In this week’s issue of The Stage:
The Passion scriptwriter Frank Deasy tells Matthew Hemley what inspired him to pen the story of Jesus’ last days for the BBC, and why he found the human approach the most dramatic of all
As the successful US rock’n’roll musical Jersey Boys transfers to the West End, director Des McAnuff talks to Nuala Calvi about the challenges he faced brining the story of Frankie Valli and the Four Season to the stage, his encounters with the Mafia and what sets this show apart from the standard jukebox musical.
Insight: At least half a million teenagers are now taking drama, dance or singing lessons every week. Susan Elkin looks at the market of independent theatre schools for children and assesses its development
In light of the government’s plans to fund state school excursions to ballet, opera and classical music concerts, Hilary Strong, director of the National Council for Drama Training, considers how youngsters view various forms of theatre and how important it is for children and their parents
Dear John: “Can I further my career as a dancer better as a solo artist or as part of a dance troupe?”
Postgraduate Training: From scriptwriting to performance and directing, Susan Elkin gives an overview of the wide range of postgraduate training available and advises on how to go about choosing the right course and securing funding for your study
Financial Services: Although it’s not a subject many actors like to dwell on, keeping finances in order is one of the most important elements of the profession. News editor of Accountancy Age Alex Hawkes outlines his top money-saving tips, while showbiz accountant Robert Breckman looks at the problems facing grant-aided companies since Arts Council England announced its cuts
Former How Do You Solve a Problem Like Maria? and Any Dream Will Do judge Zoe Tyler joins The Stage with a regular weekly column reviewing BBC1’s new theatre recruitment show, I’d Do Anything
Leaping back to London after a 25-year absence, the New York City Ballet is performing at the Coliseum this month. Kevin Berry talks to NYCB teacher Sean Lavery and principal dancer Jonathan Stafford about the ongoing influence of the company’s founding fathers
Thirty years on from when it was first televised, Bob Hoskins shares his memories of starring in Dennis Potter’s seminal musical trilogy, Pennies From Heaven, with Charles Norton
Columnists: Ian Herbert, Richard Jordan, Clive Barnes, Patrick Newley
Showpeople: Interviews with Amy Manson, Paddy Cuneen
Plus all the usual news, reviews, national UK theatre listings and recruitment ads.
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