I know Season 6 has wrapped up but I had this episode sitting in the vaults so before we get into Season 7 (Next Year EEEK!) Enjoy this beautiful conversation with actor Faraz Ayub. 

p.s- I am very ill so enjoy my husky deep. voice in the begining and let me know what was the drink you sipped on or what was your favourite part of the episode. 

Topics Breakdown: 

• Workshopping the script and the character on Sky Peals. 
• Preparation of different mediums and your technical approach to creating the world of these characters in Film, theatre and series. 
• Discussing works such as Ackley Bridge and Screw. 
• Representation behind and infront of the scenes fro film and series.

Rapid Response Questions: 

• A tip on being financial savvy?
• Go back to any role or project what would it be and why? And if you were asked to do a part 2/ expansion of it- input 
• A great thing about being an artist in today’s social, cultural and economical and a challenging thing about it? 
• Getting into the role- auditioning or when you have booked the job? And how to let go or separate yourself from it?
• A thing you would like someone to take away with them having met you for a brief second or known you for a long time?
• Your Favourite thing about yourself either as a creative or person and something you feel is a challenge and are working on?
• A thing you would like to impart somebody but you never got told ?
• Words to your mirror self today?
• 3 things the creative culture could do with and or without?
• 3 artists really admire their journey or would suggest in checking out their work ?
• Your thoughts on the entertainment culture or theatre culture in general and a thing you would challenge the industry on?
• Does strategy and conversation of the business of the industry come in to play? 

• What the Chai- 30 second rant about anything and everything however you must start or end your rant with the phrase "What the Chai?"
• Joyfulness- What's one thing that makes Jordi joyful and whats one thing he does for others that makes them feel joyful. 

To subscribe to Patreon and become a Patron/ supporter of Chai with Rai. 

Social:

Myself: https://www.instagram.com/chaiwithrai_/ & https://twitter.com/chaiwithrai_ & https://www.tiktok.com/@chaiwithrai

Guest : https://www.instagram.com/officialfaraza/ 

Links:

Myself: https://www.raimuitfum.com/chaiwithraihomepage &

https://linktr.ee/chaiwithrai_ 

Guest: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm3292959/ &  https://www.farazayub.com . 

Hope you all enjoyed it and Thank you for tuning in. To Subscribe, share, follow my work and everything else is listed above.

Welcome to Chai with Rai. 

The Podcast for the Creative in You!

Grabbed a cuppa with the talented Ra'eesah to discuss her writing process for "38%" an audio story for the series Symphonies of Beaded Threads. We also discussed her unique voice as an artist, organisational make up of the theatre industry and of course poetry. 

Also, with this I conclude the series of discussing BTS stuff and more with the writers behind Symphonies of Beaded Threads. I hope you enjoyed it and more to come! 

About Ra'eesah: 

Ra’eesah is a multifaceted creative using the mediums of theatre, film, music and spoken word to tell stories, bring people together and effect positive change. She has performed on stage as an actor and singer at the Bush Theatre as well as with The Old Vic/Neon Arts. 

She has produced projects such as The Self-Expression Sessions, a series of spoken word poetry workshops open to people of all ages and abilities, to increase accessibility to the arts and build community through creativity and culture.

Further projects Ra’eesah has produced on include Licence to DV8 at the Royal Albert Hall and arts festivals at Almeida Theatre and London Bubble, focusing on outreach. She is a trustee of the Roundhouse and WEST Youth Zone and has contributed to several other organisations including Old Vic Theatre and A New Direction through youth advisory.

To Listen to Ra'eesah's story CLICK HERE. 

To subscribe to Patreon and become a Patron/ supporter of Chai with Rai. 

Social:

Myself: https://www.instagram.com/chaiwithrai_/ & https://twitter.com/chaiwithrai_ & https://www.tiktok.com/@chaiwithrai

Guest: https://www.instagram.com/ra.eesahh/ , https://twitter.com/Ra_eesahh & https://app.spotlight.com/3812-7862-7993

Links:

Myself: https://www.raimuitfum.com/chaiwithraihomepage &

https://linktr.ee/chaiwithrai_ 

Hope you all enjoyed it and Thank you for tuning in. To Subscribe, share, follow my work and everything else is listed above.

Chai with Rai (Ep.23). In conversation with Mavin Khoo where we sat and discussed stories from his career, life lessons and the world of Classical Dancing. It was beautiful to dive into his rich career and discuss how there isn't still a lot of representation when it comes to the world of Contemporary and Classical Ballet.

A conversation that really stood out in the episode was our discussion on sexuality and gender. How Mavin discusses the word androgynous, a word he has been called often. Mavin also fondly spoke of his training and his relationship to his Guru and his teachers. He also spoke where he fits in today's world of giving back that knowledge as a coach, artist and a choreographer. 

At the end of the episode we had a lot of laughter, as we discussed switching off and diving into some reality tv. Real Housewives and Wendy Williams were amongst the top shows of our banter. 

To watch the full episode: https://youtu.be/PT_xpWfINRM 

Social: Myself: https://www.instagram.com/chaiwithrai_/  Guest: https://www.instagram.com/mavin_khoo/ 

Links: Myself: https://linktr.ee/raimuitfum 

Guest: https://www.akramkhancompany.net/company-profiles/mavin-khoo/ 

Hope you all enjoyed it and Thank you for tuning in.

To Subscribe, share, follow my work and everything else is listed above.

Chai with Rai (Ep.22). In conversation with author Shweta Aggarwal where we sat and discussed her other accolades from writing, such as owning a Bollywood Company- Threebee. Which ran successfully for 10 years and they were the first Bollywood Dance Company to feature and make it to Semi-Finals of Britains Got Talent.

Shweta also has received Asian woman of achievement award for Arts and Culture in 2016 and was invited By her Majesty the Queen at Buckingham Palace For an event in 2017.  Also, being an author to the popular kids books Dev and Ollie and we discussed her new novel The Black Rose Book, which focuses her experiences on colourism within the south asian community. We heavily discussed Colourism in South Asian Community. The complexities of being working/ labour class, how its unjust to women vs men and of course beauty standards all around the world.

We had such a good chat talking about UK Dance politics, the Bollywood scene in the UK, how you set up a company and the logistics of it. How it is to be a self published author, her experience with her successful accomplishments. As well how she dealt with the low times in her life and what lessons she learnt from them.  

To watch the full episode: https://youtu.be/Uk_xs5R6nwE 

Social: Myself: https://www.instagram.com/chaiwithrai_/  Guest: https://www.instagram.com/theblackroseway/ 

Links: Myself: https://linktr.ee/raimuitfum 

Guest: https://linktr.ee/theblackrosewriter & http://devandollie.com  

Hope you all enjoyed it and Thank you for tuning in.

To Subscribe, share, follow my work and everything else is listed above.

Chai with Rai (Ep.21). In Conversation with Saloni Saraf where we sat and discussed her journey with Kathak, the dance industry in the UK. The South Asian Classical Indian Dance Space vs Experimental work vs Bollywood. The survival toll that one can have whilst being a freelancer and gaining opportunities.

