In this week’s issue of The Stage:
Susan Elkin examines theatre for children, as companies begin to aim productions specifically at the under-fives
As England’s workplaces went smoke-free from July 1, solicitors Kiersten Lucas and Leonora Twynam advise on how the ban affects performers and arts festivals
Pegasus and Oxford Youth Theatre received planning permission to build a new theatre last month. Susan Elkin finds out how the project is progressing
Mentalist Marc Salem talks about the secret behind his tricks — and why they let him down in a very painful way on his last visit to London
TV presenter Ben Shephard trained as a dancer, so it’s little surprise to see him defect from ITV2’s The Xtra Factor to present BBC1’s new Saturday night dance show, Dance X. Mary Comerford talks to him about live TV and his move to prime time
Former Ballet Boyz Michael Nunn and William Trevitt formed George Piper Dances in 2001, working together ever since. The pair talk to Katie Colombus about producing, partnerships and being the poster boys of dance
Diminutive stuntman Riky Ash has carved out a successful career doubling up for both adults and children on TV. He talks to Matthew Hemly about how kung fu started his career and the highs and lows of his extraordinary work
Backstage: Geoffrey Joyce meets the team behind Collectif Acrobatique de Tangier, who performed at Camden’s Roundhouse as part of the Circus Front Festival
As Procul Harum’s classic hit A Whiter Shade of Pale celebrates its 40th year, the groups’ singer and pianist Douglas McPherson shares his memories
Columnists this week include Ian Herbert on why he thinks Sir John Tusa could save the Theatre Museum; Richard Jordan on the long term effects of theatre recruitment by TV talent show; Dear John on reviving a local theatre; Barbara Eifler on why it’s more important to recognise current backstage staff than worry about training more and more; and Patrick Newley on the dangers of over-analysing variety.
We also carry reviews of several student showcases:
- Spotlight Student Showcase, June 10-11
- Mountview Postgraduate musical theatre, July 5
- CSSD BA (Hons) Acting, May 2-3
- Cygnet Training Theatre, June 26
- Birmingham School of Acting - Red Company BA (Hons) Acting and Graduate Diploma in Acting, May 15
- Birmingham School of Acting - Blue Company BA (Hons) Acting and Graduate Diploma in Acting, May 22
- The Arts Institute Bournemouth - BA (Hons) Acting
- The Stephen Sondheim Society Prize for Student Performer of the Year, May 13
So if you or your friends were in one of those showcases, make sure you grab your copy today!
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