On this week's episode, Mark and Joe sit down with Rob Fletcher, a former student of Mark's turned professional stage manager as he tells them about role on the touring production of Charlie And The Chocolate Factory. Rob also talks about his backstory and how he went from a youth theatre performer to taking the lead backstage.

The episode is full of industry insight and Rob takes us all behind the curtain to learn more about those who make performance possible.

In this episode of the Artz Insider Podcast, your hosts, Mark Ashton and Joe Howard, sit down with Nicola Bolton, an experienced Talent Agent from Nicola Bolton Management. Nicola offers invaluable advice for aspiring actors and creatives, sharing insights on how to navigate the competitive industry and secure reputable representation. She sheds light on the crucial steps to kickstart a successful career in the arts.

Additionally, we dive into Nicola's views on the recent challenges facing community theatres, discussing the impact of closures and the resilience of the performing arts sector. Don't miss out on the conversation, it is a must-listen for anyone passionate about a career in the performing arts.

In this episode of The Artz Insider Podcast, join hosts Joe Howard and Mark Ashton as they sit down with Ben Chane, the Artz Centre’s most experienced student, who’s just begun his exciting summer internship in theatre-making. In this conversation, the trio delve into Ben's journey, highlighting his transition from a dedicated Artz student to a passionate intern. They discuss the practical benefits of internships and apprenticeships, emphasizing the ways in which they prepare individuals for both the professional world and higher education. Plus Ben share’s his opinion on what schools could learn from training in the workplace.

In this instalment of the Artz Insider podcast, join hosts Mark and Joe as they sit down over Zoom with the brilliant minds behind the musical "Battle of Boat," composer Ethan Lewis Maltby and lyricist Jenna Donnelly; as they share their creative process, inspirations, and the behind-the-scenes stories that brought this captivating production to life.

With infectious passion and a wealth of experience, Ethan Lewis Maltby and Jenna Donnelly delve into the heart of "Battle of Boat." They offer listeners a rare glimpse into the development of the musical, exploring the challenges they faced and the triumphs they experienced along the way.

Through engaging anecdotes, personal insights, and fascinating behind-the-scenes revelations, Ethan and Jenna reveal the depth of their artistic vision. Discover the inspirations that sparked the creation of "Battle of Boat," from historical events to the courage of ordinary individuals. Gain a deeper understanding of the intricate balance between music and storytelling as Ethan discusses his melodic compositions, and Jenna sheds light on the process of crafting poignant and impactful lyrics.

Listeners are treated to exclusive behind-the-scenes details, from the early stages of writing and composing to the collaborative efforts that brought the show to life. Ethan and Jenna's love of their craft shines through as they share their creative journey and offer valuable pearls of wisdom for aspiring artists.

Whether you're a fan of "Battle of Boat," a lover of musical theater, or simply intrigued by the creative process, this episode is a must-listen. Join Ethan Lewis Maltby, Jenna Donnelly, and hosts Mark Ashton and Joe Howard as they take you on an unforgettable exploration of the captivating world of "Battle of Boat" and the power of musical storytelling.

In this episode, Mark and Joe talk to Josette Bushell-Mingo OBE, The Principal of the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama.

Previously the Head of Acting at Stockholm University of the Arts, Sweden, Josette is an award-winning actor and director whose career has included performances with the Royal Shakespeare Company, the National Theatre and the Manchester Royal Exchange. She was nominated for an Olivier Award, is the recipient of a TMA Award, and starred in the internationally acclaimed production Nina: A Story about Me and Nina Simone, now a documentary film for SVT Sweden.

For 13 years, Josette was the Artistic Director for The National Touring Swedish Deaf Theatre ensemble Tyst Teater, where her work focused on fostering the understanding, respect and potential of sign language arts and the artistic, linguistic and cultural rights of the deaf.

As a director, she was Founder and Artistic Director of PUSH, a Black-led theatre festival with the Young Vic Theatre. Through her work with PUSH, she was awarded an Order of the British Empire (OBE) for services to the arts, a Judy Craymer Award for Innovation, and the Southbank Cultural Diversity Award.

Born in London and based in Sweden from 2005 – 2021, Josette is an active spokesperson for inclusive arts and politics. She co-founded PUSH’s sister organisation in Sweden, TRYCK, which works to inspire and challenge the artistic and cultural representation of Afro-Swedes and African descent artists on national stages in Sweden. In 2021, Josette was awarded H.M. The King’s Medal 8th size with the ribbon of the Order of the Seraphim by H.M. King Carl XVI Gustaf.

She has served on the board of the Swedish Film Institute, as chairwoman for CinemAfrica, a Swedish Non-Profit organisation devoted to celebrating African and Diaspora film culture, and is Patron of the Unity Theatre, Liverpool.

As a director and teacher, Josette travels internationally giving lectures and workshops in the creation of sign language theatre, cultural diversity challenges and inclusion. She has taught in Stockholm, Malmö and Luleå theatre schools, LAMDA, the London College of Fashion, and New York University’s TISCH School of the Arts amongst others.

Step into a deeply personal episode of the Artz Insider Podcast, where Mark Ashton, our company director, engages in an heartfelt and thought-provoking conversation with his brother and as of this week, our former Company Manager, Mike Ashton. In this sincere and introspective interview, Mark and Mike delve into the gravity of Mike's decision to part ways with the Artz Centre, and the heartfelt exploration of what lies ahead on his journey.

With an air of sincerity and a touch of nostalgia, the brothers embark on a candid discussion, delving into the intricacies of their shared experiences within the Artz Centre. They navigate the emotional landscape, openly discussing the challenges, triumphs, and personal growth they've encountered along the way. It offers a rare glimpse into the depth of their bond as siblings, collaborators, and individuals with distinct paths of their own. They reflect on pivotal moments, vulnerable conversations, and the profound impact the Artz Centre has had on their lives and the lives of those they've touched.

Join Mark and Mike Ashton in this poignant episode of the Artz Insider Podcast, where they invite listeners to embrace the uncertainties and possibilities that accompany life's most significant decisions.

This week, we’re bringing you an insider throwback and going into our Artz Archive. do you remember Say It? well for those of you that don’t… it was our online acting competition during Lockdown. In the competition, we had a whole host of guest judges give their feedback and advice to young performers. One of those judges was Sami Robinson, an actor, director and producer who teachers acting across the UK at leading drama schools. Sami chatted to Mark on the Say It podcast, and listening to it three years later, we think its still such good advice. so we’ve grabbed it from our archives and brought it back for all you lot to listen to. Here’s what Sami had to say when she was asked about what performers need to do in order to deliver a great monologue.

In this week’s, episode of the Artz Insider podcast, Mark and Joe sat down over Zoom with expert vocal coach Grace Galloway. Grace has recently finished performing in the UK tour of the hit musical Blood Brothers and works with clients around the world to help them understand their voice. In the episode, Grace gives her advice to young performers about receiving feedback as well as both the art and science of singing.