Explore every episode of the podcast Call To Stage with Amber Davies
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 144 - Sam Ryder on Jesus Christ Superstar, Andrew Lloyd Webber & Vocal Health | 04 Nov 2026 | 00:41:49 | |
On this episode of Call To Stage, Amber is joined by one of the most thrilling new voices to have graced the West End stage: the extraordinary Sam Ryder! Sam broke through when he representation the United Kingdom in the Eurovision Song Contest in 2022, becoming the highest scoring UK entrant ever and reaching second place. Since then, he was nominated for Best New Artist at the BRIT Awards, an Emmy Award for Outstanding Original Music, as well as nominations at the MTV Video Music Awards, TikTok Awards and a Hollywood Music In Media Award. Sam's West End debut came this year in the renowned revival of Jesus Christ Superstar at the London Palladium, where he stars as Jesus of Nazareth, and has now transferred to Theatre Royal Drury Lane due to exceptional demand. On this episode of Call To Stage, Amber and Sam talk about the pressure of taking on the role of Jesus (and performing in ever show without a single night off!), the night everything went wrong in Gethsemane and the moment Andrew Lloyd Webber called him out of the blue and changed his life. There are also stories from the Palladium stage door, the Olivier Awards with Johannes Radebe, and a practical masterclass in vocal health. For more bonus content, join the Call To Stage Backstage Pass on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/calltostage Follow Call To Stage Instagram: @calltostagepod TikTok: @calltostagepod YouTube: @calltostage See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| 143 - Summer Strallen on Beetlejuice, The Sound of Music & Panic Attacks | 28 Oct 2026 | 00:32:52 | |
On this episode of Call To Stage, Amber is joined by the utterly magnetic and brilliantly funny Summer Strallen - a performer who has been building one of the most extraordinary careers in British musical theatre since she was fifteen years old. As one of the Strallen sisters, Summer launched into the industry straight out of school, joining the final West End cast of Cats in 2001. Since then, she has played iconic roles in the likes of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Guys and Dolls (alongside Ewan McGregor and Jane Krakowski) and The Boy Friend (which earned her an Olivier nomination). Along the way, she has played Maria in The Sound of Music in the West End, been nominated for another Olivier for Love Never Dies and even appeared in Wicked alongside Ariana Grande! She current stars as Delia Deetz in the West End production of Beetlejuice. On this episode of Call To Stage, Amber and Summer talk about the panic attack that became the unexpected turning point in her vocal training, the surreal Zoom audition for Beetlejuice and the chaotic Hollyoaks publicity stunt that landed her the role of Maria in The Sound of Music. There are also stories from Guys and Dolls, Wicked and Beetlejuice as well as a candid conversation about ADHD and why it took until she was thirty to truly figure out who she was. For more bonus content, join the Call To Stage Backstage Pass on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/calltostage Follow Call To Stage Instagram: @calltostagepod TikTok: @calltostagepod YouTube: @calltostage See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| 142 - Legally Blonde Cast Compilation: George Crawford, Hannah Lowther, Annabelle Terry & More! | 20 Oct 2026 | 00:38:51 | |
On this very special episode of Call To Stage, we're revisiting some of our favourite moments from Amber's interviews with the cast of Legally Blonde The Musical from this year! Re-live conversations with Jamie Chatterton (Warner), Karen Mavundukure (Paulette), Annabelle Terry (Vivienne), Jocasta Almgill (Brooke), Adam Cooper (Callahan), Rosanna Harris (Serena / Elle cover), Hannah Lawther (Elle cover) and George Crawford (Emmett) for the ultimate behind-the-scenes company conversation! From pre-show rituals to the audition stories that got them into the room... and even relive the big reveal that George Crawford had been cast as Emmett opposite Amber’s Elle! There are also brilliant behind-the-scenes moments from Gay or European, the What You Want dance break and the Bend and Snap, as well as a candid conversation about what makes Nikolai Foster’s production different from every Legally Blonde that has come before it and why this company, more than any other, feels like the cast were born to play these roles. For more bonus content, join the Call To Stage Backstage Pass on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/calltostage Follow Call To Stage Instagram: @calltostagepod TikTok: @calltostagepod YouTube: @calltostage See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| 141 - Debbie Kurup on The Bodyguard, Playing Iconic Characters & The Devil Wears Prada | 14 Oct 2026 | 00:33:54 | |
On this episode of Call To Stage, Amber is joined by the effortlessly sharp Debbie Kurup - a performer whose career CV reads like a greatest hits of British musical theatre. An Olivier Award-nominated actor (for her performance as Nicki in the World Premiere of The Bodyguard in the West End), Debbie has taken on some of theatre's most iconic roles, including in the West End productions of Chicago, Rent, West Side Story and Sister Act. On tour, she has also starred in Fame and as Cher in The Cher Show, and she appears on the Original West End cast albums of The Prince of Egypt, Girl From The North Country, Tonight's The Night and Sister Act. Debbie currently covers the iconic role of Miranda Priestly in the West End production of The Devil Wears Prada. On this episode of Call To Stage, Amber and Debbie talk about the unspoken pressure of stepping into the shoes of a a character based on a real person, the remarkable experience of going straight back into Chicago as Velma just three months after giving birth and the importance of representation in the industry. Debbie also shares stories from the UK Tour and West End productions of Rent, her iconic turn in The Bodyguard and she shares her thoughts on why the material will always matter more than the money, and how she completed a university degree in a dressing room. For more bonus content, join the Call To Stage Backstage Pass on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/calltostage Thank You To Our Sponsor Every self-made person started somewhere. Your journey starts for free at shopify.co.uk Follow Call To Stage Instagram: @calltostagepod TikTok: @calltostagepod YouTube: @calltostage See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| 140 - Meg Hateley on Mamma Mia, Growing Up In Theatre & Puppets | 07 Oct 2026 | 00:33:05 | |
On this episode of Call To Stage, Amber is joined by the warm and funny Meg Hateley. Growing up backstage while her mum Lindsay Hateley performed in shows such as Mary Poppins and Mamma Mia!, Meg Hateley has become a force in theatre in her own right. She currently stars in the West End revival of Avenue Q, having previously starred as Sophie in Mamma Mia! as well as roles in Fantastically Great Women Who Changed The World at the Other Palace and Coven at the Kiln Theatre. On this episode of Call To Stage, Amber and Meg talk about the complete breakdown that puppetry rehearsals put the entire cast through, the full-circle moment of joining Mamma Mia! and being hugged by backstage crew who had known her as a little girl and the unexpected career path of someone who deliberately chose the acting course to avoid eight shows a week... and has ended up doing eight shows a week with a puppet on her arm! There are also stories from Avenue Q, Mamma Mia! and her first Southwark Playhouse production, as well as a joyful conversation about watching Maz Murray sing Winner Takes It All every single night. For more bonus content, join the Call To Stage Backstage Pass on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/calltostage Follow Call To Stage Instagram: @calltostagepod TikTok: @calltostagepod YouTube: @calltostage See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| 139 - Noah Harrison on Puppetry, Pretty Woman & Manifesting Jobs | 30 Sep 2026 | 00:27:27 | |
This week on Call To Stage we are joined by the talented Noah Harrison! You may recognise Noah from stealing the show as Giulio in Pretty Woman: The Musical where he also shared the stage with Amber! Noah has also played the role of Anthony Hope in Sweeney Todd at Opéra national du Rhin, Strasbourg and La Filature and Roger in Grease at the Dominion Theatre. Currently, Noah is on stage at Avenue Q playing the wonderful Rod. Check out Rod's exclusive interview with Amber on our YouTube channel now! On this episode of Call To Stage, Noah and Amber discuss the skill that goes into working a puppet, manifesting dream roles and how a vape nearly stopped Noah from performing. For more bonus content, join the Call To Stage Backstage Pass on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/calltostage Follow Call To Stage Instagram: @calltostagepod TikTok: @calltostagepod YouTube: @calltostage See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| 138 - Maria Friedman on Merrily We Roll Along, Audition Advice & Kimberly Akimbo | 23 Sep 2026 | 00:34:55 | |