Having a brother that also works in the entertainment industry and creating connections with others in there industry.  Her work for productions such as Kattam Katti, Swan Lake and Glastonbury. We also got into discussing politics through her Documentary ‘The Saffron Republic”. Which dives into the caste, media and political space in India. How that was received and why it was created. Then at the end as usual we played some fun games and you have to check out the full video for the Improv dancing alone!

To watch the full episode: https://youtu.be/2MLo9ocVEAc 

Social: Myself: https://www.instagram.com/chaiwithrai_/  Guest: https://www.instagram.com/salonis/ 

Links: Myself: https://linktr.ee/raimuitfum 

Hope you all enjoyed it and Thank you for tuning in.

To Subscribe, share, follow my work and everything else is listed above.

Chai with Rai (Ep. 20)- In conversation with the Nikkita Chadha where we sat and discussed the entire industry basically. From Nikkita's evolution as a dancer into modelling and acting. To discussing what it means to have credits such as: Rimmel London, Asos, Selfridges, Voxi, Tok Tok, Schuh, Master Card, Halifax, Bohoo, River Island, Adidas, Wowcher, Charlotte Tilbury, Google, Cartier & Reebok to name a few. But also acting credits with projects such as Mubarakan, The Long Goodbye, Cornershops, Turn up Charlie, Bring on the Bollywood, The Eternals, Cinderella and Never Kiss your best friend. 

Nikkita has such a rich career and a great support circle and we discussed how it feels to have that encouragement as a South Asian woman. How the narrative and opportunities need to change in the industry to being more inclusive. Such as not just having Brown dancers together in a project that is just brown based. Or stereotyping POC to ethnic roles and to progress the narrative. 

We also discussed Nikkita's struggle with mental health and anxiety. How she copes with it's triggers and seeks help when needed. How she deals with being a freelancer and feeling like enough isn't enough often. We also discussed that if she didn't have all of the accolades she has, the support of her close group, her physical and mental confidence would she continue to do what she is doing today.

We also dove into being an influencer, the usage of Social platforms and transferring that into opportunities. Her strong connection to her roots as a South Asian person. What the exterior perspective of that is like either being a female or a POC. How she navigates with the politics of the industry and being on set. How the industry treats you and your community. What she would like for her future now and what projects she seeks. And lastly who is a bigger star-- her mother or Nikkita?

To watch the full episode: https://youtu.be/ZsYR-d4_DN4 

Social Media: Myself: https://www.instagram.com/chaiwithrai_/   Guest: https://www.instagram.com/nikkitachadha/ 

Links: Myself: https://linktr.ee/raimuitfum 

Guest: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm7703116/ 

Hope you all enjoyed it and Thank you for tuning in.

To Subscribe, share, follow my work and everything else is listed above.

Chai with Rai (Ep.19) - In conversation with Jess Baddie where wwe sat and discussed Jess's accolades from with Nike London, to being featured in Elle, Evening Standard UK. Being in campaigns for Puma and Tesco to choreographing 2018 World Cup video ft Will Smith Nick Jam and Era Istrafi. 

We of course discussed all things Dancehall, what it means to be in Dancehall Funk Worldwide, how Jess trains in Dancehall still and travels to Jamaica and internationally to learn from different crews. As well sponsors them to come and teach in the UK.

We also discussed body image issues, confidence, sexuality. An outlook on life, Dance culture, digital space, Being an artist, her business ventures and evolution from a dancer to working on Suns Nature and ambassador for brands such as Agora World. 

Since the episode was taped Jess has ventured into Dj'ing and recently DJ'd at a high profile gig in Turkey amongst being booked for some major festivals coming up in 2022. We also discussed Jess's confidence and the kindness she shares with the community and her friends. How she deals with the politics and the High's/ Low's of the entertainment industry. 

To watch the full episode: https://youtu.be/TM2-C6Kxc2Q 

Social: Myself: https://www.instagram.com/chaiwithrai_/   Guest: https://www.instagram.com/jessbaddiee/ 

            https://www.instagram.com/sunsnature/ 

Links: Myself: https://linktr.ee/raimuitfum 

Guest: https://linktr.ee/JessBaddie 

Hope you all enjoyed it and Thank you for tuning in.

To Subscribe, share, follow my work and everything else is listed above.

Chai with Rai (Ep.18)- In conversation with Aishwarya Raut where we sat and discussed all things dance from India to the UK basically. From working with tycoon companies such as Shiamak to now being with Rambert Dance. We also discussed the lack of South Asian representation in the Contemporary community compared to other POC. As well why there aren't a lot of choreographers or creative directors or even Movement Directors that are of South Asian decent leading some of the biggest brand campaigns.

We discussed how it feels to be in a rep company and the pro's and con's of that as a dancer and a creative artist. We discussed Aishwarya's prospective for the future, for the community, the support and love of her family & friends. Being a female POC dancer and how that is viewed by the community and industry- be it stereotyping to racism, sexism and more. 

Aishwarya is also signed to a commercial agency, to which we discussed the different pockets of the creative industry and its challenges on where to fit and how to survive. This episode was also recorded during a time where covid measures were being lifted, to which we discussed how that took a toll on your mental health and physically as a dancer. How she returned with Rambert and were creating works in which senses and movements were restricted. 

To watch the full episode: https://youtu.be/9OylW82lPCk 

Social: Myself: https://www.instagram.com/chaiwithrai_/   Guest: https://www.instagram.com/aishwarya__raut/ 

Links: Myself: https://linktr.ee/raimuitfum 

Hope you all enjoyed it and Thank you for tuning in.

To Subscribe, share, follow my work and everything else is listed above.

Chai with Rai (Ep.17) - In Conversation with Sunil Gupta where we discussed everything from LGBTQ+ rights, being an activist for the community to discussing being so vulnerable and open about himself in his work. From his HIV positive diagnosis and documenting that to his past relationships and more. 

We also discussed gay culture everything from cruising to Grindr and the digital way of meeting up. How queer culture exists in such a free form today,  how the LGBTQ+ South Asian experience is represented and the lack of voices for it in mainstream or even arts experience.

We also discussed what it means to be a photographer, is art subjective and does it belong in a gallery or an exhibition? How the culture surrounding safe spaces has also changed in the UK? His culture exposure from moving to Canada, US and UK from India. Working with charities such as GLC and what it meant to be around the activism era of the 80's onwards. I was also intrigued to ask that if you are a person of the LGBTQ+ community, do you have a responsibility to be knowledgeable about its history and have an active voice for those who don't?

We also touched up on Sunil's love stories and finding his partner now, known to us as "Husband Ji".

To watch the show

https://youtu.be/pOLWk9Ehwcs 

Social:

Myself: https://www.instagram.com/chaiwithrai_/  

Guest: https://www.instagram.com/sunilgupta7402/  

Websites

Myself: https://linktr.ee/raimuitfum

Guest: https://www.sunilgupta.net

Hope you all enjoyed it and Thank you for tuning in.

To Subscribe, share, follow my work and everything else is listed above.

Chai with Rai (Ep.16)- In conversation with Raymond Chai where we sat and discussed his tremendous résumé- from working with Royal Shakespeare Company to Royal National Theatre, National Ballet and Rambert Dance. Working also with legends such as Matthew Bourne, Richard Alston and Akram Khan to name a few.

I also was intrigued to find out the technicalities of what it means to be a Ballet Master. We also talked about Raymond's acting career from Cats to King and I. His choreographic and teaching works. 

We also dove deep into the classical Ballet world, the politics of it and how the word diversity is thrown around but yet the art form still has a long way to progress in it's approach. 

To watch the video:

https://youtu.be/7WzhrB3r0Yw 

Social:

Myself: https://www.instagram.com/chaiwithrai_/  

Guest: https://www.instagram.com/raymondochai/

Links:

Myself: https://linktr.ee/raimuitfum

Guest: https://raychai.wordpress.com 

Hope you all enjoyed it and Thank you for tuning in. To Subscribe and share follow my page and everything above.

Chai with Rai (Ep.15)- In conversation with Ridaa Husain from Dance Bhangra. We sat and discussed all things Bhangra, Representation and stereotypes of being a Pakistani dancer and in specific and being a Pakistani Female Bhangra Dancer. The toxic space often created by the competition scene but also having a dance family that supports you. How people still misinterpret folks dances and label it under one umbrella that is Bollywood. 

Her passion for the arts, her perspective, coming from a supportive family that encourages her path rather than discourages. What sets Dance Bhangra, Ridaa's Dance brand from others and how she really emphasises the beauty of folk dance. How it felt being the first female Bhangra coach for her team and then win The Bhangra Showdown in 2018. How it feels to work with Desi frenzy and other punjabi artists. To be nominated and also win the Best Dance Group for the UK Bhangra Dance Awards 2020.

The future of Dance Bhangra and of course her travels. I also want to shout out Ridaa for becoming a mummy to a beautiful baby boy since our interview and I cannot wait to see him in all the dance comps as now Ridaa will become a stage mom lol.

To watch the video:

https://youtu.be/K_89rYMM4mY 

Social:  Myself: https://www.instagram.com/chaiwithrai_/   Guest- https://www.instagram.com/dancebhangra/ 

Websites:  Myself: https://linktr.ee/raimuitfum  Guest:  https://www.dance-bhangra.com/ 

Hope you all enjoyed it and Thank you for tuning in.

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Chai With Rai (Ep.14)- In conversation with Eden Pereira . Where we sat and discussed the dance culture in India. How his love for contemporary began and the stereotypes of being a male dancer-- be that from the styles of dances or even just being Asian and expected to dance in Bollywood. 

We also discussed training, technique, ballet, Danceworx Performing Academy with Ashley Lobs. How Eden's approach to choreography and teaching changed during Lockdown. Being a faculty member for The Big Dance Centre and the survival of a dancer in India. 

I also had to find out Eden's inspiration, whose vocabulary he admires as a creative and his approach to choreography. And of course the variations of contemporary dance practiced and showcased in India. 

To watch the video:

https://youtu.be/gMtZcrhfmYA 

Social:  Myself: https://www.instagram.com/chaiwithrai_/    Guest- https://www.instagram.com/edendpereira/ 

Links: Myself: https://linktr.ee/raimuitfum 

Hope you all enjoyed it and Thank you for tuning in.

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Sat down with the wordsmith that is Riana Howarth to discuss a blossoming  and emerging career in theatre and more. We also dove into her audio story "She'd Sit" from the audio series "Symphonies of Beaded Threads"-  the experience of writing that and what she hopes the listeners take from it. 

About Riana:

Riana is an aspiring writer and illustrator with a curiosity for all/most things weird and wonderful. With a background in acting and experience in assisting in youth theatre classes at the Questors Theatre, she uses this knowledge to inspire her creative writing. Between writing theatre reviews for North West End UK, she is trying to develop a consistent writing practice, exploring various themes, topics and styles. She is currently part of the Fresh Direction Program at The Young Vic Theatre (2022/2023).

To Listen to Riana's short audio story Click HERE. 

To subscribe to Patreon  and become a Patron/ supporter of Chai with Rai. 

Social:

Myself: https://www.instagram.com/chaiwithrai_/ & https://twitter.com/chaiwithrai_ & https://www.tiktok.com/@chaiwithrai

Guest: https://www.instagram.com/art.riiii/ & https://creatorsprogram.youngvic.org/member/10091

Links:

Myself: https://www.raimuitfum.com/chaiwithraihomepage &

https://linktr.ee/chaiwithrai_ 

Hope you all enjoyed it and Thank you for tuning in. To Subscribe, share, follow my work and everything else is listed above.

Chai with Rai (Ep.13)- In conversation with Georgie Bloy as we sat and basically just caught up. Georgie is a great friend of mine and we had to discuss the myths and secrets of fitness and PT.

Georgie has a real kind and ethical approach to fitness and it transpires through her. I had to find out where that stems from and how she manages to deal mentally in an industry which constantly judges you from your appearance. Especially being a female. 

We also dove deep into the boutique fitness industry and the new age PT's mindset, the instagram and social media Fitness instructors. Why qualifications and and an access to facilitating fitness programs has become so over saturated. 

We also discussed Georgie's modelling and acting career. How that passion plays into her life today. If she misses the entertainment industry and will she do more projects in that space. We also discussed anxiety and how to develop tools to recognise the triggers. How to deal with constant exterior marketing campaigns that can trigger us. How also being in lockdown was another trigger and challenged Georgie as a freelancer. 

To watch the video:

https://youtu.be/h7_8WgR7B2A 

Social:

Myself: https://www.instagram.com/chaiwithrai_/   Guest- https://www.instagram.com/georgiebloy/ 

Links: Myself: https://linktr.ee/raimuitfum 

Hope you all enjoyed it and Thank you for tuning in.

To Subscribe and share follow my page and everything above.

Chai with Rai (Ep.12)- In conversation with Gairik Dutta Paul where we sat and discussed the dance culture in India. How Gairik's career in Dancehall began even though he trained in other styles. 

We discussed the IDVP program at Danceworks and the culture of training camps. What privileges you gain from being a faculty member at The Big Dance Centre in India. We also dove deep into survival as a dancer in India. How unions and agencies have an unconventional method and to survive a lot of dancers predominantly end up teaching. How Bollywood can be blessing and a curse. 

I had to also find out Gairik's recovery from his injury which prevented his passion to dance. Breaking down sexualisation of dancehall and how that fits into the dance culture in India. How he choreographs and what style/ vocabulary he mostly identifies his artistic voice with. 

To watch the full episode: https://youtu.be/xGXmN2Vc6Is 

Social: Myself: https://www.instagram.com/chaiwithrai_/   Guest: https://www.instagram.com/gairikduttapaul/  

Links: Myself: https://linktr.ee/raimuitfum 

Hope you all enjoyed it and Thank you for tuning in.

To Subscribe and share follow my page and everything above.

Chai with Rai (Ep.11)- In conversation with Sophia Rabinovitz of Activism Dance Theatre where we discussed how you create art for a dance theatre company that focuses on socialism, historical and political work. How Sophia's vision has evolved since creating the company? The logistics of setting up a company-- the pro's and con's of it.

We also discussed the dance space in New Orleans. How Sophia now owns a dance studio in NOLA and what the focus of the space is. We also discussed how she will be working with detention centres more. And of course the vision for its future. We discussed her stance on feminism and how she her views reflect not only her ethical & political stances but also her as a person... as an artistè.  

We also discussed Sophia's fitness and mental health journey. Being in a blended family and an interracial relationship. Lastly, knowing Sophia -- I had to get her take on the digital space and if she feels better about utilising it as a marketing tool for her brand. 

To watch the full video: https://youtu.be/jaRT5jbnKwc 

Social: Myself: https://www.instagram.com/chaiwithrai_/   Guest: https://www.instagram.com/msmindfulmuscles/ & https://www.instagram.com/artivismdance/ 

Links: Myself: https://linktr.ee/raimuitfum  Guest: https://www.artivismdance.com 

Hope you all enjoyed it and Thank you for tuning in.

To Subscribe and share follow my page and everything above.

Chai with Rai (Ep.10)- In conversation with Chloe Laureyns where we discussed everything Fitness. From working in a fitness boutique studio to the mass gyms out there. We discussed the myths that surround fitness and how that affects our relationship to our bodies. 

Chloe also spoke very openly about mental health issues she struggles with. And how she manages that relationship with herself and her spirituality. The anxiety that is triggered and how to recognise that it is time to step away. 

We also discussed how the use of Digital media can affect us and how to utilise it but safeguard yourself. To be transparent but motivating. And of course her brand Bodies By Chloe. 

To watch the full video: https://youtu.be/R9JlWiBBsbk 

Social: Myself: https://www.instagram.com/chaiwithrai_/   Guest: https://www.instagram.com/bodiesbychloe/ 

Links: Myself: https://linktr.ee/raimuitfum 

Hope you all enjoyed it and Thank you for tuning in.

To Subscribe and share follow my page and everything above.

Chai with Rai (Ep.9)- In conversation with Saran Kohli where we sat and discussed everything fashion, his connection dance, music and how his mother Mani Kohli influenced the South Asian arts scene in the UK and him. 

We discussed his dance career from Company 68, to Broadway Dance Centre to being in a show, showcased at The Oliver Awards. Saran discussed his main influence being Michael Jackson and how that influenced his own vocabulary. We also discussed the dance industry in the UK being South Asian and how we are usually bought together for only SA based projects as oppose to our POC counterparts. We also dove into wether South Asian talent should have a fundamental knowledge of their culture and their roots, especially when in the arts. 

Saran also talked in such passion about Vitiligo and all of the work that he has done for himself and the community. Recently he launched a face mask with artist Mira Abad. And he has got some great projects in the work. 

We also touched on Marvels The Eternals and another project for which he danced in and designed the costumes for. His own clothing line Saran Kohli has  been worn by Sachin Tendulkar, JLS, Jay Sean, Ashley Walters (Top Boy), Lenny Henry, Juggy D, Mumzy Stranger, Ameet Chana and H Dhami amongst others. 

Saran Kohli Label has since been featured in GQ, Esquire and Asian Wealth Magazine. The list of international celebrities, influencers and bloggers wearing SKL and being styled by Saran himself has grown to include Sadiq Khan (Mayor of London), Sachin Tendulkar, Amandeep Singh (Aka Inkquistive), and Big Narstie amongst others with pieces being featured in New York Times, GQ UK, GQ France, GQ America and UK Esquire. SKL has now also branched out to designing uniforms for the hospitality industry; The Bloomsbury Hotel and St James Court (TAJ Hotel) in London being the most recent endeavor in collaboration with Bencivenga Alta Sartoria. 

To watch the full video:  https://youtu.be/on1PGOzHUi8 

Social: Myself: https://www.instagram.com/chaiwithrai_/  Guest: https://www.instagram.com/sarankohli/ 

Links:  Myself: https://linktr.ee/raimuitfum  Guest: https://www.sarankohli.com 

Hope you all enjoyed it and Thank you for tuning in.

To Subscribe and share follow my page and everything above.

Chai with Rai (Ep.8)- In Conversation with Mandeep Virk Randhawa where we sat and discussed all things Dance with MVR. How she created a platform out of pure love and missing out on the opportunity to share the love of Bhangra and Giddha. 

I also wanted to dive in how often when describing Bhanrgra the community fails to mention that it originates both from India and Pakistan. Rather than just Punjab in India. 

We dove into the how Bhangra, Giddha and Boliyan are often boxed as Bollywood and the misrepresentation of it. We talked of the new age way of learning and teaching. What the folk styles mean to her and her close relationship to it. 

We also discussed her work with of course PBN, Gary Sandhu and more. Her work with Phulkaria Girls and Tohr PD. Also, you have to check out the freestyle Boliyan and Dancing at the end.

To watch the full video:   https://youtu.be/gywOQiCgn-g 

Social: Myself: https://www.instagram.com/chaiwithrai_/  Guest: https://www.instagram.com/dancewith_mvr/ 

Links: Myself: https://linktr.ee/raimuitfum 

Hope you all enjoyed it and Thank you for tuning in.

To Subscribe and share follow my page and everything above.

Chai with Rai (Ep.7)- In conversation with Tobin Thomas Where we sat and discussed the Indian Classical space, specifically in Canada. We also dove into what it means to be a South Asian dancer and choreographer.

Creating and owning a company-- the work and financial value going into it. From conceptualising work to finding opportunities to showcase it. I also wanted to dive into the imagery Tobin creates in his work. He has a way of highlighting the Brown skin and in specific, a female perspective in such a breathtaking medium. I also, wanted to ask his process in creating choreography which was so interesting to dive into.

We dove into the popularity scheme that being in this industry you can often feel. Specialising in something but also covering all pockets. Having to be boxed and stereotyped.  We also had to discuss Shadow Entertainment (Tobin's Dance Company) performing at TEDX Don Mills. 

Tobin has kept busy with his company Shadow Entertainment, recently being in Canada's Got Talent. Tobin truly is an exceptional talent and I look forward to the work he creates not only for the community but how he broadens that vision to a global language. 

To watch the full video:  https://youtu.be/Zfkd6j3Gces 

Social: Myself: https://www.instagram.com/chaiwithrai_/  Guest: https://www.instagram.com/tobinthomas/ 

Links: Myself: https://linktr.ee/raimuitfum 

Hope you all enjoyed it and Thank you for tuning in.

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Chai with Rai (Ep.6)- In conversation with Simone Damberg Würtz. Where we sat and talked contemporary dance in Europe and especially in the UK. We discussed how it feels to be a principle dancer in a rep company (Rambert Dance). 

Simone alongside Nancy and Julia from Rambert Dance also created a new initiative called "The Playground" at Rambert. Which allows emerging choreographers and artists of all disciplines to come together once a month and create an exchange. 

We also dove into Simone's Danish heritage, her career trajectory, her voice as an artist and choreographer. Her thoughts on Lyrical, Commercial and Entertainment in general. Where it is, where it is going and my favourite topic the usage of Digital imprint. 

