Five Minute Call

This is Thomas Vernal. In this episode of the Five Minute Call, we dive into the incredible story of Thomas Vernal, an actor whose path to the West End stage was anything but traditional. This conversation highlights Thomas' journey from being an R&B singer in Birmingham to performing in major productions like The Book of Mormon and Hamilton. Thomas opens up about overcoming adversity, his uni...

This is Katy Bryant. In this episode, we have the pleasure to chat with Katy Bryant, who has worked on over 30 shows, including Hamilton, Mary Poppins, and Les Misérables as a Company Manager. Katie shares her journey into the industry, the challenges she faced, and how she focuses on creating a positive environment in theater. We also touch on her experiences with mental health initiatives in the...

This is Shan Ako. In this episode we dive into the inspiring story of Shan Ako, known for her standout roles as Eponine in 'Les Misérables' and Eliza in 'Hamilton.' Shan recounts her musical journey, from singing at home with her family as a child to touring in Whitney Houston and Motown tribute shows, and her breakout on X Factor. She also discusses the significance of mental heal...

This is Jeremy FisherIn this episode we explore the inspirational journey of Jeremy Fisher, a renowned author, musician, and vocal coach. Jeremy shares his story, from growing up on a council estate with limited musical exposure to becoming a celebrated vocal pedagogue known for his extensive work and publications on singing. Jeremy also shares valuable advice for performers, audition tips, and ho...

This is Charlotte Simpson. In this episode of The Five Minute Call, we dive into the fascinating career of Charlotte Simpson, who has risen from a dresser to the head of wardrobe over her 15-year career in musical theatre. Charlotte shares her experiences working on major West End productions such as School of Rock and Cabaret at the Kit Kat Club. She discusses the complexities of costume maintena...

This is Luke KempnerIn this episode we sit down with the multi-talented Luke Kempner, a comedian, impressionist, and actor currently starring as Thénardier in Les Misérables. Luke shares his journey from his early days in Surrey, discovering his passion for theatre, to his leap of faith into the world of comedy. He discusses the balance of work and play, his vocal techniques for character developm...

This is Rachel John In this episode we sit down with Rachel John, a spectacular talent in musical theatre with a career that spans almost 20 years. Rachel recounts her unexpected journey from being a secretary to landing her first role in 'The Lion King,' and eventually starring in 'Memphis' and 'Hamilton.' She touches on the unique experiences and challenges of being a swing, the exhilaration of...

This is Dr. Martin Saweirs. In this episode we delve into the unique and fascinating journey of Dr. Martin Saweirs, a general practitioner and company doctor for Cameron Mackintosh Limited, which includes some of the West End's biggest shows. Learn how a serendipitous phone call led him from general practice to becoming an essential support figure in the theatre world. Dr. Martin shares insigh...

This is Lily Kerhoas In this episode we dive into the inspiring journey of Lily Kerhoas, a talented singer and actress who has graced stages in some of the most iconic roles such as Cosette in 'Les Miserables' and Christine in 'Phantom of the Opera'. From her early days in Paris with a musical family background, to overcoming personal and professional challenges, and ultimately finding her place o...

This is Alice Afflick-Mensah In this episode of The Five Minute Call, we delve into the world of theatre sound engineering with Alice Afflick-Mensah, who is currently the Head of Sound for Hamilton in the West End. Alice recounts her journey from studying classical music to working on one of the biggest shows in the world. She shares her experiences managing live mixes, her emotional connection wi...

This is Luke Bayer. In this episode we're talking to Luke Bayer about his impressive career in theatre. Starting at age 14 as a contestant on The X Factor, Luke went on to tour China before performing as Jamie in "Everybody's Talking About Jamie". He also received acclaim for his one-man show "Diva Live From Hell" - winning multiple awards. Luke shares the highs and lows of his early start, his pr...

This is Charlie Stemp. Join us for a very special Christmas episode of The Five Minute Call! This week, we’re on location at the London Palladium’s Robin Hood rehearsals to chat with one of musical theatre’s brightest stars, Charlie Stemp. From his award-winning performance in Half a Sixpence to Broadway’s Hello, Dolly!, and now starring in Crazy For You and Robin Hood, Charlie shares his incredib...

This is Gillyanne Kayes. In this episode of The 5 Minute Call, we dive deep into the life and career of Dr. Gillyanne Kayes of Vocal Process. Gillyanne shares her journey from childhood singing to teaching, the challenges faced with a significant voice problem, and her current mission to inspire and influence vocal trainers. She talks about her transformative experiences at the East 15 acting scho...

This is Mark Hedges. Mark shares his captivating journey from school shows to playing major roles in productions like 'Les Misérables' and 'Starlight Express,' to becoming a resident director for iconic shows like 'The Bodyguard,' 'Mary Poppins,' and 'Phantom of the Opera.' He offers a deep dive into his transition from performing to directing, the challenge...

This is Raffaella Covino. Join us for an inspiring conversation with Raffaella Covino, an esteemed performer who has appeared in shows like In the Heights, Rent, Hairspray, and On the Town. Raffaella shares her powerful journey of dealing with mental health challenges while working in the theatre industry, which ultimately led her to establish the mental health organisation, Applause for Thought....

This is Zachary James. We dive deep into the story of Zachary James, the acclaimed performer currently appearing as Hades in the West End's Hadestown. Zachary opens up about his journey from a shy kid in Florida to a celebrated musical theatre and opera star. He shares insights into his high school days, his Broadway debut, and his experiences working across different genres. Learn about his d...

This is Ellen Jackson. 00:00:00 - Opening Trailer 00:00:56 - Introduction 00:01:27 - Ellen's Story 00:03:15 - Early Singing Experiences 00:06:25 - Pursuing a Career in Singing 00:11:00 - Royal Scottish Academy of Music 00:14:23 - Early Career with Scottish Opera 00:17:55 - Transition to Musical Theatre 00:22:24 - Motherhood and Les Misérables 00:26:25 - Born Again at Chichester Festival Theatr...

This is Johnny's story. 00:00:00 - Opening Trailer 00:01:14 - Introduction00:01:38 - In The Beginning 00:04:50 - Joining Carnival Messiah 00:06:58 - Auditioning for The Lion King 00:09:29 - Moving to London 00:11:05 - Life at Sylvia Young Theatre School 00:17:32 - Advice for Young Performers 00:22:25 - Perfectionism and Sustainability 00:29:25 - Teaching Dance vs Singing 00:34:34 - The Impact...

This is Lorna's story. 00:00:00 - Opening Trailer 00:01:08 - Introduction 00:01:20 - Lorna's Journey into Theatre 00:09:43 - What is Stage Management? 00:17:29 - Differences Between Deputy Stage Manager and Company Manager 00:19:53 - Lorna's Move from Plays to Musicals 00:27:15 - What Happens When Something Goes Wrong During a Show 00:32:38 - The Magic of a Sitzprobe 00:36:05 - Differe...

This is Jen's story. 00:00:00 - Trailer 00:01:02 - Introduction 00:01:29 - Jennifer White's Early Life and Musical Background 00:02:23 - The Importance of Breadth in Musical Knowledge 00:04:10 - Developing Musical Accompaniment Skills 00:05:16 - Working Men's Club Band Experience 00:06:26 - Musical Theatre Beginnings at Age 17 00:08:55 - Auditioning for Music Schools and University 00:...

This is Kris' story. 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:01:09 - Early Influences and Discovering Musical Theatre 00:02:07 - Family Background in Performing Arts 00:03:16 - First Steps and Education in Musical Theatere 00:06:14 - Professional Development and Transitioning Roles 00:10:04 - Ensemble Importance and Recognition 00:12:05 - First Professional Gig and Transition to Teaching 00:16:35 - Reflect...

This is Alexia's story. --- 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:00:38 - Early Musical Influences and Experiences 00:04:18 - First Steps into Professional Theater 00:07:13 - Transition to a Career in Musical Theater 00:15:01 - The Craft of Performance and Authenticity 00:23:01 - Vocal Health and Mindfulness 00:32:48 - Facing Challenges and Learning from Them 00:40:52 - Character Building and Authenticit...

This is Jon's story. ---- 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:00:22 - Jon Robyns: The Person Behind the Performer 00:04:35 - Exploring Identity and Performance 00:10:59 - The Journey through College and Finding Fitness 00:16:12 - The Importance of Preparation and Hard Work 00:22:05 - Developing Character: Valjean, Phantom, and Beyond 00:28:47 - Balancing Family Life with a Theatre Career 00:36:08 - Tra...

Discover the poignant and inspiring journeys of Oren Boder and Claire Underwood in this episode of "The 5 Minute Call." Oren, a survivor of two life-saving operations, and Claire, who faced her own deep personal struggles, share their transformative experiences. This episode offers a raw and intimate look into their battles and triumphs, shedding light on the resilience and power of the...