Welcome to Whispers in the Wings, the podcast that takes you behind the scenes of the theatrical world! Join host Australian-based Associate Producer and Stage Manager Joshua Broadbent as he welcomes seasoned industry professionals to share their fascinating career journeys, from humble beginnings to the exhilarating present.
With a focus on stage managers and technical creatives, each episode dives deep into their experiences, passions, and even the challenges they've faced along the way. This podcast is a must-listen for stage managers, theatre enthusiasts, and anyone aspiring to pursue a career in the industry. With an active working creative as your guide, get ready for an informative and entertaining exploration of the backstage realm.
Whispers In The Wings is proudly a part of the Broadway Podcast Network.
Questions can be submitted any time on Instagram @WhispersInTheWings.
Whispers in the Wings acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past, present and future. We acknowledge that sovereignty was never ceded. Always was, always will be Aboriginal Land.
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Reimagining how (and why) we make art
jeudi 11 décembre 2025 • Durée 55:34
In this episode of Whispers in the Wings, Joshua is joined by multi-hyphenate artist Evan J. Lawson (he/they) — composer, writer, curator, singer, conductor, and Artistic Director of Melbourne’s Forest Collective. With a career that refuses to sit neatly in one box, Evan shares how following multiple creative threads has shaped a practice that lives at the crossroads of music, theatre, opera and community.
Together, they dive into the surprisingly powerful world of Tessitura (yes, the ticketing CRM!), why learning the so-called “unsexy” skills can be the key to staying employed, and how Forest Collective creates brave, interdisciplinary spaces for new work — including an immersive, multi-room opera set inside a labyrinth. Evan also opens up about burnout, boundaries, the realities of funding and ticket pricing, and why accessible, risk-taking art is crucial if we want future generations to fall in love with live performance.
In this episode, we chat about:• Wearing multiple creative “hats” and building a portfolio career in the arts• How learning Tessitura helped Evan pay the bills and survive COVID• The origins and ethos of Forest Collective, and supporting artistically vulnerable work• Rest, boundaries and what it really takes to lead an indie company long-term• Ticket pricing, accessibility and why audiences will come back if you meet them where they are• Evan’s immersive labyrinth opera and his next steps in electronic/acousmatic music
If anything in today’s episode brought up questions around balance, burnout or sustainability in the arts, Support Act offers a free, confidential wellbeing helpline for anyone working in Australian music or performing arts: 1800 959 500. If you’re listening from overseas or outside the industry, please reach out to your local support service.
Follow us on Instagram: @whispersinthewings
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Whispers In The Wings is produced by Marker Creative Co, and is a proud member of the Broadway Podcast Network.
Whispers in the Wings acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past, present and future. We acknowledge that sovereignty was never ceded. Always was, always will be Aboriginal Land.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
It’s knowing when not to press the button - with Dale Norris
Saison 3 · Épisode 3
jeudi 20 novembre 2025 • Durée 53:47
Join Joshua as he chats with freelance Production Manager, Operations Specialist, and Special Effects Supervisor Dale Norris, whose career spans theatre, large-scale city events, and lighting up the sky with meticulously crafted pyrotechnic spectacles.
Dale shares his journey from studying technical production at QUT to finding his place in event operations, production management, and ultimately designing and delivering fireworks for some of Queensland’s biggest celebrations. He opens up about balancing study with industry work, moving from backstage technician to client-facing creative, and how switching to a 9–5 reshaped his wellbeing and work–life balance.
Follow Dale on instagram @dalenorris
This episode touches on topics of mental health and wellbeing in live performance and events. If you or anyone you know is in need of support, please reach out to Support Act, who offer a free, confidential counselling service for anyone working in Australian music or the arts by calling 1800 959 500. If you’re overseas or outside the industry, please reach out to your local support service.
See Feedspot's Top 10 Australian Theatre Podcasts
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Follow us on Instagram: @whispersinthewings
Follow us on TikTok: @whispersitwings
Follow us on Facebook: Whispers In The Wings Podcast
Whispers In The Wings is produced by Marker Creative Co, and is a proud member of the Broadway Podcast Network.
Whispers in the Wings acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past, present and future. We acknowledge that sovereignty was never ceded. Always was, always will be Aboriginal Land.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
You start when the queen is ready and the vibes are right - with Caitie Murphy
jeudi 30 octobre 2025 • Durée 58:44
Join Josh as he chats with stage manager Caitie Murphy, who swears drag shows are “held together with gaff tape and prayer,” and whose work spans theatre, opera and the glitter-filled world of drag.