We are joined by one of the most extraordinary figures in British musical theatre on this episode of Call To Stage - the legendary Maria Friedman. A three-time Olivier Award winning, Tony and Grammy Award nominated actor and director, Maria's mark on musical theatre is indelible. As an actor, she won the Olivier for Best Actress in a Musical for her turns in Passion, By Special Arrangement and Ragtime; she is also known as a beloved narrator in the 1999 film of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, as well as starring as Roxie in Chicago, Dot in Sunday In The Park With George and originated the role of Marian in The Woman In White on the West End and Broadway. As a director, Maria directed the acclaimed revival of Merrily We Roll Along in the West End and on Broadway - earning nominations at the Oliviers, Drama Desk Awards, Tony Awards and Grammy Awards. She also directed the revival of High Society at The Old Vic. On this episode of Call To Stage, Amber and Maria talk about the audition room wisdom she has learned that every performer needs to hear, the full-circle moment of opening Merrily We Roll Along on Broadway and her experience as the first Kimberly Levaco in the first ever London production of Kimberly Akimbo. There are also stories from Passion, Sweeney Todd and a legendary night at Carnegie Hall, as well as a conversation about hanging on to your corners and edges and why kindness really is the cheapest and most powerful thing in this industry. For more bonus content, join the Call To Stage Backstage Pass on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/calltostage Follow Call To Stage Instagram: @calltostagepod TikTok: @calltostagepod YouTube: @calltostage See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| 137 - Beverley Knight on The Bodyguard, Vocal Health, Rejection & Sylvia | 16 Sep 2026 | 00:39:45 | |
We're joined by an absolute icon of British music and theatre - the one, the only, the incomparable Beverley Knight MBE is on this episode of Call To Stage! Beverley's career spans four decades and multiple industries. A self-described "born singer" who was performing by the age of four, she spent two decades as one of the UK's most celebrated soul and R&B artists before making a seamless - and Olivier Award-winning - transition into musical theatre as an adult. Beverley's theatre career includes the West End casts of The Bodyguard, Memphis, The Drifters Girls, Grizabella in Cats, Deloris in Sister Act and more. Along the way, she has earned three Olivier Award and WhatsOnStage nominations, including one Olivier win for Best Supporting Actress in a Musical for Sylvia. She currently stars as Emmeline Pankhurst in Sylvia, which tours the UK before culminating at the Royal Albert Hall. On this episode of Call To Stage, Amber and Beverley talk about the decision to leave music behind and audition for the West End with no stage school training, getting an Olivier nom for Memphis and her tradition of 'Bev's Bomb Bom Fridays' which she's kept going across every show she's ever done. There are also stories from The Bodyguard, The Drifters Girl and Sylvia as well as a heartfelt conversation about keeping going in the face of rejection. For more bonus content, join the Call To Stage Backstage Pass on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/calltostage Follow Call To Stage Instagram: @calltostagepod TikTok: @calltostagepod YouTube: @calltostage See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| 136 - Chumisa Dornford-May on The Great Comet, Olivier Nominations & Into The Woods | 09 Sep 2026 | 00:34:43 | |
We're joined by the warm and captivating Chumisa Dornford-May on this episode of Call To Stage! Having grown up between Cape Town and England, Chumisa has rapidly established herself as one of the most exciting performers of her generation. Having made her mark originating the role of Natasha in Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812, for which she received an Olivier Award nomination for Best Actress in a Musical, she has gone on to play Christine in Phantom of the Opera, Cinderella in Into the Woods (Bridge Theatre), the Mistress in Evita (Curve), as well as Wednesday Addams Addams Family concert at the London Palladium. She is currently making her RSC debut in The Cherry Orchard at the Swan Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon. On this episode of Call To Stage, Amber and Chumisa talk about the extraordinary experience of leading a show for the first time in The Great Comet at 22, the Olivier nomination she still can't quite explain and the pressure that came with it going into Into the Woods. There are also stories from Phantom of the Opera as well as a conversation about making her RSC debut in a straight play for the first time. For more bonus content, join the Call To Stage Backstage Pass on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/calltostage Thank You To Our Sponsor Every self-made person started somewhere. Your journey starts for free at shopify.co.uk Follow Call To Stage Instagram: @calltostagepod TikTok: @calltostagepod YouTube: @calltostage See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| 135 - Christian Edwards on Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Imposter Syndrome & West End Producer | 02 Sep 2026 | 00:36:23 | |
On this episode of Call To Stage, Amber is joined by the hilarious Christian Edwards... who arrives straight from the reinvented production of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang in Newbury to be with us! Christian has built one of the most eclectic and entertaining careers in British theatre, spanning straight plays, musicals and regional tours. Having established himself with major West End roles in Les Mise´rables and Oliver!, he has gone on to perform in plays at Regent's Park Open Air Theatre (including A Midsummer Night's Dream and Macbeth) as well as UK Tours of Rasputin, Emma, Cyrano and more. However, Christian also has one role unlike any other on Call To Stage - having played the anonymous satirical theatre personality West End Producer for 14 years; winding up, celebrating and gently skewering the British theatre industry, all while playing roles in the very shows he was tweeting about. On this episode of Call To Stage, Amber and Christian talk about the birth of the West End Producer - the 14-year secret that had him lying to friends' faces, getting Cameron Mackintosh to follow him without ever revealing who he was, and the "I'm Spartacus" style reveal that had Beverley Knight, Rufus Hound and Reece Shearsmith all claiming to be him. There are also stories from Les Misérables, Jesus Christ Superstar and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, a relatable conversation about imposter syndrome and the two fish in the river outside the theatre that decide whether it's going to be a good show. For more bonus content, join the Call To Stage Backstage Pass on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/calltostage Follow Call To Stage Instagram: @calltostagepod TikTok: @calltostagepod YouTube: @calltostage See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| 134 - Bradley Gibson on Hercules, The Lion King & Netflix's Partner Track | 26 Aug 2026 | 00:32:50 | |
On this episode of Call To Stage, Amber is joined by the effortlessly chic Bradley Gibson! Bradley is one of Broadway's most exciting leading men. Having grown up in North Carolina and training at the Boston Conservatory, he made his Broadway debut as a swing in Rocky before going on to play Simba in The Lion King on Broadway, Tyrone in the Original Broadcast Cast of A Bronx Tale (alongside Ariana DuBose) as well as roles in TV on Partner Track (Netflix) and Mozart In The Jungle (Amazon Prime). He is currently making his West End debut playing Hercules in the brand new production of Hercules. On this episode of Call To Stage, Amber and Bradley talk about the moment he discovered his voice, the full-circle moment of singing in The Lion King on Broadway and then at the Hollywood Bowl, and his experience making his Broadway debut in Rocky. He also shares stories from Hercules, his Netflix roles and the best way to sustain your voice across a long run. For more bonus content, join the Call To Stage Backstage Pass on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/calltostage Follow Call To Stage Instagram: @calltostagepod TikTok: @calltostagepod YouTube: @calltostage See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| 133 - KayCee Stroh on High School Musical, BTS Stories & A West End Debut | 19 Aug 2026 | 00:33:44 | |
On this episode of Call To Stage, Amber is joined by an absolute childhood icon! The irrepressibly warm, joyful and genuinely life-affirming KayCee Stroh. KayCee is best known and most beloved as Martha Cox in the High School Musical franchise - a role she booked straight from Salt Lake City having never been to LA before. The show became a worldwide cultural phenomenon and a safe place for a generation of fans, and Kaycee has spent the two decades since championing its message of being unapologetically yourself, both on screen and off. She has also featured in a string of Disney projects (including The Suite Life of Zack & Cody and Andi Mack), and she is now bringing High School Musical to the stage in the 20th Anniversary stage production coming to The Lowry and then London's West End. On this episode of Call To Stage, Amber and KayCee talk about the full-circle moment of returning to High School Musical twenty years on, the decision to uproot her whole family and move to London and the moving story of how a shy girl from Utah walked into a casting call and found the role that changed her life. There are also brilliant stories about the making of High School Musical, the tap moment with Corbin Blue that inspired Work This Out and the message from her work that KayCee wants to ensure is never missed... For more bonus content, join the Call To Stage Backstage Pass on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/calltostage Follow Call To Stage Instagram: @calltostagepod TikTok: @calltostagepod YouTube: @calltostage See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| 132 - Joy Woods on The Notebook, Little Shop of Horrors & Broadway | 12 Aug 2026 | 00:26:33 | |