To watch the full video:  https://youtu.be/_MIfuy2u3yQ 

Social: Myself: https://www.instagram.com/chaiwithrai_/  Guest: https://www.instagram.com/ms_stackhouse/ 

Links: Myself: https://linktr.ee/raimuitfum  Guest: https://linktr.ee/SimoneDambergWurtz 

Hope you all enjoyed it and Thank you for tuning in.

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Chai with Rai (Ep.5)- In conversation with Guleraana Mir where we sat and discussed her work with the Thelma's and of course her play Coconut (which brought me such joy). We dove into the high's and low's of being a playwright. Her process and advice for upcoming writers. 

Her thoughts on being boxed and stereotyped as POC Female writer and how we need more bold voices in the industry creating programming. We talked about feminism and her views on empowerment/ having a seat at the table. 

We also discussed the R&D process of creating a show, why she doesn't direct anymore and prefers in theatre realm to be known as a theatre practitioner. 

Since recording the show I have had the honour to meet and call Guleraana for industry related issues. She has been a great supported and just a kind person. She has some great projects in the pipeline from TV to film and of course more theatre work. 

To watch the full video: https://youtu.be/3XxSzBmwv-M 

Social: Myself: https://www.instagram.com/chaiwithrai_/  Guest: https://twitter.com/g_ting 

Links: Myself: https://linktr.ee/raimuitfum  Guest: https://linktr.ee/guleraana 

Hope you all enjoyed it and Thank you for tuning in.

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Chai with Rai (Ep.4)- In conversation with Emma Farnell Watson where we sat and discussed her work with companies such as Hofesch Schecter, Jasmin Vardimon and Shahar Binyamini. Being the face of brands such as Garnier, Vodafone and more. We discussed in the lengths the differentiation and specificity of Contemporary Dance vs Contemporary lyrical. We also discussed how to safeguard our mental health whilst being in this industry and what life lessons she has specifically learnt from. 

We dove into her training and her thoughts into the industry being a trained dancer signed to some of the top agencies vs being a freelancer and not having a "traditional" training background. We also talked about Emma's joy for life, her optimism (knowing her as a friend), her process when she is doing a show or even on set. I also wanted to ask about how she manages her relationship with her partner, being that they are both performers. We also had an in depth conversation about privilege and sharing our opportunities with those around us.

I am so happy to know Emma and of her journey. Since doing the show Emma has continued her work with Hofesch but also has been choreographing work such as Jamie Cullum's music video. Curating a night in London for artists to showcase their work with her partner called Reune. Emma is currently with a high profile brand in creative directing their commercial and has a short film soon coming out. Keep your eyes peeled for this beaut babe.

To watch the full video: https://youtu.be/XsTT312sRMU 

Social: Myself: https://www.instagram.com/chaiwithrai_/  Guest: https://www.instagram.com/efarnellwatson/ 

Links: Myself: https://linktr.ee/raimuitfum 

Hope you all enjoyed it and Thank you for tuning in.

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Had such a wonderful time discussing community and opportunity as freelance writers in the industry with the wonderful Gayathiri Kamalakanthan. And of course we discussed the writing process for the audio story "Chemo in the Summer". 

About Gayathiri:

Gayathiri is a Tamil poet and sex education facilitator. They’re interested in how language shapes childhood and how we use it to queer the future. Gayathiri won the Faber & Andlyn Publisher’s Prize 2022, the Primadonna Fiction Prize 2021 and they were shortlisted for the Bridport Poetry Prize 2022. Gayathiri runs the poetry workshop series WORD-BENDERS at The Common Press bookshop in East London. Gayathiri is currently a member of the Southbank New Poets Collective. Their debut novel in verse is forthcoming with Faber.

To subscribe to Patreon and become a Patron/ supporter of Chai with Rai. 

To listen to Gayathiri's audio story CLICK HERE. 

Social:

Myself: https://www.instagram.com/chaiwithrai_/ & https://twitter.com/chaiwithrai_ & https://www.tiktok.com/@chaiwithrai

Guest: https://www.instagram.com/unembarrassable/ 

Links:

Myself: https://www.raimuitfum.com/chaiwithraihomepage &

https://linktr.ee/chaiwithrai_ 

Guest: https://linktr.ee/gayathirikamalakanthan 

Hope you all enjoyed it and Thank you for tuning in. To Subscribe, share, follow my work and everything else is listed above.

Chai with Rai (Ep.3)- In conversation with Sashin Kandhai where we discussed his amazing career as a multidimensional artists in South Africa . From his love of Bollywood cinema to being an actor, dancer, choreographer and director.  We talked about his meeting of course with Madhuri Dixit on the hit Indian TV Show Dance Deewane. 

To producing and starring in his own theatre show Gateway to Bollywood & Kuch Kuch Happens. We also spoke of his silk and aerial work with Oriental Fire. We dove deep into the entertainment space in South Africa, the digital space and where he is going to. 

Since recording Sashin choreographed the movie Trippin' with the Kandasamys and being a judge on Dance Africa Dance. 

To watch the full video: https://youtu.be/_Gg6IEy3lQA 

Social: Myself: https://www.instagram.com/chaiwithrai_/   Guest: https://www.instagram.com/sashinkandhai/ 

Links: Myself: https://linktr.ee/raimuitfum

Hope you all enjoyed it and Thank you for tuning in.

To Subscribe and share follow my page and everything above.

Chai with Rai (Ep.2)- In conversation with Sonia Benito where we sat and discussed her work for brands such as Rimmel London. Her dance journey from Street Dance to Commercial work. 

How she got into magic and developed a beautiful style. Her thoughts on the industry- from the magic industry not having enough female representation to how the dance industry is. We even discussed Sonia's journey into fitness and how she met her partner Hannah. 

The beautiful love they share and the life they have built. Sonia also shared her views on the fast paced digital space and more. 

To watch the full video: https://youtu.be/j2G9rVzaM4Y 

Social: Guest: https://www.instagram.com/soniabenito/  Myself: https://www.instagram.com/chaiwithrai_/  

Websites:  Myself: https://linktr.ee/raimuitfum  Guest:  https://www.soniabenito.com

Hope you guys enjoy and Thank you for tuning in.

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Welcome to Chai with Rai (Ep.1)- I call this show my Digital jukebox of Hidden Gems, in which I reach out to people in the Entertainment and Fitness Industry. We discuss all things Industry, life lessons, politics, socialism, culture, history , the Digital space and more. Then at the end we play some fun games and reflect some more. I want the show to feel like we are having a conversation, with some banter involved but at the same time discuss some heavy topics. Agreeing to disagree and having that space to explore.

Episode 1- In conversation with Sonia Tharani of BollyDanz. We sat and talked all things Bollywood, from her favourite films, to favourite actors, songs, to dancers and choreographers she adores. What got her into dance, how she continues to keep the passion for it.

What her journey has been like in the industry-- from spirituality to career, her thoughts on the politics of the industry, the digital space. How she deals with stress and anxiety.

Her recovery from a car accident which left her in a very dark space and how her passion for dance recovered her. I am grateful for Sonia for being my first guest and encouraging me to venture on this new chapter. .

