Arts & Toast

Kirsty Corbett
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What really goes on behind the scenes of theatre, museums and live performance in the East Midlands? An East Midlands Arts Podcast with Kirsty Corbett. Join Kirsty for relaxed chats with theatre-makers, museum curators, musicians and artists shaping culture across the East Midlands. From theatre and dance to exhibitions and live music, each episode celebrates the people and ideas bringing the region’s arts and culture community to life. Put the kettle on and take a front-row seat to the East Midlands arts scene. If you like a theatre podcast, creative podcast, entertainment podcast or just a general artsy podcast then you have come to the right place.

  1. 6h ago

    New Art Exchange’s VOICE Committee Selects Quilla Constance for Nottingham Exhibition

    In this episode of the Arts & Toast podcast, Kirsty Corbett talks to acclaimed British-Jamaican multidisciplinary artist Quilla Constance (QC) about her creative journey, performance art and her most ambitious exhibition to date, Activating Intersections, at New Art Exchange in Nottingham. Opening on 10 October 2026, Activating Intersections brings together monumental oil paintings, costume, video and live performance. Selected by New Art Exchange’s pioneering VOICE committee, the exhibition explores identity, cultural stereotypes, power, activism and participation, blurring the boundaries between contemporary art, performance and popular culture. In the conversation, QC shares the childhood experience that first sparked her confidence as an artist, the contrast between her naturally shy personality and her bold artistic persona, and the challenges of creating an ambitious new exhibition while responding to the expectations of both audiences and the VOICE committee. The exhibition will extend beyond the gallery, with audiences invited to interact with QC’s wearable costumes and become part of the artwork. The project will culminate in a carnival-inspired public performance through Nottingham city centre on 16 January 2027, giving people the chance to wear QC’s costumes and experience her work in a completely different way. Known for combining anarcho-punk feminism, carnival, humour, activism, performance and painting, Quilla Constance has exhibited widely and recently appeared on Sky Max’s Rob & Romesh Vs (Art), where she led a performance art workshop culminating in a performance at London’s Saatchi Gallery. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in contemporary art in Nottingham and the East Midlands, performance art, socially engaged practice and the artists shaping the region's cultural landscape. Exhibition: Quilla Constance: Activating Intersections Venue: New Art Exchange, Nottingham Dates: 10 October 2026 – 16 January 2027 Admission: Free

    New Art Exchange’s VOICE Committee Selects Quilla Constance for Nottingham Exhibition

  2. 1d ago

    Harris Beattie: Behind the Scenes of Northern Ballet’s Cinderella at Nottingham Theatre Royal

    In this episode of the Arts & Toast Podcast, Kirsty Corbett chats to Northern Ballet soloist Harris Beattie about his journey from Aberdeen and Billy Elliot to becoming one of the company’s leading dancers, and his latest role as Jack in Michael Pink’s Cinderella as they prepare to open their UK premier at Nottingham Theatre Royal on 23 October 2026. Harris talks candidly about his career, training and the importance of finding his own style as a performer, as well as his passion for storytelling through dance and creating believable characters on stage. With a background spanning ballet, contemporary, jazz and musical theatre, Harris shares what it takes to combine athleticism, technique and emotion in a professional ballet career. The conversation also explores Northern Ballet’s new production of Cinderella and how Michael Pink’s production puts a fresh, theatrical spin on the much-loved fairy tale. Harris discusses the rehearsal process, character development and the physical and creative demands of bringing a full-length ballet to life. Perfect for theatre lovers, ballet fans and arts audiences across Nottingham, Nottinghamshire and the East Midlands, this episode offers a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at Northern Ballet, professional dance and the art of telling stories without words. 🎟️ Tickets are on sale now via Nottingham Theatre Royal's website.

    Harris Beattie: Behind the Scenes of Northern Ballet’s Cinderella at Nottingham Theatre Royal

  3. 1d ago

    Healing Through Harmony: The Power of Music in Healthcare at Derby & Burton Hospitals.