Caitie shares her journey from studying music to calling operas and managing the beautiful chaos of drag shows. She opens up about the realities of working in nightlife venues, the importance of safety and boundaries, and how her love of music and theatre collide in unexpected ways.
In this episode, we discuss what it’s like to manage shows that thrive on improvisation, the challenges of working in non-traditional spaces, the overlap between drag and theatre, and how to protect your wellbeing while keeping the show running smoothly.
This episode touches on topics of safety and wellbeing within live performance spaces. If you or anyone you know is in need of support, please reach out to Support Act, who offer a free, confidential counselling service for anyone working in Australian music or the arts by calling 1800 959 500. If you’re overseas or outside the industry, please reach out to your local support service.
You can find Caitie online at caitiemurphysm.com.au, on Instagram at @caitiemurph
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Follow us on Instagram: @whispersinthewingsFollow us on TikTok: @whispersinthewingsFollow us on Facebook: Whispers In The Wings Podcast
Whispers In The Wings is produced by Marker Creative Co, and is a proud member of the Broadway Podcast Network.
Whispers in the Wings acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past, present and future. We acknowledge that sovereignty was never ceded. Always was, always will be Aboriginal Land.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Rewriting the script of my theatre journey - with Joshua Broadbent
jeudi 9 octobre 2025 • Durée 45:15
Whispers in the Wings is back! Guest host Tim Iffland (Popcorn Podcast) turns the mic on Josh for a candid chat about life after stage management, career pivots, and finding balance in the creative chaos. From backstage to Producing and beyond, Josh opens up about burnout, growth, and rediscovering the magic of theatre — one act at a time.
Connect with Tim on Instagram, and listen to Popcorn Podcast with Leigh and Tim wherever you find your podcasts!
World Mental Health Day: Take a moment to check in with yourself and those around you. If you need support in Australia, call Support Act at 1800 959 500 or visit supportact.org.au. If you’re listening elsewhere, reach out to your local mental health services.
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Follow on Instagram: @whispersinthewings
Follow on TikTok: @whispersinthewings
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Send questions to: whispersinthewingspodcast@gmail.com
Whispers In The Wings is produced by Marker Creative Co, and is a proud member of the Broadway Podcast Network.
Whispers in the Wings acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past, present and future. We acknowledge that sovereignty was never ceded. Always was, always will be Aboriginal Land.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Places, Please! — A Season 3 Sneak Peek
mardi 30 septembre 2025 • Durée 06:07
Whispers in the Wings is back for Season 3! After two years away, the podcast returns with new conversations, fresh insights into the magic of theatre, and plenty of tips and tricks to take backstage with you.
This sneak peek episode gives you a taste of what’s coming this season, with clips from the first three guest spot episodes:
➡️ Caitie Murphy — Stage Manager
➡️ Dale Norris — Production Manager / Special Effects Supervisor
➡️ Evan J Lawson — Artistic Director
The first full episode drops on October 10 (aka International Stage Managers’ Day), where Josh shares what he’s been up to since the last season and sets the stage for what’s ahead.
New episodes stream every three weeks, with Toolbox Talks popping up occasionally . Follow now and share with your theatre friends and community — you’ll find Whispers in the Wings wherever all good podcasts are found.
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Follow us on Instagram: @whispersinthewings
Follow us on TikTok: @whispersinthewings
Follow us on Facebook: Whispers In The Wings Podcast
Whispers In The Wings is produced by Marker Creative Co, and is a proud member of the Broadway Podcast Network.
Whispers in the Wings acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past, present and future. We acknowledge that sovereignty was never ceded. Always was, always will be Aboriginal Land.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Establishing great foundations to ensure a shows success - with guest host Monique Orton
Saison 2 · Épisode 3
mardi 15 août 2023 • Durée 01:13:14
Join Joshua Broadbent as he learns all about the world of sound with special guest host Monique Orton.
Monique Orton is live entertainment tech working in Australian theatre, cabaret, music, burlesque, circus and comedy. She shares her experiences on YouTube, aiming to provide fans with a behind-the-scenes look and inspire aspiring technicians. Currently, she works as a Radio Mic Technician for "Tina: The Tina Turner Musical" in Sydney.
In this episode we discuss the importance of sound and stage management working closely together, navigating technical challenges of working on the outdoor production of Phantom Of The Opera, how working with great people make a huge impact to your experience, and the importance of finding that work/life balance to look after your mental and physical health.
This episode touches on topics of mental health and the importance of finding work/life balance, if you or any one you know is in need of support please reach out to Support Act who offer a free phone counselling service for anyone working in Australian music or the arts by calling 1800 959 500. If you are overseas or not in the industry please reach out to your relevant service providers.