To watch the full video:   https://youtu.be/C70f1chtNHw 

Social: Guest: https://www.instagram.com/bollydanz/  Myself: https://www.instagram.com/chaiwithrai_/ 

Websites:  Myself: https://linktr.ee/raimuitfum  Guest:  https://bollydanz.com 

Hope you guys enjoy and Thank you for tuning in.

To Subscribe and share follow my page and everything above.

I have to say and say it I will! If you are a writer! You must and you must listen to structure and how just telling this conversation is especially if you are an emerging writer. So many great antidotes to take and implement into your world. 

Sitting down with the stunning Bethany Gemmell to discuss writing and how a world is created and how "Catherine" was made for Symphonies of Beaded Threads . 

About Bethany: 

Bethany Henry Gemmell LLM (he/him) is a Northern non-binary artist in London, working as Production Coordinator for a multi-award-winning company. In 2022, he quit working as a teacher and dove into theatre and television full-time. Career highlights so far include: producing, directing and writing for Neurospace Theatre's showcase presenting autistic work at Barons Court in February 2022; stage-managing for Black British Theatre-nominated Saturn Returns at Brixton House/Southbank Centre/Northern School of Contemporary Dance; and being assistant director for the LGBT+ play Welcome Home at Soho Theatre in January 2023. His biggest creative passion is writing. Currently, he is a part of Young Vic's selective Creators Program and he has a television show in development that is based on his play M. E. Trout, which is about an autistic woman dealing with grief and broken relationships. When he is not working, he is building a trans theatre company (Twitter: @transgrtheatre) and reading about sociopolitical issues, so much so that he has recently graduated with a Masters in Human Rights Law - as such, he gets quite nerdy about that sort of thing. His staged short play Wolf (2023), which was his first ever submission to Theatre503's Rapid Write Response scheme, is the latest achievement in Bethany's emerging writing career.

To Listen to Bethany's audio short story CLICK HERE. 

To subscribe to Patreon and become a Patron/ supporter of Chai with Rai. 

Social:

Myself: https://www.instagram.com/chaiwithrai_/ & https://twitter.com/chaiwithrai_ & https://www.tiktok.com/@chaiwithrai

Guest: https://www.instagram.com/hgemmellian/ & https://twitter.com/hengemmell 

Links:

Myself: https://www.raimuitfum.com/chaiwithraihomepage &

https://linktr.ee/chaiwithrai_ 

Guest: https://creatorsprogram.youngvic.org/member/11946

Hope you all enjoyed it and Thank you for tuning in. To Subscribe, share, follow my work and everything else is listed above.

The incredible soul that is Yasmine Dankwah sat down and discussed her process of storytelling, YouTube rabbit holes and of course Spoken word vs poetry. 

Here is the link to Yasmine's short story titled "An Epic: as told by my grandma’s photo album " for Symphonies of Beaded Threads 

About Yasmine: 

Yasmine Dankwah is a British-Ghanaian spoken word artist and writer based in South London. She is interested in exploring how resistance in the form of identity-based discrimination can act as a springboard for joy in live performance by using music, spoken word poetry and lyricism. She is currently an artist on Boundless Theatre’s Accelerator programme and part of the Emerging Writer’s Group at the Bush Theatre. Last year, she became a recipient of the Francis Chagrin award and was featured on BBC Radio London for her audio play I Used To Know H.I.M, which was commissioned by Chronic Insanity Theatre.

To subscribe to Patreon  and become a Patron/ supporter of Chai with Rai. 

Social:

Myself: https://www.instagram.com/chaiwithrai_/ & https://twitter.com/chaiwithrai_ & https://www.tiktok.com/@chaiwithrai

Guest: https://www.instagram.com/yasminedankwah/ & https://twitter.com/yasmined77?lang=en 

Links:

Myself: https://www.raimuitfum.com/chaiwithraihomepage &

https://linktr.ee/chaiwithrai_ 

Hope you all enjoyed it and Thank you for tuning in. To Subscribe, share, follow my work and everything else is listed above.

Finally and I mean Finally managed to get Carmina Bernhardt for an intevrview. Carrying on with the series we grabbed a cuppa and discussed the inspiration behind Carmina's piece "Brainfreeze" from the audio series "Symphonies of Beaded Threads" and her love of cats and more!

About Carmina:

Carmina Bernhardt is a Vancouver-born and London-based actor, writer, director, script reader, and coach for stage and screen. Graduated with Distinction from Royal Central School of Speech and Drama's MA Acting for Screen, and completed a BA in Music Theatre Performance from Capilano University. Recipient of the London Library’s Emerging Writers Award, and selected for New Earth Theatre's BESEA Professional Writers Programme.

To listen to Carmina's short story "Brainfreeze" CLICK HERE. 

To subscribe to Patreon  and become a Patron/ supporter of Chai with Rai. 

Social:

Myself: https://www.instagram.com/chaiwithrai_/ & https://twitter.com/chaiwithrai_ & https://www.tiktok.com/@chaiwithrai

Guest: https://www.instagram.com/carminabernhardt/ & https://twitter.com/dasbernhardt?lang=en

Links:

Myself: https://www.raimuitfum.com/chaiwithraihomepage &

https://linktr.ee/chaiwithrai_ 

Guest: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm6486835/ & https://app.spotlight.com/9179-0197-9303 

Hope you all enjoyed it and Thank you for tuning in. To Subscribe, share, follow my work and everything else is listed above.

Carrying on with the interview series with the writers from "Symphonies of Beaded Threads" diving into the mind of Afriya- Jasmine Nylander. who wrote the short story titled "Professional Daydreamer".  

About Afriya:

Afriya-Jasmine Nylander is a Writer, Actor and Producer based in West London. She studied Theatre at the Brit School where she performed Shakespeare at Stratford-Upon-Avon, was chosen for the NSDF Festival 2021, and was a part of the Bridge Company. 

In 2023, she had her professional Debut in Charli Josephine’s play “Flies”and was involved in The Lyric Hammersmith stage response project of “The African Mean Girls”. She has worked with the National Theatre as an assistant producer of “Death of England: Closing Time” written by the award-winning Clint Dyer and Roy Williams. She is also a part of the National Theatre alumni Writers group.

She currently works at the Kiln Theatre and is writing her debut play “Everyone’s Invited”. 

To subscribe to Patreon and become a Patron/ supporter of Chai with Rai. 

Social:

Myself: https://www.instagram.com/chaiwithrai_/ & https://twitter.com/chaiwithrai_ & https://www.tiktok.com/@chaiwithrai

Guest: https://www.instagram.com/afriya.j/

Links:

Myself: https://www.raimuitfum.com/chaiwithraihomepage &

https://linktr.ee/chaiwithrai_ 

Hope you all enjoyed it and Thank you for tuning in. To Subscribe, share, follow my work and everything else is listed above.

Excited to be releasing an interview series with the the writers from the short audio storytelling series on Chai with Rai "Symphonies of Beaded Threads". Let's warm up that delicious cuppa and dive into it with Soria Hamidi who wrote "Take my Picture" 

About Soria:

Soria Hamidi is an Afghan playwright, prose fiction writer and dramaturg. Her work focuses on silenced histories, communities and people by exploring the stories through a class-based, racial and feminist perspective. 