    In this episode, we explore the powerful role of music, creativity and the arts in healthcare across the East Midlands with Rosie Rutherford, lead of the music programme at Air Arts. Rosie shares her experiences of bringing live music and creative activity into clinical environments, and explains how the arts can make a meaningful difference to patients, families and healthcare staff. The conversation explores the growing importance of NHS staff wellbeing, including how music can help colleagues process challenging experiences, build connections and find moments of support within the pressures of healthcare. A key focus is the Air Arts wellbeing choir, which was launched online during the COVID-19 pandemic to support NHS staff. What began as a virtual choir has grown into an established community where healthcare colleagues can come together through singing, share experiences and connect with people who understand the unique pressures of working in the NHS. Rosie also talks about some of the creative collaborations and music projects developed through her work, including the memorable partnership with Derby Cathedral. She reflects on projects such as A Grateful Heart and The Longest Winter, which gave healthcare staff an opportunity to tell their stories and express their experiences through music. Looking to the future, Rosie discusses new music representing different clinical areas, as well as projects that will help raise funds for Air Arts and support its continued work bringing music and creativity into healthcare settings across Derbyshire and the wider East Midlands. This thoughtful conversation highlights how music can create space for communication, emotional expression, connection and wellbeing, demonstrating the important role creativity can play in supporting people throughout their healthcare journey — from patients and families to the NHS staff caring for them. Whether you're interested in music in healthcare, NHS wellbeing, arts and health, creative projects in Derbyshire, or inspiring stories from the East Midlands, this episode offers a fascinating insight into the difference creativity can make.

    Healing Through Harmony: The Power of Music in Healthcare at Derby & Burton Hospitals.

  4. Sep 26 ·  Bonus

    Derby Feste 2026

    Celebrating Community at Derby FesteJoin us in Derby City Centre as we explore the creativity, community and culture of Derby Feste — a vibrant, free festival bringing live performance and entertainment to audiences of all ages. We hear from Cllr Gurkiran Kaur and street artists & performers, including Simple Cypher & Sur Mesure, about the importance of accessible arts, outdoor performance and community events as well as Event Organiser Phil Hargreaves. We also discover how Derby Feste supports the city centre and local businesses. A celebration of creativity, connection and community — discover what makes Derby Feste so special.

    Derby Feste 2026

  5. Sep 23

    The Art of Movement: Danny Reubens on Dance, Design & Performance with Matthew Bourne's The Car Man

    Danny Reubens on Dance, Matthew Bourne’s New Adventures, Arts Education & Performing at the Royal Albert Hall In this episode, we’re joined by dancer and performer Danny Reubens for an insightful conversation about dance, performance, storytelling and life as a professional dancer. Danny talks about his career in the performing arts, his work with Matthew Bourne’s New Adventures, performing in Car Man, and what it’s really like to tour with one of the UK’s leading contemporary dance companies. Danny shares his experiences of performing at the Royal Albert Hall, working as part of major dance productions, and the creative process behind bringing a story to life through movement, choreography, costumes, set design and visual storytelling. We also explore how dance has evolved over the past 15 years, the way different dance styles are increasingly coming together, and the realities of life on tour as a professional performer. A key part of the conversation is arts education and access to the performing arts. Danny discusses why opportunities for young people to experience dance, theatre and the creative industries are so important, and how greater access to arts education can help inspire the next generation of performers and creatives. Danny is currently touring in Matthew Bourne’s Car Man as part of New Adventures, with the production heading to Nottingham Theatre Royal from 23 September to 26 September. Whether you’re interested in dance, theatre, performing arts, choreography, arts education, musical theatre or the creative industries, this episode offers a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at the world of professional performance. 🎟️ Tickets can be purchased from Nottingham Theatre Royal & Concert Hall's website here.

    The Art of Movement: Danny Reubens on Dance, Design & Performance with Matthew Bourne's The Car Man

  6. Sep 20

    ACE supported award winning comedy drama on PMDD coming to Nottingham Playhouse

    Tell Me Where It Hurts – Live at Nottingham Playhouse Award-winning theatre company Teepee Productions brings Tell Me Where It Hurts to Nottingham Playhouse on 15 October. Written by actor, writer and producer Tayla Kenyon, Kirsty sat down to find out about this powerful comedy-drama which shines a vital spotlight on Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD). Balancing humour, heart and hard truths Kenyon explores what happens when women’s pain and mental health experiences are too often dismissed. The story follows Chrissy, a dedicated drama teacher navigating life, work and relationships while living with PMDD, and Annie, a talented student preparing for a life-changing audition. As their lives intersect, they confront the frustrations of feeling unheard while finding connection, understanding and strength in one another. In this podcast, we explore the story behind Tell Me Where It Hurts, Tayla’s creative journey, and why telling honest stories about women’s health matters. Supported by Arts Council England and The PMDD Project, and developed with dramaturgical support from the National Theatre’s New Writing Studio, Tell Me Where It Hurts is theatre that entertains, challenges and starts important conversations. 🎭 Nottingham Playhouse 📅 15 October 2026 🎟️ Tickets are on sale now via the Nottingham Playhouse website.

    ACE supported award winning comedy drama on PMDD coming to Nottingham Playhouse

  7. Sep 17

    Behind the Laughter: Crafting Comedy the comedy for 39 Steps at Derby Theatre.

    In this interview, we explore the delightful chaos of theatre production, where creativity meets absurdity. Three members of the cast, James Keningdale, Katherine Perkins & Tom Mitchell, share their experiences from rehearsals filled with laughter and unexpected moments, all while preparing for their newest show under the direction of Cal McCrystal. This interview is a behind-the-scenes look reveals the heart of theatrical comedy, where every rehearsal is an adventure filled with creativity and camaraderie. James, Kat and Tom debate how many characters there actually are, with numbers ranging from 70 (ish) to 130 plus wearing multiple costumes on stage due to the fast paced, multi-character nature of the show. The director, Cal McChrystal, is celebrated for his playful and democratic approach to rehearsals. The cast feels encouraged to push boundaries and explore the limits of comedy, creating a nurturing environment for creativity. The physical demands of their roles are no joke. James shares a glimpse into the demanding routines that involve a mix of magic tricks and slapstick humour. Yet, amidst the sweat and laughter, they find freedom in their roles, trading the intricacies of Shakespeare for a more liberated, cartoonish style of acting. 🎟️ The show runs from 29 September 2026 – 17 October 2026 and tickets are on sale now for the show from the Derby Theatre website.

    Behind the Laughter: Crafting Comedy the comedy for 39 Steps at Derby Theatre.

  8. Sep 15

    Behind the Scenes of Buxton Opera House's Pantomime with Catherine Pugh & Jamie Davis-Fletcher

    Join Kirsty as she explores the joy, pranks and spirit of panto season with Buxton Opera House’s panto stars Catherine Pugh & Jamie Davis-Fletcher. The three share their insights on the enchanting world of pantomime, revealing the joy, laughter, and occasional chaos that come with it. The conversation takes a hilarious turn as they share stories of onstage mishaps. From unexpected ad-libs to costume malfunctions, the unpredictability of live performances brings an element of surprise that keeps everyone on their toes. Catherine recalls a particularly funny moment when she accidentally burped mid-song, leaving her in fits of laughter rather than singing. Both panto stars also confirm when is the “correct time” for your Christmas decorations to go up. The Derbyshire Peaks pantomime opens on Friday 4 December at Buxton Opera House and runs until 2 January 2027. Tickets start at just £15 and are on sale now via the Buxton Opera House website.

    Behind the Scenes of Buxton Opera House's Pantomime with Catherine Pugh & Jamie Davis-Fletcher
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About

What really goes on behind the scenes of theatre, museums and live performance in the East Midlands? An East Midlands Arts Podcast with Kirsty Corbett. Join Kirsty for relaxed chats with theatre-makers, museum curators, musicians and artists shaping culture across the East Midlands. From theatre and dance to exhibitions and live music, each episode celebrates the people and ideas bringing the region’s arts and culture community to life. Put the kettle on and take a front-row seat to the East Midlands arts scene. If you like a theatre podcast, creative podcast, entertainment podcast or just a general artsy podcast then you have come to the right place.

Information

  • Creator
    Kirsty Corbett
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    67
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Kirsty Corbett
  • Show Website
    Arts & Toast