On this episode of Call To Stage, Amber is joined by the magnetic and completely irresistible Joy Woods! Joy Woods is one of the most exciting performers on Broadway and the West End right now. Having starred in the Broadway productions of Six The Musical, The Notebook and the most recent Gypsy revival (for which she was nominated for a Tony and GRAMMY Award), she recently made her West End debut as Sally Bowles in Cabaret. Joy has earned rave reviews and is undoubtedly one of theatre's brightest starts. On this episode of Call To Stage, Amber and Joy talk about the unexpected journey to saying yes to London after initially turning it down, being the first Black woman to play Louise in Gypsy on Broadway and the masterclass she received every single night watching Audra McDonald give 300% from the wings. There are also stories from The Notebook, Little Shop of Horrors and Six — including the song Joy has sworn never to sing again, the World Cup summer that turned her into a football fan and her journey from mock college audition to role originator. For more bonus content, join the Call To Stage Backstage Pass on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/calltostage Follow Call To Stage Instagram: @calltostagepod TikTok: @calltostagepod YouTube: @calltostage See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| 131 - Adam Cooper on Royal Ballet, Billy Elliot & Broadway | 05 Aug 2026 | 00:36:34 | |
We're joined by a true legend of stage and screen and an undeniable multi-hyphenate - Adam Cooper! Having started his career creating one of the most iconic moments in dance history - playing the Swam in Matthew Bourne's Swan Lake, a role that earned him a Tony nomination, Adam has gone on to star in the film adaptation of Billy Elliot as well as the West End productions of Singin' In The Rain and Guys and Dolls. Adam has also starred in the UK tour of A Chorus Line as well as Grand Hotel at the Donmar Warehouse, for which he received an Olivier nomination for Best Choreography. He currently plays Callahan in the UK Tour of Legally Blonde. On this episode of Call To Stage, Amber and Adam talk about the brutal reality of eight years in the Royal Ballet, the extraordinary Broadway adventure of Swan Lake, his love for Billy Elliot and his role in the film adaptation of Billy Elliot. There are also stories from Guys and Dolls, beer with Jack Nicholson in his dressing room on Broadway and the accidental Mel Brooks moment on stage in Dublin that left both of them completely unable to look each other in the eye. Thanks To Our Sponsors Every self-made person started somewhere. Your journey starts with a free trial at shopify.co.uk For more bonus content, join the Call To Stage Backstage Pass on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/calltostage Follow Call To Stage Instagram: @calltostagepod TikTok: @calltostagepod YouTube: @calltostage See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| 130 - Jocasta Almgill on Legally Blonde, Dreamgirls & Being A Resident Director | 29 Jul 2026 | 00:35:51 | |
On this episode of Call To Stage, Amber is joined by her Legally Blonde tour co-star and resident director — the phenomenal Jocasta Almgill. Jocasta has worked on some of the most exciting musicals in the UK - from being in the original London production of In The Heights to the ensemble in Dreamgirls at the Savoy Theatre. Jocasta also starred in the Original West End cast of & Juliet, the West End production of Grease and the UK tour of A Chorus Line. She currently plays Brooke Wyndham, and serves as resident director, on the UK Tour of Legally Blonde. On this episode of Call To Stage, Amber and Jocasta talk about the deeply personal meaning of playing Brooke Wyndham, and how this updated casting marks a new era for representation on stage, how Dreamgirls helped her realise she could be a leading lady, and what it really means to be a resident director. There are also stories from Grease, & Juliet and A Chorus Line, the saga of lying about playing guitar on her CV, and a very large lurcher called Luna who has become the unofficial mascot of the Legally Blonde tour! For more bonus content, join the Call To Stage Backstage Pass on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/calltostage Follow Call To Stage Instagram: @calltostagepod TikTok: @calltostagepod YouTube: @calltostage See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| 129 - Dan Partridge on Waitress, Kinky Boots & Why Touring Is Broken | 22 Jul 2026 | 00:40:32 | |
On this episode of Call To Stage, we're joined by the funny and candid Dan Partridge — a man who, as Amber quickly discovers, she has somehow never properly met despite sharing half the same friendship group, the same agent and very nearly the same production of Hairspray! Dan has performed in many of the UK's most beloved musicals, including the West End productions of Mamma Mia and Grease, the UK Tours of Hairspray, Kinky Boots and - most recently - Waitress as well as the international tour of Cats as the Rum Tum Tugger. He currently stars as Dr Pomatter in the UK Tour of Waitress. On this episode of Call To Stage, Amber and Dan talk about being cast in Waitress the day before rehearsals began, the vocal and physical toll of playing Charlie Price across two tours and his unique take on pre-show rituals... There are also stories from Grease, Cats and Starlight Express, his experiences in quarantine in Korea, as well as an important conversation about the broken system for touring performers. For more bonus content, join the Call To Stage Backstage Pass on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/calltostage Follow Call To Stage Instagram: @calltostagepod TikTok: @calltostagepod YouTube: @calltostage See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| 128 - Jenna Russell on Working With Sondheim, Les Miserables & Sinatra | 15 Jul 2026 | 00:40:39 | |
On this episode of Call To Stage, we are joined by an icon of British musical theatre — the incomparable Jenna Russell. Jenna's credits include many of the most iconic roles in theatre, including playing both Eponine and Fantine in Les Miserables (West End), Mary Flynn in the Olivier Award winning production of Merrily We Roll Along (West End) as well as roles in the West End productions of Follies and Hello, Dolly. She has also performed on Broadway in Urinetown and Songs For A New World. Jenna won an Olivier Award for her performance in Sunday In The Park With George and has been nominated for Olivier's for her performances in Guys and Dolls, Merrily We Roll Along and, most recently, The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry. On this episode of Call To Stage, Amber and Jenna talk about making the roles of Eponine and Fantine in Les Miserables her own (and how she made the roles harder for everyone who followed), what it was like working with Stephen Sondheim himself and her audition story for Sinatra: The Musical. There are also stories from Broadway, Guys and Dolls and Into The Woods (alongside Hannah Waddingham!), as well as reflections on Sylvia Young's quiet generosity, the upcoming Sunday in the Park with George revival and Ariana Grande's casting. For more bonus content, join the Call To Stage Backstage Pass on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/calltostage Follow Call To Stage Instagram: @calltostagepod TikTok: @calltostagepod YouTube: @calltostage See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| 127 - Ryan Kopel on Dear Evan Hansen, Skincare Routines, Discipline & Newsies | 08 Jul 2026 | 00:33:36 | |
On this episode of Call To Stage, we're joined by the effortlessly cool and funny Ryan Kopel. Ryan has established himself as one of the most exciting young leading men working in British musical theatre today. Having broken through playing the titular role in the UK tour of Dear Evan Hansen in 2024, Ryan has also starred in the acclaimed and Olivier Award nominated London production of Newsies as well as the West End production of Book of Mormon and The Addams Family concert at the London Palladium. On this episode of Call To Stage, Amber and Ryan talk about the discipline and monk-like lifestyle required to sustain Evan Hansen eight shows a week, the surreal experience of landing a role in Newsies when dancing is firmly not his thing and the joy of discovering straight theatre after years of leading musical roles. There are also stories from Dear Evan Hansen, Book of Mormon, the Addams Family Palladium concert as well as a genuinely wonderful conversation about skincare routines, glow drops, and the unexpected price of a buccal massage! Thanks To Our Sponsors Every self-made person started somewhere. Your journey starts with a free trial at shopify.co.uk For more bonus content, join the Call To Stage Backstage Pass on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/calltostage Follow Call To Stage Instagram: @calltostagepod TikTok: @calltostagepod YouTube: @calltostage See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| 126 - Natalie Kassanga on Moulin Rouge, Vocal Health, Child Acting & Dreamgirls | 01 Jul 2026 | 00:38:10 | |