Connect with Monique on Instagram, subscribe to her on YouTube and join her discord
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Follow us on Instagram: @whispersinthewings
Follow us on Twitter: @whispersitwings
Follow us on Facebook: Whispers In The Wings Podcast
Whispers In The Wings is produced by Marker Creative Co, and is a proud member of the Broadway Podcast Network.
Whispers in the Wings acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past, present and future. We acknowledge that sovereignty was never ceded. Always was, always will be Aboriginal Land.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Pushing the boundaries of “traditional theatre” - with guest host Daniel Story
Saison 2 · Épisode 2
dimanche 9 juillet 2023 • Durée 40:41
On this episode of Whispers In The Wings Josh is joined by Daniel Story, a Sydney-based theatre practitioner specialising in stage management for experimental, physical, and durational performances. Daniel strives to be part of impactful storytelling teams, particularly in experimental theatre, physical theatre, and durational performances.
The duo discuss durational performances and how vital a stage manager is to them, the importance of de-rolling not only as an actor but as a creative too and how find out how to stage manage a performer hanging 20 meters above Sydney Harbour on a 2.7 tonne intricately sculpted block of ice.
Connect with Daniel on Instagram
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Follow us on Instagram: @whispersinthewings
Follow us on Twitter: @whispersitwings
Follow us on Facebook: Whispers In The Wings Podcast
Whispers In The Wings is produced by Marker Creative Co, and is a proud member of the Broadway Podcast Network.
Whispers in the Wings acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past, present and future. We acknowledge that sovereignty was never ceded. Always was, always will be Aboriginal Land.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Don't forget the blu tack - with guest host Darren Kowacki
Saison 2 · Épisode 1
dimanche 25 juin 2023 • Durée 47:18
To celebrate the launch of Season 2 Josh is joined by Stage Manager turned Production Manager Darren Kowacki.
Darren Kowacki has been immersed in the entertainment industry for two decades, taking on creative and production roles. With a background in stage management and production, he has contributed to numerous musical productions such as "Priscilla Queen of the Desert," "School of Rock," "King Kong," and more. Currently, he serves as a Senior Production Manager at CVP Events, Film & TV, and works as the video associate designer for the musical "&Juliet.
In this episode the Darren gives insight into the changes that have occurred in the industry over the past two decades, how to prepare yourself to tour a production overseas (and the importance of packing enough blu tack), and how he found himself migrating from stage manager to production manager.
Connect with Darren on LinkedIn and find out more about the Stage Managers Association
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Follow us on Instagram: @whispersinthewings
Follow us on Twitter: @whispersitwings
Follow us on Facebook: Whispers In The Wings Podcast
Whispers In The Wings is produced by Marker Creative Co, and is a proud member of the Broadway Podcast Network.
Whispers in the Wings acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past, present and future. We acknowledge that sovereignty was never ceded. Always was, always will be Aboriginal Land.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
How to manage a show with a real live baby onstage - with guest host Annah Jacobs
Saison 1 · Épisode 7
mercredi 5 octobre 2022 • Durée 30:48
This week New Zealand Stage Manager Annah Jacobs drops by the studio to join Josh as this week's guest host. Annah talks about what life is like touring New Zealand, she gives the listener a great tip on how to spike using electrical tape, we hear about out how the pandemic lead her to study a Cert in Project Management and we find out how the hell you manage a show with a REAL baby onstage!!
In Act Two the duo discuss how the SM role has change with covid safety responsibilities, as well as share an insight into what they wish they knew before starting in theatre.
Follow Annah on Instagram: @aj.backstage
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If you'd like to ask a question to be answered on the podcast you can send them via the links below.
Follow us on Instagram: @whispersinthewings
Follow us on Twitter: @whispersitwings
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Whispers In The Wings is produced by Marker Creative Co.
Whispers in the Wings acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past, present and future. We acknowledge that sovereignty was never ceded. Always was, always will be Aboriginal Land.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Toolbox Talk: Roles within Stage Management
Saison 1
mercredi 21 septembre 2022 • Durée 08:58
Join Joshua on his first solo episode of Whispers in the Wings as he gathers you for another Toolbox Talk. On this weeks episode he answers one of the most asked questions from the audience... "What are the roles within Stage Management". Theatre is ever evolving and changing, and while there are many areas within theatre this episode is focused towards musical theatre.
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Follow us on Instagram: @whispersinthewings
Follow us on Twitter: @whispersitwings
Follow us on Facebook: Whispers In The Wings Podcast
Whispers In The Wings is produced by Marker Creative Co.
Whispers in the Wings acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past, present and future. We acknowledge that sovereignty was never ceded. Always was, always will be Aboriginal Land.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices