Set across three atmospheric floors of the stunning Grade II listed People’s Hall — featuring ornate staircases, historic cellars, and mysterious subterranean caves — Apple of Discord delivers a unique immersive theatre experience where divine drama unfolds all around you. Discover what makes this production one of the must-see live events of the summer, running from 20–24 July, with tickets on sale now.

Starring Danny Bayne, known for his work on Hollyoaks, alongside Mia Austin, recognised from Call the Midwife and Ludwig, the touring production promises audiences a faithful yet refreshed take on one of Britain’s most iconic sitcoms.

During an exclusive interview, Danny and Mia shared behind-the-scenes stories from their demanding ten-month UK tour, including unforgettable on-stage mishaps, practical jokes among cast members, and the challenges of bringing such legendary characters to life on stage. The pair also reflected on the importance of preparation and confidence, drawing comparisons between preparing for performances, auditions, and the pressures students face during exam season.

The live production of Fawlty Towers runs at the Theatre Royal Nottingham from 2–6 June and is suitable for audiences aged 8 and above. Tickets are available now through the official Theatre Royal & Concert Hall website.

In this episode, I discuss, with Alexej, the logistics of putting together a tour and how companies are making ballet and opera more accessible to new generations of audiences across the UK.

Following multiple sold-out UK tours and an overwhelmingly warm reception from audiences nationwide, Imperial Classical Ballet are proudly bringing The Nutcracker, along with a live orchestra, to Vaillant Live on the 7th November 2026. Tickets are onsale now and can be purchased from the Vaillant Live website.

This week, I’m joined by Monique Young, who stars as Charity Barnum, to discuss the heart behind the production and the woman determined to keep Phineas Barnum grounded amidst fame and spectacle. We also dive into the extraordinary talent required to bring the show to life, from juggling and fire breathing to the high-energy choreography audiences are loving. With exam season underway, Monique also shares her top advice for aspiring performers and those hoping to break into the theatre industry. Tickets for Barnum the Musical are on sale now as the production tours the UK to rave 4 and 5-star reviews, featuring choreography by Oti Mabuse and music by Cy Coleman. Theatre fans in the East Midlands can book tickets through the Nottingham Playhouse website.

In part two of this exclusive feature, Derby-born performer Kristian Cunningham shares his inspiring journey from his early days with Erewash Musical Society to landing the iconic role of Seymour in this major professional production. Kristian also opens up about co-founding KTStudios, the realities of working in the theatre industry and the challenges young performers face when balancing arts education, qualifications and career ambitions.

Expect honest conversations, backstage insight and plenty of passion for musical theatre as we explore what it really takes to build a career on stage.

From 30 May to 20 June 2026, audiences can catch Kristian Cunningham alongside Amena El Kindy in Little Shop of Horrors at Derby Theatre. Featuring live actor-musicians, creative captioning, and beloved songs including Suddenly Seymour, Skid Row (Downtown), and Feed Me (Git It), this cult-classic musical promises an unforgettable summer theatre experience.

Tickets available now via Derby Theatre.

Presented by Derby Theatre and Northern Stage, Little Shop of Horrors is the iconic dark comedy musical blending sci-fi, Motown and B-movie horror that has entertained audiences for more than 40 years.

Kristian shares how his passion for theatre began with amateur dramatics in Derbyshire, before training at The Urdang Academy. He opens up about life beyond London as a working actor, building a successful performing arts academy in the East Midlands and balancing teaching the next generation of performers with professional stage roles.

From musical theatre and actor training to regional arts and creative careers outside the capital, this inspiring conversation explores why you don’t need to live in London to build a thriving career in the arts.

The exhibition brings together an inspiring group of artists, including George Shaw, James Pyman, Billy Hughes, and Penny McCarthy. At the heart of the show is McCarthy’s work, deeply influenced by the Renaissance master Titian.

McCarthy was granted rare access to Titian’s lesser-known piece, The Submersion of the Pharaoh’s Army in the Red Sea, spending six months studying the artwork and his techniques. Her research, alongside rare woodcuts of Titian’s original works, forms a key part of this unique exhibition and will be available to see at this exhibition.