On this episode of Call To Stage, we're joined by the sparkling and joyously warm Natalie Kassanga. Natalie made her West End debut at the age of nine playing young Nala in The Lion King, before going on to train at Sylvia Young. Since then she has become one of the most exciting performers of her generation, with credits including Satine in Moulin Rouge! (West End), Dina in Dreamgirls (UK Tour), Irene in Crazy For You (West End), and understudying both Zoe and Alana in Dear Evan Hansen (West End). On this episode of Call To Stage, Amber and Natalie talk about the extraordinary experience of making your West End debut as a child, the physical and emotional toll of touring Dreamgirls and the unexpected joy of landing Satine in Moulin Rouge! and discovering a note she didn't know she had. There are also stories from Dear Evan Hansen, Crazy For You and The Lion King, as well as a candid conversation about the undervalued art of being a cover, the importance of hydration and the importance of looking after yourself as a performer. For more bonus content, join the Call To Stage Backstage Pass on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/calltostage Follow Call To Stage Instagram: @calltostagepod TikTok: @calltostagepod YouTube: @calltostage See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| 125 - Annabelle Terry on Legally Blonde, Shakespeare & Training | 24 Jun 2026 | 00:41:25 | |
On this episode of Call To Stage, we're joined by the brilliantly warm, sharp and versatile Annabelle Terry — Amber's Vivienne in Legally Blonde! Annabelle has starred in the Original Cast of "Get Down Tonight: The KC & The Sunshine Band Musical" in both London and at the Edinburgh Fringe, the London production of Scissorhandz' as well as multiple Shakespeare productions in the US and across the UK (including the National Theatre). On this episode of Call To Stage, Amber and Annabelle talk about the leap of faith from straight acting into musical theatre later in your career, the invisible string that connects Annabelle to her co-star Karen Mavundukure and the wonderful creative freedom of working opposite a scene partner you can truly play with. There are also stories from touring America performing Shakespeare, the philosophy of saying yes to things that excite you rather than things that are strategic as well as a heartfelt conversation about not writing yourself off, and why the worst that can happen in an audition really isn't that bad at all. For more bonus content, join the Call To Stage Backstage Pass on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/calltostage Follow Call To Stage Instagram: @calltostagepod TikTok: @calltostagepod YouTube: @calltostage See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| 124 - Karen Mavundukure on Legally Blonde, Tour Digs & Dreamgirls | 17 Jun 2026 | 00:35:51 | |
On this episode of Call To Stage, we're joined by the sensational Karen Mavundukure - Amber's Paulette, partner in on-stage comedy crime and self-described forever sister. Karen's journey into musical theatre came almost by accident. After moving to the UK from Zimbabwe as a child and studying straight music at LIPA with no intention of going into theatre, she stumbled into the industry via The X Factor and a chance audition, going on to play alternate Effie in the original West End cast of Dreamgirls. She has since starred in The Color Purple (UK Tour), Stranger Things: The First Shadow (West End), and now stars as Paulette in the UK Tour of Legally Blonde. On this episode of Call To Stage, Amber and Karen talk about the unconventional route Karen took to landing Paulette, unique creative freedom of director Nikolai Foster's rehearsal room and the comedic chemistry between Paulette and Elle that has become one of the heart-and-soul moments of the show. There are also brilliant stories from Dreamgirls, The Color Purple and Stranger Things, as well as a candid conversation about the toll of pushing through illness on tour, touring digs gone wrong, and letting go of vocal-health rituals that had become more of a burden than a help. Thanks To Our Sponsors Sign up for your £1 a month free trial with Shopify and start selling today at shopify.co.uk For more bonus content, join the Call To Stage Backstage Pass on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/calltostage Follow Call To Stage Instagram: @calltostagepod TikTok: @calltostagepod YouTube: @calltostage See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| 123 - It's A Q&A! Leading A Tour, Legally Blonde & Reality TV... | 10 Jun 2026 | 00:39:17 | |
On this episode of Call To Stage, Amber is flying solo — and this time it's a full Q&A, straight from her Instagram. With a phone full of questions from her followers, Amber settles in for one of the most fun, frank and wide-ranging episodes she's ever recorded. This one covers everything! Amber opens up about the realities of touring in a leading role for the second time — how it compares to Pretty Woman, what she's learned about looking after herself, and why playing Elle Woods still genuinely doesn't feel like work. She gets candid about managing mental health on the road, dealing with drama (or choosing not to) and the hard-won wisdom that comes with doing this job for over a decade. There are behind-the-scenes moments too — including the story of the quick change that went spectacularly wrong on closing night in Sheffield — as well as heartfelt reflections on the co-stars who have shaped her most, from Louise Redknapp teaching her the ropes of the public eye on 9 to 5, to Corbin Blue showing her what it means to truly give in a scene, to the unspoken comedy rhythm she has found with her Legally Blonde co-star Karen. Amber also answers fan questions on her dream roles, her favourite theatres, Strictly, long distance relationships, blanking on stage, and — inevitably — which kind of potato she would be. For more bonus content, join the Call To Stage Backstage Pass on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/calltostage Follow Call To Stage Instagram: @calltostagepod TikTok: @calltostagepod YouTube: @calltostage See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| 122 - Laura Baldwin on Waitress, Imposter Syndrome & Singin' In The Rain | 03 Jun 2026 | 00:42:59 | |
On this episode of Call To Stage, we're joined by the wonderfully warm and completely charming Laura Baldwin. Laura has built one of the most varied and impressive careers in British musical theatre. A natural comedienne with a voice to match, her credits include Lena Lamont in Singin' in the Rain (Royal Exchange Manchester), Dawn in the original West End cast of Waitress, Danielle in the London production of 101 Dalmatians and a stint in the original West End cast of Cinderella — where she found a lifelong soul sister in co-star Georgina Castle. On this episode of Call To Stage, Amber and Laura talk about the surreal experience of landing Lena Lamont after a single audition, the door-flinging moment of being cast in Waitress and stepping into the West End for the first time, and the beautiful chaos of being bridesmaid at the wedding of the season. There are also brilliant stories from 101 Dalmatians, Shrek and Cinderella as well as an honest and funny conversation about imposter syndrome in the rehearsal room, the agony of first day read-throughs and the importance of learning to fill your own cup. Thanks To Our Sponsors Sign up for your £1 a month free trial with Shopify and start selling today at shopify.co.uk For more bonus content, join the Call To Stage Backstage Pass on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/calltostage Follow Call To Stage Instagram: @calltostagepod TikTok: @calltostagepod YouTube: @calltostage See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| 121 - Jacob Fowler on Heathers, Standby's & Little Mix The Search | 27 May 2026 | 00:28:47 | |
On this episode of Call To Stage, Amber is joined by the effortlessly charming, brilliantly funny and refreshingly down-to-earth Jacob Fowler. Jacob has had one of the most unconventional and exciting paths into musical theatre - after discovering a love of performing doing Into the Woods at school, he left drama school early to compete on Little Mix: The Search — the BBC talent show that changed the course of his life — before going on to win the competition and support Little Mix on their final arena tour at the O2. He made his professional theatre debut as JD in Heathers at the Other Palace, went on to play the Addams Family on tour alongside Alexandra Burke and Leslie Joseph, and most recently starred in in the eleven-time Olivier Award-nominated production of Into the Woods at the Bridge Theatre. On this episode of Call To Stage, Amber and Jacob talk about the surreal bubble of filming Little Mix: The Search during lockdown, the unexpected joy of being a standby and the unconventional routes into the industry. There are also brilliant stories from Heathers, the Olivier Awards and life with the Into the Woods company, as well as a lively debate about touring versus the West End and Jacob's dream role... Thanks To Our Sponsors Sign up for your £1 a month free trial with Shopify and start selling today at shopify.co.uk For more bonus content, join the Call To Stage Backstage Pass on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/calltostage Follow Call To Stage Instagram: @calltostagepod TikTok: @calltostagepod YouTube: @calltostage See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| 120 - Killian Donnelly on the Oscars, Royal Variety, Kinky Boots & Les Miserables | 20 May 2026 | 00:35:00 | |
On this episode of Call To Stage, Amber is joined by the extraordinarily talented, endlessly wise and brilliantly warm Killian Donnelly. Killian is one of the most decorated and versatile performers of his generation. A GRAMMY Award nominee and two-time Olivier Award nominee, his remarkable career began — with no formal training — as a swing in Les Misérables in the West End, a show he has returned to time and again, eventually playing Jean Valjean in the West End, World Arena Tour and the iconic 40th Anniversary Royal Variety Performance at the Royal Albert Hall. His other landmark credits include Charlie Price in Kinky Boots in the West End and on Broadway, Raoul in The Phantom of the Opera, Hughie Calhoun in Memphis The Musical, Tony in Billy Elliot, and Deco in The Commitments under the direction of Jamie Lloyd. On this episode of Call To Stage, Amber and Killian talk about the extraordinary moment he performed at the Academy Awards in LA, what it was like standing on the Royal Albert Hall stage surrounded by 400 amateur theatre performers for the Les Misérables 40th Anniversary Royal Variety Performance and how he went from no training to becoming one of the most sought-after leading men in British musical theatre. There are also brilliant stories from Kinky Boots, Memphis, Billy Elliot and his time on Broadway, as well as a masterclass in acting — the power of the pause, honouring the most important thing in the room, and why banging a table always means you've lost the argument. For more bonus content, join the Call To Stage Backstage Pass on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/calltostage Follow Call To Stage Instagram: @calltostagepod TikTok: @calltostagepod YouTube: @calltostage See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| 119 - Helen Woolf on Wicked, Emergency Covers & Performing As A New Mum | 13 May 2026 | 00:33:17 | |
On this episode of Call To Stage, we're joined by the gloriously warm, funny and brilliantly candid Helen Woolf. Helen has become one of the most beloved Glinda's in the history of Wicked, accumulating an extraordinary six contracts with the show across more than a decade — including the first UK Tour and multiple West End runs — before bringing her time with the show to a close alongside Lucy St. Louis, playing the role over 1,000 times in total. Her career also includes performing in the West Side Story Arena Tour, as well as concerts at the Royal Albert Hall, Cadogan Hall, Royal Festival Hall and many more. On this episode of Call To Stage, Amber and Helen talk about the long and winding journey to landing Glinda, the terrifying reality of being thrown in at the deep end as an emergency cover in week one of the first UK Tour, and the extraordinary experience of attending the Wicked film premiere surrounded by an array of Glinda's past and present. There are also brilliant stories from the bubble as well as a deeply honest and moving conversation about the realities of returning to eight shows a week as a new mum and why the industry urgently needs more job-sharing options for working mothers. For more bonus content, join the Call To Stage Backstage Pass on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/calltostage Follow Call To Stage Instagram: @calltostagepod TikTok: @calltostagepod YouTube: @calltostage See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| 118 - Michael Ball on Les Miz, Sweeney Todd, Performing For Royalty & Battling Nerves | 06 May 2026 | 00:39:56 | |
We're joined by a true legend of the British stage on this episode of Call To Stage - the endlessly charming, irrepressible, genre-defining Michael Ball. With over four decades in the industry, two Olivier Awards for Best Actor in a Musical, two BRIT Awards and GRAMMY nomination - Michael is undoubtedly one of the biggest stars in the industry. Having made his West End debut originating the role of Marius in Les Mise´rables (a show he has returned to multiple times in his career), he has gone on to define such iconic roles as Edna Turnblad in the West End production of Hairspray, Sweeney Todd in the revival of Sweeney Todd and Alex in Aspects of Love (which led to him charting in the Top 5 UK Singles Charts). Michael has also had renowned starring roles in The Phantom of the Opera and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, released numerous albums and has sold out every venue from the Royal Albert Hall to Radio City in New York. Michael Ball's new album Glow is out on May 22nd. You can order it here: https://michaelball.tmstor.es/ On this episode of Call To Stage, Amber and Michael talk about the advice that has underpinned his four decade career, his experiences performing in front of royalty, why he keeps returning to Les Mise´rables and how he asked Imelda Staunton to star in Sweeney Todd alongside him... There are also stories from Hairspray and Aspects of Love as well as a masterclass in nerves, superstition and what it means to savour the rare perfect moments. For more bonus content, join the Call To Stage Backstage Pass on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/calltostage Follow Call To Stage Instagram: @calltostagepod TikTok: @calltostagepod YouTube: @calltostage See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| 117 - Kerry Ellis on Elphaba, We Will Rock You, Vocal Health & Gravity | 29 Apr 2026 | 00:35:57 | |
We're joined by a true icon of British musical theatre on this episode of Call To Stage... the extraordinary Kerry Ellis is on the show! Kerry Ellis is undoubtedly one of the most storied and gifted performers in British theatre. Having made her professional debut in the West End production of My Fair Lady, she has gone on to play among the most iconic roles in the West End - including Nancy in Oliver!, Grizabella in Cats, Fantine in Les Miserables, Meat in We Will Rock You... and, of course, Elphaba in Wicked, where she was the first British Elphaba in the West End (taking over the role from Idina Menzel), a role she then reprised on Broadway. Kerry is currently on the road with the Gravity Tour alongside Louise Dearman and Rachel Tucker, a celebration of their decades-long friendship and shared history with Wicked — with a solo UK tour, Rock Anthems, also on the horizon. On this episode of Call To Stage, Amber and Kerry share stories from many of Kerry's most iconic roles - including Wicked, the Miss Saigon tour, We Will Rock You... and how Kerry's recent experience in 101 Dalmatians ended up with a very large surprise! They also talk about the sheer audacity of going on as Eliza Doolittle at the National Theatre with no rehearsals, how Brian May changed the course of her career, as well as a deeply honest conversation about vocal fatigue, guilt, the Elphaba community looking out for one another. For more bonus content, join the Call To Stage Backstage Pass on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/calltostage Follow Call To Stage Instagram: @calltostagepod TikTok: @calltostagepod YouTube: @calltostage See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| 116 - Jamie Chatterton on Legally Blonde, Little Big Things & Training | 22 Apr 2026 | 00:34:35 | |
We're joined by the effortlessly cool and funny Jamie Chatterton on this episode of Call To Stage! This episode was recorded in between shows in Liverpool in Amber's dressing room! Having trained at ArtsEd, Jamie has since gone on to star in The Sound of Music (Curve), as well as originating the roles of Tom Fraser in the critically acclaimed West End production of The Little Big Things and Alan Osmond in the world premiere National Tour of The Osmonds. On this episode of Call To Stage, Amber and Jamie talk about the journey of going from training to West End stages, the emotional weight and life-changing impact of originating a role in Little Big Things and why touring keeps a show fresh in ways that a long West End run simply can't replicate. There are also stories from The Osmonds, Sound of Music and Legally Blonde - including Jamie's audition process, being a six-foot-two nun floating across the stage, and the unexpected way love has a habit of finding you when you least expect it. For more bonus content, join the Call To Stage Backstage Pass on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/calltostage Follow Call To Stage Instagram: @calltostagepod TikTok: @calltostagepod YouTube: @calltostage See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| 115 - Rosanna Harris on Legally Blonde, Tour Life & Dream Roles | 15 Apr 2026 | 00:34:49 | |
It's Legally Blonde tour bestie time on this episode of Call To Stage, as Amber is joined by the hugely talented and gloriously fun Rosanna Harris. This episode was recorded in between shows in Glasgow in Amber's dressing room! Rosanna is currently playing Serena and serving as second cover Elle on the UK Tour of Legally Blonde, having carved out an impressive career that includes the UK and International Tours of Grease and Jeff Wayne’s The War of the Worlds arena tour. On this episode of Call To Stage, Amber and Rosanna talk about Rosanna's winding audition process for Legally Blonde — including a last-minute self-tape, a dramatic email to her agent, and asking to restart mid-audition — as well as what it really feels like to be living out your dream role every night. There are also behind-the-scenes moments from life on the Legally Blonde tour, the realities of managing your voice and energy across a big leading role, and the unexpected joy of finding your person on the road. Rosanna also shares her dream roles, the musical that first made her fall in love with theatre and why Miss Congeniality absolutely needs to be a musical — trademarked, right here, right now. For more bonus content, join the Call To Stage Backstage Pass on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/calltostage Follow Call To Stage Instagram: @calltostagepod TikTok: @calltostagepod YouTube: @calltostage See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| 114 - Ben Irish on Mamma Mia, Starting Late & Jersey Boys | 08 Apr 2026 | 00:33:18 | |
On this episode of Call To Stage, we're joined by the wonderfully warm, funny and refreshingly grounded Ben Irish. Ben has become one of the West End's most reliable and versatile leading men. A self-confessed late starter — discovered through a work experience placement at an amateur theatre group in Portsmouth at the age of 15 — he trained at ArtsEd and has since built an impressive career across some of musical theatre's most beloved shows. His credits include Bob Gaudio in Jersey Boys, Joe in 9 to 5 The Musical, Sky in Mamma Mia!, Sam in Ghost (which he also toured across Asia) and Hans in Frozen The Musical, which was filmed for Disney+. On this episode of Call To Stage, Amber and Ben talk about coming to musical theatre late and why there is truly no right time or right way into this industry, the family feeling that comes with long runs and touring companies, and the very real emotional and practical challenges of life between jobs. There are also stories from Jersey Boys, Mamma Mia! and Ghost, as well as conversations about setting boundaries, protecting your personal life and knowing when to say no — even when the jobs are good. For more bonus content, join the Call To Stage Backstage Pass on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/calltostage Thank You To Our Sponsors Sign up today for your £1 a month trial with Shopify and start selling today at shopify.co.uk Follow Call To Stage Instagram: @calltostagepod TikTok: @calltostagepod YouTube: @calltostage See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| 113 - Let's Talk About What Happened (Amber Solo) | 01 Apr 2026 | 00:37:11 | |
We have a special solo episode of Call To Stage this week - as Amber opens up about her life recently. Fresh off a difficult few weeks that have taken a real toll physically and emotionally, Amber sits down to share her side of the story in full: the illness, the press, the online trolling, and everything in between. Amber also opens up about winning a WhatsOnStage Award for her performance as in The Great Gatsby — a role she describes as the most important contract of her career. She also gets candid about the physical cost of going from Strictly Come Dancing straight into rehearsals for Legally Blonde with only a ten-day turnaround, and the chest and sinus infection that forced her off stage mid-run. Amber also speaks openly about the wave of negative press and online trolling she has faced since being cast as Elle Woods - and she sets the record straight. She talks about finding her coping mechanisms, the importance of using her platform to speak out, and why she refuses to let it overshadow her dream role and the best year of her life. For more bonus content, join the Call To Stage Backstage Pass on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/calltostage Follow Call To Stage Instagram: @calltostagepod TikTok: @calltostagepod YouTube: @calltostage See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| 112 - Billy Nevers on Legally Blonde, First Jobs, Hamilton & Swings | 25 Mar 2026 | 00:29:20 | |
We're joined by the exceptionally talented and charismatic Billy Nevers on this episode of Call To Stage! Billy trained at the Italia Conti Junior School before leaving early — at just 17 — to make his West End debut in Jesus Christ Superstar at the Barbican (and, later, the Regents Park Open Air Theatre). He also starred in the original West End cast of & Juliet, and played Lafayette and Jefferson on the Hamilton UK & Ireland Tour, before going on to cover and then take over the role of Aaron Burr. Billy earned a Black British Theatre Award nomination for his work in Legally Blonde at Regent's Park Open Air Theatre. On this episode of Call To Stage, Amber and Billy talk about their separate experiences in productions of Legally Blonde, Billy's journey through Hamilton (from Lafayette and Jefferson to covering and eventually taking over as Aaron Burr) and the impact of Billy's Black British Theatre Award nomination. Plus, Billy shares his experience from leaving stage school early to launch straight into the West, and the emotional tug-of-war between not wanting to be on tour anymore and having the biggest opportunity of his life. For more bonus content, join the Call To Stage Backstage Pass on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/calltostage Follow Call To Stage Instagram: @calltostagepod TikTok: @calltostagepod YouTube: @calltostage See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| 111 - John McCrea on Cabaret, Dance Calls & Everybody's Talking About Jamie | 18 Mar 2026 | 00:29:24 | |
We're joined by the candid, witty and magnetic John McCrea on this episode of Call To Stage! John is one of the most distinctive actors working in British theatre today. Having stared his stage career in The Sound of Music at The Palladium, he went on to originate the role of Jamie New in Everybody's Talking About Jamie - earning an Olivier nomination and WhatsOnStage Award. Most recently, John starred as the Emcee in Cabaret in the West End, and he currently stars in Slippery at the Omnibus Theatre. On this episode of Call To Stage, Amber and John talk about originating the role of Jamie New in Everybody's Talking About Jamie (from workshops to an Olivier nomination), life as a child performing at the Palladium and his reflections on not being a triple threat (and why it really doesn't matter). John also shares stories from Cabaret, his on-screen roles in Disney's Cruella as well as Dracula as well as his Off Broadway adventures. For more bonus content, join the Call To Stage Backstage Pass on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/calltostage Get tickets to se John in Slippery at the Omnibus Theatre here: https://www.omnibus-clapham.org/ Thank You To Our Sponsors Sign up today for your £1 a month trial with Shopify and start selling today at shopify.co.uk Follow Call To Stage Instagram: @calltostagepod TikTok: @calltostagepod YouTube: @calltostage See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| 110 - Katie Hall on Sally Bowles, Les Misérables & Coming Full Circle | 11 Mar 2026 | 00:29:24 | |
We're joined by the outstanding talent that is Katie Hall on this episode of Call To Stage! Katie has become one of the West End's most beloved leading ladies. From landing her first break - covering Christine in The Phantom of the Opera, straight out of school - she has played some of the most coveted roles in theatre, including Cosette and Fantine in Les Misérables (in the West End, UK Tour, European Tour, Arena World Tour and the iconic 25th Anniversary Concert), Maria in West Side Story (UK Tour) and Johanna in Sweeney Todd (London Coliseum). Katie currently stars as Sally Bowles in the acclaimed West End production of Cabaret. On this episode of Call To Stage, Amber and Katie talk about the whirlwind of leaving school and starting in the West End as a teenager, stepping into Sally Bowles in Cabaret as her dream role (and the emotional rollercoaster that comes with it) and the reality of balancing life as a leading lady whilst raising two young children. There are also plenty of stories from Les Misérables, Oklahoma and Sweeney Todd, as well as heartfelt conversations about when your dream role arrives at the perfect moment... For more bonus content, join the Call To Stage Backstage Pass on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/calltostage Thank You To Our Sponsors Sign up today for your £1 a month trial with Shopify and start selling today at shopify.co.uk Follow Call To Stage Instagram: @calltostagepod TikTok: @calltostagepod YouTube: @calltostage See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| 109 - Marc Antolin on Little Shop of Horrors, Building Resilience & The Producers | 04 Mar 2026 | 00:33:20 | |
On this episode of Call To Stage, we're joined by the endlessly thoughtful, funny and refreshingly honest Marc Antolin. Marc has become one of the UK's most reliable leading men - and he's a triple threat! His career highlights include performing in the acclaimed Regents Park Open Air Theatre productions of Little Shop of Horrors (as Seymour) Hello, Dolly! and Into The Woods, as well as the West End production of Matilda The Musical. Marc currently stars as Leo Bloom in the acclaimed West End revival of The Producers! On this episode of Call To Stage, Amber and Marc talk about the pressure tied to auditions, keeping performances fresh during long runs, shifting from ensemble to leading roles and how kindness and preparation are your greatest friends in a rehearsal room. Marc also shares stories from his time in Little Shop of Horrors, the 20th Anniversary UK Tour of Rent and his current performance in The Producers. For more bonus content, join the Call To Stage Backstage Pass on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/calltostage Follow Call To Stage Instagram: @calltostagepod TikTok: @calltostagepod YouTube: @calltostage See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| 108 - Joel Harper-Jackson on Leading Roles, Financial Pressure & Frank Sinatra | 25 Feb 2026 | 00:38:14 | |
On this episode of Call To Stage we're joined by powerhouse performing and leading man Joel Harper-Jackson! Joel's story starts with him leaving college early to join the 20th Anniversary tour of Rent. From there, he has played Charlie Price in the UK tour of Kinky Boots, as well as roles in Standing At The Sky's Edge (National Theatre & in the West End), the UK tour of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time, Jesus Christ Superstar at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre, Beautiful – The Carole King Musical at The Aldwych Theatre, and Che in Evita in Europe. Joel has just been announced to be taking on the role of Frank Sinatra in the major new West End show, Sinatra The Musical. On this episode of Call To Stage, Amber and Joel talk about finding calm in the chaos, the emotional comedown after career "peaks", understudying Jonathan Bailey and Taron Egerton in the West End production of Cock and how one self-tape ultimately transformed his career trajectory... Plus there are stories from Rent, the West End production of Standing At The Sky's Edge and how he is inhabiting Frank Sinatra for his next role, proving that sometimes the parts people don’t expect you to play are the ones you were born for. For more bonus content, join the Call To Stage Backstage Pass on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/calltostage Follow Call To Stage Instagram: @calltostagepod TikTok: @calltostagepod YouTube: @calltostage See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| 107 - Come To Legally Blonde With Us! Tech Rehearsals, Opening & TikTok | 18 Feb 2026 | 00:00:41 | |
We have a very special episode of Call To Stage for you... as we're taking you behind the scenes and into Amber's dressing for for a Call To Stage Vlog! This episode is only available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CilF3BUZzSE Amber's taking you with her as she documents the lead-up to opening night - including tech rehearsals, the mysterious bug going around the Legally Blonde company and she's even joined by George Crawford (our Emmett!) for a catch-up. Plus Amber shares her side to some of the discourse happening on TikTok around the show... For more bonus content, join the Call To Stage Backstage Pass on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/calltostage Follow Call To Stage Instagram: @calltostagepod TikTok: @calltostagepod YouTube: @calltostage See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| 106 - Emily Lane on Cadie Heron, Frozen & UK Tours | 11 Feb 2026 | 00:31:01 | |
We're back with a brand new episode of Call To Stage, and this time Amber is joined with the lovely Emily Lane! Emily first ever hit the stage at the young age of 7 when she made her West End debut as Brigitta Von Trapp in The Sound of Music, before proceeding to play Cosette in Les Misérables. Emily trained at ArtsEd where she graduated into the global pandemic. You may have also seen Emily star as Anna in the Disney production of Frozen where she learnt all sorts of tips and tricks from the one and only, Samantha Barks. Emily is about to hit the road as she stars as Cady Heron in the new Mean Girls UK & Ireland Tour - how fetch! On this episode of Call To Stage, Amber and Emily talk about taking part in the iconic London Palladium pantomime, playing historical roles in historical sights (and all of the coincidental events that happened in a certain show!) and her journey leading up to Mean Girls. Amber also discovers who the 'mystery bump up' is, the reality of being a performer during the pandemic and everyone's different rules when it comes to learning scripts. For more bonus content, join the Call To Stage Backstage Pass on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/calltostage Follow Call To Stage Instagram: @calltostagepod TikTok: @calltostagepod YouTube: @calltostage See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| 105 - Vivian Panka on Heathers, Mean Girls, Resilience & New Routes | 04 Feb 2026 | 00:41:04 | |
Our guest on this episode of Call To Stage is, in many ways, just like us: Loves musical theatre, obsessed with High School Musical... but she gets to spend her life playing some of the fiercest women on stage. Vivian Panka is on the podcast! Vivian Panka has starred as Heather Duke in Heathers: The Musical (at The Other Palace and in the pro-shot), Judy Bernly in the UK Tour of 9 To 5: The Musical (taking over the role from our very own Amber) as well as Alana in the tour of Dear Evan Hansen. She joins Amber in the studio on the eve of starting rehearsals for her newest role: Regina George in the UK Tour of Mean Girls. On this episode of Call To Stage, Amber and Vivian talk about falling in love with musical theatre through High School Musical, taking the leap and moving to the UK during lockdown with nothing but a dream and the pressure (and thrill) of stepping into an iconic leading role. Vivian also shares her whirlwind audition journey for Mean Girls, her experiences in Dear Evan Hansen, the hilarious opening night chaos of 9 To 5 and making her screen debut in Heathers before she'd ever run the show from start to finish! Plus she opens up about training abroad, building a career without the traditional UK drama school route and why short courses, community and timing can be just as powerful as formal training. For more bonus content, join the Call To Stage Backstage Pass on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/calltostage Follow Call To Stage Instagram: @calltostagepod TikTok: @calltostagepod YouTube: @calltostage See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| 104 - Jac Yarrow on Leading With Confidence, Joseph & Advice From Icons | 28 Jan 2026 | 00:40:54 | |
We’re back with another episode of Call To Stage, and on this episode, Amber Davies is joined by West End leading man and all-round storyteller Jac Yarrow. Before Jac had even finished his professional training at Arts Ed, he had landed the leading role of Jack Kelly in the UK premiere of Newsies. Off the back of this iconic role, he made his West End debut as Joseph in the London Palladium production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, where he landed his first Olivier nomination. Alongside Olivier noms and The Stage awards, Jac has played Marius in Les Misérables (in the West End and the Arena tour), the titular role in Pippin (West End concert) and alongside Broadway legends in Stephen Sondheim's Old Friends. On this episode of Call To Stage, Amber and Jac talk about the challenge of carrying a show as a leading man, finding confidence during setbacks, debuting in the West End whilst finishing training and learning when to push... and when to let things come to you. He also shares stories from Joseph And The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Newsies and The Time Traveller's Wife. Plus, Jac shares the backstage advice he received from legends including Bernadette Peters and Lea Salonga during Old Friends... For more bonus content, join the Call To Stage Backstage Pass on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/calltostage Follow Call To Stage Instagram: @calltostagepod TikTok: @calltostagepod YouTube: @calltostage See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| 103 - Ava Brennan on Oliver!, Learning On The Job & Motherhood | 21 Jan 2026 | 00:30:17 | |
We’re joined by a true star of the stage and screen on this episode of Call To Stage! Ava Brennan spent the first portion of her career performing in Germany – most notably in The Lion King, a role which brought her to the West End, where she performed as Nala. She has played some of the West End’s most powerful female roles – including Angelica in Hamilton, Fantine in Les Misérables and Ikette in Tina – The Tina Turner Musical. On screen, Ava played series regular Vee in Top Boy on Netflix, alongside roles in the live action remake of Beauty and the Beast and Rocketman. Ava is currently playing Nancy in the acclaimed West End revival of Oliver!. On this episode of Call To Stage, Amber and Ava talk about the first musicals they ever saw, balancing life as a working mother, Ava’s experiences in TV and Film, and the intense audition she had in front of Cameron Mackintosh... Plus, Ava shares stories from performing in Hamilton whilst 7 months pregnant, making her professional debut in Aida in Germany and going from being an alternative in Oliver! to taking over the role of Nancy full-time. For more bonus content, join the Call To Stage Backstage Pass on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/calltostage Follow Call To Stage Instagram: @calltostagepod TikTok: @calltostagepod YouTube: @calltostage See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| 102 - Louise Dearman on Wicked, Vocal Health, Work-Life Balance & Evita | 14 Jan 2026 | 00:36:58 | |
We are joined by a true legend of the West End on this episode of Call To Stage, as Amber is joined by the one and only Louise Dearman! Louise made history as the only actress to have played both Glinda and Elphaba as principal in Wicked (in the West End)! This stacks up against credits including playing Eva Perón in two UK Tours of Evita, the Narrator in the UK Tour of Joseph, Miss Adelaide in the UK Tour of Guys and Dolls (as well as understudying the role in the West End), among others. Louise has also performed as part of The Proms at the Royal Albert Hall multiple times and is currently touring across the UK and America with Gravity, a concert which she stars in alongside Kerry Ellis and Rachel Tucker. On this episode of Call To Stage, Amber and Louise talk about breaking through nerves before performing, the importance of vocal health and the choices Louise is making to be more present for her family. Louise also shares stories from Wicked (including whether she is more of an Elphaba or a Glinda!), Evita, Jekyll & Hyde, Guys & Dolls and her new concert tour Gravity, with Kerry Ellis and Rachel Tucker. For more bonus content, join the Call To Stage Backstage Pass on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/calltostage Follow Call To Stage Instagram: @calltostagepod TikTok: @calltostagepod YouTube: @calltostage See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| 101 - George Crawford on Legally Blonde, Touring With Amber & The Great Gatsby | 07 Jan 2026 | 00:28:55 | |
He's on his way to being one of the biggest names in UK theatre - and he's your Emmett in the new UK Tour of Legally Blonde The Musical - George Crawford is on this episode of Call To Stage! Having initially started performing arts training late, George has already had an illustrious career on the stage. Straight out of COVID, he went into the first international tour of Book of Mormon (covering both Elder Price and Elder Cunningham), before starring as Ogie in the Waitress UK Tour, the alternate Jack Kelly in Newsies in London and, most recently, Mr McKee and cover for Nick Carraway & Jay Gatsby in the Original London Cast of The Great Gatsby. On this episode of Call To Stage, Amber and George talk about starring in the UK Tour of Legally Blonde together, backstage antics at The Great Gatsby and meeting his wife Amy in Waitress. They also talk about the importance of boosting morale backstage, his experience in the Olivier Award-winning production of Newsies and the challenges of being in a show on the road... For more bonus content, join the Call To Stage Backstage Pass on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/calltostage Follow Call To Stage Instagram: @calltostagepod TikTok: @calltostagepod YouTube: @calltostage See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| 100 - Ben Joyce on The Greatest Showman, Strictly Come Dancing & Relationship Goals | 31 Dec 2025 | 00:27:01 | |
We've officially hit 100 Episodes of Call To Stage! What better way to celebrate than with a very special episode with the one and only, Ben Joyce! Fresh off starring in the acclaimed Regents Park Open Air Theatre production of Shucked this Summer, as well as his renowned performance in the concert production of The Hunchback of Notre Dame and his one-night-only return to Back To The Future, Ben Joyce is truly one of theatre's most exciting names. Whilst Amber is on the road through-out 2026 starring as Elle Woods in Legally Blonde, Ben is opening the World Premiere of The Greatest Showman as Phillip Carlyle (as played by Zac Efron in the film). On this special episode of Call To Stage, Amber and Ben talk about everything from their new house they bought together to navigating being in the same industry as your partner. They also share insight on managing their careers and their relationship side-by-side and how they'll be staying connected during a busy 2026! Ben also shares stories from Shucked and Hunchback and his journey to The Greatest Showman, and Amber gives an inside look to how Ben has been supporting her during her Strictly journey. Up next? Episode 101 and beyond...! For more bonus content, join the Call To Stage Backstage Pass on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/calltostage Follow Call To Stage Instagram: @calltostagepod TikTok: @calltostagepod YouTube: @calltostage See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| 99 - Matt Henry, Grace Hodgett-Young, Jess Folley at Call To Stage LIVE | 24 Dec 2025 | 00:47:54 | |
After the matinee is the evening, and on this episode of Call To Stage, we're taking you to the Fortune Theatre in London's West End for Call To Stage LIVE 2025! In the evening performance, we were joined by the one-of-a-kind Matt Henry, Grace Hodgett-Young and Jess Folley (plus special appearances from Natalie Paris, Taila Halford and Ben Joyce). Highlights include Matt's sneaky audition whilst he was at Urdang (and his return to the stage, after nearly quitting, in Kinky Boots), Grace's stories from performing in Sunset Blvd on both Broadway and in the West End, and Jess' unique experience shaping Burlesque. We're back next week with the very special 100th episode of Call To Stage! For more bonus content, join the Call To Stage Backstage Pass on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/calltostage Follow Call To Stage Instagram: @calltostagepod TikTok: @calltostagepod YouTube: @calltostage See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| 98 - Samantha Barks, Zoe Birkett, Holly-Anne Hull at Call To Stage LIVE | 17 Dec 2025 | 00:49:33 | |
We assembled an iconic list of very special guests at the Fortune Theatre in London's West End for Call To Stage LIVE 2025... and now we're bringing it to your ears! In the matinee performance, we were treated to interviews with the incredible Samantha Barks, Zoe Birkett and Holly-Anne Hull (plus special appearances from Natalie Paris, Taila Halford and Ben Joyce). Highlights include Zoe sharing her intense 4 hour audition to play Tina Turner in TINA, Samantha's experiences playing Elsa in Frozen and playing Eponine in Les Mise´rables on stage in in the film and Holly's experience competing at Eurovision as part of Remember Monday! We'll be back next week with the not-to-be-missed evening performance of Call To Stage LIVE 2025! For more bonus content, join the Call To Stage Backstage Pass on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/calltostage Follow Call To Stage Instagram: @calltostagepod TikTok: @calltostagepod YouTube: @calltostage See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| 97 - Melanie La Barrie on Hadestown, Broadway Debuts, Trinidad & Wicked | 10 Dec 2025 | 00:33:02 | |
We're back with another episode of Call To Stage, and Amber is joined by an undisputed icon of stage and storytelling... Melanie La Barrie! From Hadestown to & Juliet, from Wicked to Les Mis, Melanie has created some of the most memorable characters in modern musical theatre. Making her West End debut in the ensemble of Ragtime, she has gone on to be apart of the original cast of Mary Poppins, the workshop production of Matilda and both the workshop and original Manchester and West End cast of & Juliet. Alongside these outstanding original roles, Melanie has also starred in the West End productions of Les Misérables (Madame Thenardier), Wicked (Madame Morrible) and Hadestown (Hermes), for which she won the WhatsOnStage Award for Best Supporting Performer in a Musical. On this episode of Call To Stage, Amber and Melanie talk about character building when playing an original role, the truth about auditioning and making her Broadway debut in & Juliet at 48 years old. Melanie also shares her journey from singing professionally in Trinidad to becoming one of the West End's most beloved performers, as well as stories from her time in Wicked and her auditioning truths! Thanks to our sponsors... Searching for the perfect gift? Surprise someone (or yourself!) with air up and turn plain water into pure flavour. Use code CALLTOSTAGE for 10% off at https://airup.link/AMBER For more bonus content, join the Call To Stage Backstage Pass on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/calltostage Follow Call To Stage Instagram: @calltostagepod TikTok: @calltostagepod YouTube: @calltostage See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| 96 - Nikita Kuzmin on Strictly Come Dancing, First Impressions & Big Goals | 03 Dec 2025 | 00:36:32 | |
We have one of the most highly anticipated guests of the year on this episode of Call To Stage... it's Amber's Strictly Come Dancing partner Nikita Kuzmin! Hailing from Ukraine, Nikita is joined BBC's Strictly Come Dancing in 2021 and - two years later - during season 21 in 2023, he placed as runner-up with his partner for the series (and Call To Stage alum), Layton Williams! Nikita has scored a '40' (the highest score on the show) six times and has been scored a '10' (the highest score from an individual judge) a whopping forty-three times! Outside of Strictly, Nikita is the holder of six Italian Championship titles and was the runner up on the 2024 series of Celebrity Big Brother. On this episode of Call To Stage, Amber and Nikita share behind-the-scenes stories from their time on Strictly, their first impressions of each other and the growth they have experienced whilst on the show. They also take us inside the rehearsal room to share their most challenging rehearsals - learning a wide variety of dance styles - and Nikita shares his favourite musicals! Thanks to our sponsors... Searching for the perfect gift? Surprise someone (or yourself!) with air up and turn plain water into pure flavour. Use code CALLTOSTAGE for 10% off at https://airup.link/AMBER For more bonus content, join the Call To Stage Backstage Pass on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/calltostage Follow Call To Stage Instagram: @calltostagepod TikTok: @calltostagepod YouTube: @calltostage See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||
| 95 - Ben Forster on Phantom Of The Opera, Jesus Christ Superstar & Surprise Opportunities | 26 Nov 2025 | 00:32:14 | |
We're joined by the dynamic and highly talented Ben Forster on this episode of Call To Stage! You might recognise Ben winning ITV's Superstar competition back in 2012 which resulted in him playing the lead role of Jesus in Andrew Lloyd Webber's revival of Jesus Christ Superstar in its 2012 Arena Tour. Since then, he has Buddy The Elf in Elf The Musical in the West End, and has played The Phantom in The Phantom of the Opera in the West End, Greece, Japan and on the World Tour. On this episode of Call To Stage, Amber and Ben talk about his experiences on TV, training at Italia Conti and Ben's experiences in productions including Thriller Live and Phantom. They also discuss Ben's venture into pop music, Amber's secret love for Elf The Musical and the incredible travelling opportunities that musical theatre can provide you. For more bonus content, join the Call To Stage Backstage Pass on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/calltostage Follow Call To Stage Instagram: @calltostagepod TikTok: @calltostagepod YouTube: @calltostage See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info. | |||