coming up soon.  Director of Creative Programmes here at Curve, Kay Hardiman showcases how the partnerships have added to the accessibility of arts in the Leicester area, and the other great work our teams have achieved in the local community.  To round up the episode, returning to Leicester after last year’s hit Made at Curve production of MY FAIR LADY, Sarah Moyle takes on the role of Queen Elizabeth in HANDBAGGED. This Theatre Nation Partnerships production of Moira Buffini’s clever comedy is a fly-on-the-wall look at what might have happened when Queen Elizabeth II and Margaret Thatcher came face-to-face in the privacy of the palace. Sarah talks all about the challenges of taking on the role of this influential historical figure, and how excited she is to share the production across the country (especially Leicester!).  Hear all this and more in this episode of Curve in Conversation.

    37 min
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About

Curve in Conversation takes you behind-the-scenes of Leicester's Curve theatre, giving you exciting insights into the work you see both on - and off - our stages.

Information

  • Creator
    Curve
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2025
  • Episodes
    54
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Curve in Conversation
  • Show Website
    Curve in Conversation

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