In this thought-provoking episode, Kirsty speaks with Penny McCarthy and curator Ashley Gallant about how art created over 500 years ago continues to influence contemporary practices - from modern urban landscapes and painting, photography to comics and even AI-generated art.

Drawn Through Time opens this weekend at Lakeside Arts in Nottingham and runs until 26 July. Entry is free, with a range of guided tours and talks available throughout the exhibition. For more details, visit the Lakeside Arts website.

Image made from details of: How I wanted to be that sky – to hold every flying and falling at once, 2021 by Penny McCarthy and The submersion of Pharaoh’s Army in the Red Sea, c. 1549 by Titian

items such as Nokia 3210s and a yellow sticker bargains before going on to talk about the plot of the Long Eaton based play. They go on to talk about the emotional rollercoaster, Nottingham based, writer Jane Upton has put them on as they prepare for opening night.

First Year Juniors, Long Eaton, 1987. Kylie’s about to hit number one, and Jess meets Billy for the first time. There’s conflict, competition and mutual intrigue, but they quickly become inseparable: Proper soulmates – the kind who finish each other’s sentences and overshare about first kisses. As they pursue different paths, him in the big city, her in their fading hometown, they can’t escape the pull of their friendship – or the arguments and jealousy that come with it. Following them across the decades – from making mixtapes and endless summers, to the chaos of parenthood, Scenes from a Friendship is a warm, funny, and deeply felt look at the bond you share with the person who’s shaped your life, who knows all your flaws but loves you regardless.

Tickets are on sale, now, for “Scenes from a Friendship” . The show opens with its world premiere on Friday 15 May and due to demand the run, for the show, has now

been extended to 12 June 2026. Tickets start at £18 and can be bought from the Nottingham Playhouse website.

truth and lies, and the whether we can believe all that we see, and to consider, in a world of darkness, what do we really need?

spoke Theatre Arts students & actors Olivia Osbourne, who plays Elsie, and Liv Murphy who plays Winifred as well as Isaac Raven, student marketing assistant and Senior Lecturer Amanda Wallace about the true story inspiration behind “The Light Turns Blue”. They also talk about what it is like to be students at a professional “learning theatre” which gives them access to key areas, besides acting, such as stage management, wardrobe and marketing.

Tickets are on sale, now, for “Light Burns Blue” which runs on 22 & 23 May, with both matinee and evening shows available. All performances will also be captioned. Tickets can be bought via the Derby Theatre website, for just £10 with discounts available for under 26s and University of Derby students.

Derby Theatre offers valuable industry experience and contacts. This course (Theatre Arts) is unique; no other university level course is housed in a producing theatre. You will be at the centre of this professional environment developing skills in acting, devising and directing for your career as a professional theatre artist. This theatre arts programme will develop your theatre and performance skills such as acting, directing and devising for your career as a professional theatre artist. For more details on the course please see the Derby University website.

Gillian Sewell's journey of honouring her Derby born son, Lewis Sewell, is nothing short of inspiring. After his passing in 2020 due to cancer, Gillian and her family set up the Lewis Sewell Trust, under Lewis’ instructions.

They empower young aspiring artists, ensuring that Lewis’ vision lives on, gifting scholarships to those who cannot afford to go to drama and theatre school but has a talent that will earn them a paid career. Every scholarship awarded, every opportunity created, is a testament to Lewis's spirit.

Kirsty Corbett began asking Lewis’ mum, Gillian, about how she finds fulfilling Lewis’ wishes for aspiring performers before chatting with the fundraising concert's Producer, Mark Robert Petty, about how he got involved with the Derby based charity.

🎟️ Tickets are on sale now via the Derby Theatre website for A Musical Spectacular on Sunday 3 May 2026 at 7.30pm. This spectacular concert will feature an all-star West End cast, Carolyn Maitland (Woman in White), Luke McCall (Phantom of the Opera, Les Miserables), Laura Pick (previous Elphaba in Wicked), Luke Suri (Frankie goes to Hollywood), Manon Taris (Les Miserables and Phantom of the Opera) and Chris Weeks (Spotify sensation & currently in Buddy Holly Story) performing alongside talented pupils from local colleges including Embark Federation and Kristian Thomas Company. Together they will perform beloved songs from musicals including The Greatest Showman, The Phantom of the Opera, Love Never Dies, West Side Story, Little Shop of Horrors, Hamilton, Back To The Future, The Buddy Holly Story, Guys & Dolls, Sunset Boulevard, Jersey Boys, Wicked, Les Misérables, Rent, Grease, Dear Evan Hansen, Mamma Mia! and many more.

The show closes, at Lakeside Arts, on Sunday 19 April 2026, and there are a limited amount of tickets left via the Lakeside Arts website.

In the first of this two part special, I chat with Ashley Gallant who is the Head of Visual Arts at Lakeside. He chats about his role and the logistics in making sure that the original artworks of Andy Warhol are both cared for and presented in an accessible way for the general public.

The second part of this series is also now LIVE! Head over to the Arts & Toast podcast with me, Kirsty, to hear from Ashley and also Ceri Lewis from Artist Rooms about their goal to make art accessible to the public, outside of areas such as London and Edinburgh.

When Rachael Hawnt auditioned for a ITV show with zero expectations, she discovered a love for music she'd not had before. It was a leap into the unknown after months of lockdown - turns out, it was just what she needed!

Fast forward to 2026 and Rachael, winner of ITV’s Starstruck, is now taking on an international tour and celebrating every decade of Cher’s incredible career. Prepare to be dazzled by disco hits and party to pop chart-toppers as Rachael’s incredible talent shines through and makes you ‘Believe’.

What’s your comfort zone? Maybe it’s time to step out and try something new! Listen to Rachael chat about her journey, here!

🎟️ Tickets are onsale for the entire tour, including Demontfort Hall in Leicester on 18 April 2026, now.

#MusicJourney #LivePerformance #Inspiration #GrowthMindset #StepOut

🎶 From childhood memories of Elvis to collaborating with incredible musicians such as Toyah Wilcox and pianist Mark Alexander (who played with Meat Loaf), Steve is proud to bringing the 50th anniversary concert of "Bat Out of Hell" to Derby's Vaillant Live in November 2027. Tickets are onsale via Ticketmaster, now.

Drawing on experience working with major dance companies worldwide, the initiative’s founder identified a critical gap in support for hip hop artists—particularly when it comes to financial sustainability. This apprenticeship aims to remove those barriers, enabling creativity to thrive without economic pressure.

With an overwhelmingly positive response from the dance community, Just Us Dance Theatre is leading the conversation around accessibility and inclusion in the arts for dancers and choreographers. As they prepare to open their UK tour at Lakeside Arts in Nottingham next month (April 2026), the episode explores how alternative career pathways like this can empower the next generation of dancers and reshape the future of hip hop. Joseph also talks about a Q&A event and a rare opportunity to see a tech rehearsal.

Listeners are invited to reflect on how the dance industry can become more accessible and to support emerging talent through innovative programs like this one.

🎟️ Tickets can be purchased from Lakeside Arts

The National Theatre’s Connections festival is a nationwide youth theatre programme for ages 13–19 (up to 26 for additional needs), involving 250+ companies and 6,000+ young people across the UK every year. Participants perform new plays by leading writers, progressing from local shows to regional partner theatres, with selected groups reaching the Summer Festival finale. At Derby Theatre performers will include Inspire Coventry College, Burton & South Derbyshire College, Sydney Stringer Academy, Flying High and Allestree Woodlands as well as Derby Theatre’s youth theatre performing “Sycamore Gap.”

🎟️ Tickets for all of the performances, as well as the workshops, are available from the Derby Theatre website.

Kirsty Corbett spoke with the creator of Q The Music, and professional trumpet player, Warren Ringham about the upcoming concerts. He talks about his lifelong love of Bond, choosing the right pieces of music for the concert & what it’s like having Caroline Bliss on his contacts list in his phone.

Compered by Miss Moneypenny, Caroline Bliss guides the audience through the world-famous scores - sharing fascinating snippets from her Bond experience and anecdotes of the Timothy Dalton era. Fans of the 007 franchise can experience the magic live, with performances scheduled at Vaillant Live in Derby on Sunday 22 March 2026, and the Belgrade Theatre in Coventry on Friday 27 March 2026.

This episode is a must-listen for Bond enthusiasts, film score lovers, and anyone interested in the artistry behind one of cinema’s most iconic soundtracks.

🎟️ Tickets are on sale now and can be bought from venues or directly from James Bond Concert Spectacular

The journey of "The Choir of Man" started with a casual conversation in a pub. Just two guys, a beer garden and a wild idea about men singing together - who knew it would evolve into a powerful statement about male friendship and mental health?

They’ve been touring the world and the reception has been incredible! From pubs to stages, this unique show is breaking down barriers and encouraging men to talk openly about their feelings.

You're now invited to join them in the Jungle, as it begins its UK tour, in celebrating community and the joy of singing together! 🎶

What does your community mean to you? Let’s keep the conversation going!

👉 Link in bio to catch the full story and details on our tour, including Nottingham Theatre Royal from 9 - 13 June 2026.

We also explore APPLAUSE Youth Dance Festival, FABRIC Dance’s inspiring annual festival celebrating young dancers aged 11–24 from all genres, styles and backgrounds. For the first time, the festival is coming to Nottingham’s Concert Hall on 11–12 April, bringing together rising dance talent for an unforgettable showcase of creativity, passion and performance. Have a listen to discover how FABRIC Dance is supporting the next generation of UK dance artists, what audiences can expect from the APPLAUSE Dance Festival being held in the East Midlands.

🎟️ Ticket details

In this podcast, the East Midlands based singer-songwriter shares honest insights into the realities of the UK independent music scene, from playing small pub venues to festival stages like Y Not Festival. This year Isaac is documenting his journey, exploring the barriers many emerging artists face when trying to build a career without industry backing or connections. If you’re interested in independent music, singer-songwriters, live gigs and the behind-the-scenes reality of becoming a musician in the UK, then this interview will be right up your street! Oh, and Kazoo knowledge is also shared. Enjoy!

🔗 Isaac Neilson on Instagram

You may recognise John Tams from the hit TV series Sharpe, starring alongside Sean Bean, but his greatest passion has always been music. In this fascinating conversation, John recalls the unexpected moment when celebrated author Michael Morpurgo first asked him to help develop a "project" during a casual dinner in a Derbyshire pub. John reflects on how music helps communicate emotion, deepen storytelling and connect audiences to the themes at the heart of War Horse including the human impact of war and conflict both past and present. The episode also features a spontaneous and moving recital from John himself, offering listeners a rare chance to experience his music in an intimate setting - you will not hear this anywhere else but here, on Arts & Toast.

For fans of theatre, folk music, storytelling and the creative process behind major stage productions, this is a unique conversation you won’t hear anywhere else.

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🔗 War Horse on stage

🔗 John Tams

Neill explains how the Arboretum uses immersive experiences combining light, sound and storytelling to create meaningful events that connect visitors of all ages. These carefully designed experiences allow families and communities to both celebrate seasonal moments and remember the service and sacrifice of those who have served their countries.

From event design to audience experience, this conversation reveals how the arts can transform remembrance into something powerful, reflective and shared across generations.

If you’re interested in arts in public spaces, cultural events, remembrance, or immersive experiences, this episode offers a fascinating look at how creativity can shape meaningful national moments.

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🔗 National Memorial Arboretum

The story has delighted young readers and families, and now it has been reimagined as a vibrant theatrical production.

Joining the conversation is actor Emily Attridge-Cox who plays the character Gertie. Together they discuss the creative process behind adapting a much love children's book into a live performance from storytelling to puppetry - they're all about creating a magical experience for their audiences.

Designed for families with children aged 3 and over, the show celebrates imagination, resilience and the joy of theatre for young audiences.

If you love family theatre, children’s books brought to life on stage, or the creative process behind adapting stories for performance, this episode offers a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at children’s theatre in the UK.

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🔗 LAS Theatre

How does a theatre show capture audiences around the world for more than three decades?

In this episode of Arts & Toast, Vanya Polunin speaks about growing up with his dad - internationally renowned clown and theatre creator Slava Polunin, the visionary behind the iconic Slava's Snow Show.

Winner of the prestigious Laurence Olivier Award, the production has toured globally for over 30 years, delighting audiences of all ages with its unique blend of visual theatre, humour and imagination. In this conversation, Vanya shares stories from behind the scenes, reflects on the legacy of the show and explores why its message about play, wonder and creativity continues to resonate across cultures.

If you love theatre, performance or clowning - or the stories behind world-famous productions - this episode offers a fascinating insight into the enduring magic of one of theatre’s most celebrated shows.

Note: This interview originally aired on Erewash Sound in October 2025.

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🔗 Slava's Snow Show

What does it take to deliver a major arts festival—and why do cities fight to keep them?

In this episode of Arts & Toast, Phil Hargreaves speaks with Kirsty about the cultural importance of Derby Feste, one of the East Midlands' most celebrated Arts festivals.

From programming and scheduling to securing funding and community support, Phil shares the behind-the-scenes realities of producing a large-scale arts event. He also explains why festivals play a vital role in sustaining creativity, tourism and community engagement in cities like Derby, contributing to the local economy.

The conversation highlights the commitment of Derby City Council in ensuring Derby Feste returned for another year, in 2025, demonstrating how local partnerships help keep the arts alive and accessible for everyone.

If you’re interested in arts festivals, cultural leadership, arts funding or the future of UK arts sector, this episode offers a fascinating insight into how events like Derby Feste come to life.

Note: This interview originally aired on Erewash Sound in September 2025.

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Please note that this interview originally aired on Erewash Sound in January 2026.

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🔗 Lydia Leaf's website

What does it take to build a career in the performing arts outside London?

In this episode of Arts & Toast, actor Kristian Cunningham speaks with Kirsty about his journey into theatre, his deep love of the Arts. Kristian talks about why BTEC's are as important as A Level's and why expanding performing arts opportunities beyond London is so important for the next generation of performers, here, in the East Midlands.

Kristian also shares his experience playing the lead role of Jamie in the acclaimed musical Everybody's Talking About Jamie, a production that has inspired audiences across the UK with its story of identity, confidence and following your dreams.

From training and career pathways to the realities of working in theatre today, this episode offers valuable insight for anyone considering a future in acting, musical theatre, or the performing arts industry.

If you're looking for career inspiration, theatre insights, and advice for aspiring performers, this is an episode you’ll want on your listen again list.

*This interview originally aired on Erewash Sound in October 2025. Please note that the show has now closed.

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🔗 KTStudios

What does it take to change careers and become an internationally recognised artist?

In this inspiring episode, we speak with British sculptor Kate MccGwire, known worldwide for her striking sculptures created entirely from ethically sourced feathers. Recorded during her major exhibition at Lakeside Arts (Nottingham, East Midlands), the conversation reflects on 25 years of her artistic practice and the deeply personal journey behind her work. Before becoming a full-time artist, Kate worked as an interior designer – a path that ultimately led her back to her true passion: creating powerful sculptural forms inspired by nature. In this episode she shares how she made the leap into the Arts and the challenges of building a creative career.

If you’re thinking about a career change into the arts, studying fine art or sculpture or simply love discovering the stories behind contemporary artists, this episode is a must-listen.

Note: This interview originally aired in September 2025 on Erewash Sound. The exhibition discussed has since closed.

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🔗 Kate MccGwire