She has completed the Kiln Theatre’s Listen Local Writers Programme where she developed and staged her short play on Afghan feminism. She has been selected for the London Library’s Emerging Writers Programme to research and write a play on the commercialisation of war and trauma. She completed the Writerz and Scribez and the Vineyard Theatre Literary Programme. 

To subscribe to Patreon  (listen to the audio version of without ads or intro/outro ) and become a Patron/ supporter of Chai with Rai. 

To Listen to Soria's short "Take My Picture"  Click HERE. 

Social:

Myself: https://www.instagram.com/chaiwithrai_/ & https://twitter.com/chaiwithrai_ & https://www.tiktok.com/@chaiwithrai

Guest: https://www.instagram.com/soriahh/ 

Links:

Myself: https://www.raimuitfum.com/chaiwithraihomepage &

https://linktr.ee/chaiwithrai_ 

Hope you all enjoyed it and Thank you for tuning in. To Subscribe, share, follow my work and everything else is listed above.

Getting into more deep chatter and games with the one and only Vidya Patel. Enjoy part 2 and you can also now listen to Part 1 HERE. 

In the episode we discuss:

• Culture of Dance commissioning. 
• A tip on being financial savvy.
• A tip on funding, application how to get things done . 
• A tip on dance artists transitioning into facilitation or choreographing or movement direction?
• 3 things the dance culture be it South Asian led or overall industry that could do with or without

Note: 

Artists mentioned in the podcast are: Aditi Mangaldas, Hiten Patel and Shammi Pithia.  

To subscribe to Patreon  (watch the full unedited video version of this) and become a Patron/ supporter of Chai with Rai. 

Social:

Myself: https://www.instagram.com/chaiwithrai_/ & https://twitter.com/chaiwithrai_ & https://www.tiktok.com/@chaiwithrai

Guest: https://www.instagram.com/_vidyapatel/ & https://twitter.com/vidyapatel96 

Links:

Myself: https://www.raimuitfum.com/chaiwithraihomepage &

https://linktr.ee/chaiwithrai_ 

Guest: https://www.vidyapatel.com/ 

Hope you all enjoyed it and Thank you for tuning in. To Subscribe, share, follow my work and everything else is listed above.

This is going to be a two-parted episode BECAUSE I just had to dive into this brilliant human's mind.

Got to speak with the incredible Choreographer, Movement artist and wonderful human that is Vidya Patel. From connecting on Gujarati sayings to discussing decoding Classical Indian dance, it's access, Uday Shankar and so much more! This is a jam packed one. 

In the episode we discuss:

• Creation exploration? What is it you look for? The room to feel like ?What does the world of your creativity feel and sound like ? 
• Do you separate the lineage/ history of what you have been taught of all artistic vocabulary such as kathak and chow when facilitating and how you manoeuvre that if so?
• The balance of artistic expression and storytelling you have? 
• What inspires you/ drives you to create still?
• How do you balance the room when comissioned with everything and what have you found a tip on in getting consistent work?
• What you have learnt about yourself through the craft and about your craft through the years?

To subscribe to Patreon  (watch the full unedited video version of this) and become a Patron/ supporter of Chai with Rai. 

Social:

Myself: https://www.instagram.com/chaiwithrai_/ & https://twitter.com/chaiwithrai_ & https://www.tiktok.com/@chaiwithrai

Guest: https://www.instagram.com/_vidyapatel/ & https://twitter.com/vidyapatel96 

Links:

Myself: https://www.raimuitfum.com/chaiwithraihomepage &

https://linktr.ee/chaiwithrai_ 

Guest: https://www.vidyapatel.com/ 

Hope you all enjoyed it and Thank you for tuning in. To Subscribe, share, follow my work and everything else is listed above.

If this isn't the most Musical episode then I don't know what is!

I would like to set a challenge of counting how many impromptu singing moments there are in the episode and the correct answer gets a £10 Nando's Gift Card ;). 

Such a joy discussing acting, music and entrepreneurship with Actor & Musician Kush Khanna. 

Topics Breakdown: 

• Discussing Projects such as  - Lime Green/ Boogieman/ Temple/ Patiala House
• Prep work for each of those films and to get into that space. Short films vs the big budget project that were Patiala and Boogieman. 
• What was a challenge and a joy of working on those projects?
• How did Dirty Kit come about and Fashion as an extension. 
• Barry’s - Director of fun? Explain that role and how it progressed and how its been a constant in your life now whilst you balance music and acting. 
• Culture around Boutique fitness studios has changed so much how do you in marketing manage to make it still a household name? Sustainable ever since Covid. 
• Rapid Response Questions: 
  • A tip on being financial savvy?
  • Go back to any role or project what would it be and why? And if you were asked to do a part 2/ expansion of it- input 
  • A great thing about being an artist in today’s social, cultural and economical and a challenging thing about it? 
  • Getting into the role- auditioning or when you have booked the job? And how to let go or sepearate yourself from it?
  • A thing you would like someone to take away with them having met you for a brief second or known you for a long time?
  • Your Favourite thing about yourself either as a creative or person and something you feel is a challenge and are working on?
  • A thing you would like to impart somebody but you never got told ?
  • Words to your mirror self today?
  • 3 things the creative culture could do with and or without?
  • 3 artists really admire their journey or would suggest in checking out their work
• What the Chai- 30 second rant about anything and everything however you must start or end your rant with the phrase "What the Chai?"
• Joyfulness- What's one thing that makes Jordi joyful and whats one thing he does for others that makes them feel joyful. 

Notes: Artists/ organisations mentioned in the episode are: Chappel Roan, Sigrid and The Last Dinner Party. 

To subscribe to Patreon and become a Patron/ supporter of Chai with Rai. 

Social:

Myself: https://www.instagram.com/chaiwithrai_/ & https://twitter.com/chaiwithrai_ & https://www.tiktok.com/@chaiwithrai

Guest : https://www.instagram.com/kushting/?hl=en , https://twitter.com/kushting & https://www.youtube.com/user/Ankushion 

Links:

Myself: https://www.raimuitfum.com/chaiwithraihomepage &

https://linktr.ee/chaiwithrai_ 

Guest: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm3786050/ & https://open.spotify.com/artist/3VP9UNwEr1CtudkjirEU9s?si=uXxaE49RQ6KoBS-vSQMRSQ 

Hope you all enjoyed it and Thank you for tuning in. To Subscribe, share, follow my work and everything else is listed above.

Part 2 aka the final part with actor Tibu Fortes.

From discussing reverence of Shakespeare to co-op's ( not the retail store). 

In the episode we discuss:

• Co-Op's - 3 tools you learnt from on being on the agency side and now to switching to a complete overall management. 
• Lessons you have learnt from the craft about yourself and the craft?
• If you could go back to any role/ project- what would you add/ change to it now with your lived experience?
• Discussing South Asian culture in entertainment. 

To subscribe to Patreon  (watch the full unedited video version of this) and become a Patron/ supporter of Chai with Rai. 

Social:

Myself: https://www.instagram.com/chaiwithrai_/ & https://twitter.com/chaiwithrai_ & https://www.tiktok.com/@chaiwithrai

Guest: https://www.instagram.com/tibufortes/ 

Links:

Myself: https://www.raimuitfum.com/chaiwithraihomepage &

https://linktr.ee/chaiwithrai_ 

Guest: https://www.tibufortes.com/

Hope you all enjoyed it and Thank you for tuning in. To Subscribe, share, follow my work and everything else is listed above.

Finally managed to sit down with the incredible mind that is Tibu Fortes.

Warm up your cuppas as we dive into a 2-parted episode with the actor discussing his morning routines, acting tools/tricks and playing Martin Bashir in his recent work at The Park Theatre. 

In the episode we discuss:

• Since this is Tibu's first ever interview in podcasting I had to ask- How was Drama Centre London and NYT? Their start into acting? What got them the bug and was a Pivotel part in their career to date now?
• If he could go back and re-do a role what would he change or add?
• Navigating etiquette and mindset whilst on the job as an actor?
• Diving into characters such as Harry for Shetland for BBC One vs Martin Bashir for The Park Theatre?
• Balancing personal perceptions when approaching a role and projects and what the outlook of that is - i.e morality compass? 

To subscribe to Patreon  (watch the full unedited video version of this) and become a Patron/ supporter of Chai with Rai. 

Social:

Myself: https://www.instagram.com/chaiwithrai_/ & https://twitter.com/chaiwithrai_ & https://www.tiktok.com/@chaiwithrai

Guest: https://www.instagram.com/tibufortes/ 

Links:

Myself: https://www.raimuitfum.com/chaiwithraihomepage &

https://linktr.ee/chaiwithrai_ 

Guest: https://www.tibufortes.com/

Hope you all enjoyed it and Thank you for tuning in. To Subscribe, share, follow my work and everything else is listed above.

This is PART 2 (Final part of the 100 episode Celebration) 

Massive Thank you to all the guests Two Chickpeas in a Podcast, Zoha Rahman ,  Jay Jay Revlon, Sanjay Lago and Meghna Bhalla.

HERE is the link to the Instagram unfiltered LIVE!

To subscribe to Patreon and become a Patron/ supporter of Chai with Rai. 

Social:

Myself: https://www.instagram.com/chaiwithrai_/ & https://twitter.com/chaiwithrai_ & https://www.tiktok.com/@chaiwithrai

Guest: https://www.instagram.com/twochickpeasinapodcast/ , https://www.instagram.com/zoharahman_/ , https://www.instagram.com/jayjayrevlon/ , https://www.instagram.com/sanjaylago/ & https://www.instagram.com/meghnabhalla/ 

Links:

Myself: https://www.raimuitfum.com/chaiwithraihomepage &

https://linktr.ee/chaiwithrai_ 

Guest: https://linktr.ee/twochickpeasinapodcast , https://app.spotlight.com/5018-7863-0759 ,  https://www.justjayjay.com/  , https://www.sanjaylago.co.uk/ &  https://www.meghnabhalla.com/ 

Hope you all enjoyed it and Thank you for tuning in. To Subscribe, share, follow my work and everything else is listed above.

Celebrating 100 Episodes of Chai with Rai with a very special episode co-hosted with Two Chickpeas in a Podcast, Zoha Rahman and featuring special guests Jay Jay Revlon, Sanjay Lago and Meghna Bhalla.

Now this is part 1 of part 2 so keep an eye out for Part 2!

And as we celebrate 100 episodes- HERE is the link for the Giveaways!

HERE is the link to the Instagram unfiltered LIVE!

To subscribe to Patreon and become a Patron/ supporter of Chai with Rai. 

Social:

Myself: https://www.instagram.com/chaiwithrai_/ & https://twitter.com/chaiwithrai_ & https://www.tiktok.com/@chaiwithrai

Guest: https://www.instagram.com/twochickpeasinapodcast/ , https://www.instagram.com/zoharahman_/ , https://www.instagram.com/jayjayrevlon/ , https://www.instagram.com/sanjaylago/ & https://www.instagram.com/meghnabhalla/ 

Links:

Myself: https://www.raimuitfum.com/chaiwithraihomepage &

https://linktr.ee/chaiwithrai_ 

Guest: https://linktr.ee/twochickpeasinapodcast , https://app.spotlight.com/5018-7863-0759 ,  https://www.justjayjay.com/  , https://www.sanjaylago.co.uk/ &  https://www.meghnabhalla.com/ 

Hope you all enjoyed it and Thank you for tuning in. To Subscribe, share, follow my work and everything else is listed above.

This is the last story from our storytelling series Symphonies of beaded threads. I have loved working on this project, bringing you something more than just an interview or a chat on the podcast and also just flexing that producing/ directing skill in the audio world. I have also appreciated your messages, you sharing each episode, tagging chai with rai and the artists involved. Now If you haven’t done so make sure to check out the previous 7 stories- comment, share and subscribe. 

P.s this is also the 99th episode of Chai with Rai and I am going to be celebrating the 100th episode on IG LIVe on 28th Dec,23 7PM UK TIME co-hosted by some special guests. Make sure to check that out and you can also send through a question you would like myself or the guests to answer. 

But without further adieu, lets warm up that delicious cuppa and let’s dive into today’s story titled "Chemo in the Summer" written and voiced by Gayathiri Kamalakanthan. 

• The Transcript of the piece can be found HERE.  

• If you would like to Donate to this project and a live event which I will be holding soon for the public in a very well known space in Central London CLICK HERE. 

About Gayathiri:

Gayathiri is a Tamil poet and sex education facilitator. They’re interested in how language shapes childhood and how we use it to queer the future. Gayathiri won the Faber & Andlyn Publisher’s Prize 2022, the Primadonna Fiction Prize 2021 and they were shortlisted for the Bridport Poetry Prize 2022. Gayathiri runs the poetry workshop series WORD-BENDERS at The Common Press bookshop in East London. Gayathiri is currently a member of the Southbank New Poets Collective. Their debut novel in verse is forthcoming with Faber.

To subscribe to Patreon  (listen to the audio version of without ads or intro/outro ) and become a Patron/ supporter of Chai with Rai. 

Social:

Myself: https://www.instagram.com/chaiwithrai_/ & https://twitter.com/chaiwithrai_ & https://www.tiktok.com/@chaiwithrai

Guest: https://www.instagram.com/unembarrassable/ 

Links:

Myself: https://www.raimuitfum.com/chaiwithraihomepage &

https://linktr.ee/chaiwithrai_ 

Guest: https://linktr.ee/gayathirikamalakanthan 

Hope you all enjoyed it and Thank you for tuning in. To Subscribe, share, follow my work and everything else is listed above.

Continuing on with the series Symphonies of Beaded Threads and releasing an episode daily. This is the seventh episode/ story titled "Professional Daydreamer" written and voiced by Afriya-Jasmine Nylander. 

• The Transcript of the piece can be found HERE.  

• If you would like to Donate to this project and a live event which I will be holding soon for the public in a very well known space in Central London CLICK HERE. 

About Afriya:

Afriya Nylander is a west London based actor, writer and creative facilitator.  She studied at the Brit School and was apart of the Bridge Company. She has work with theatre such as Old Vic, Kiln Theatre and NYT. She has worked on productions such as Rise at the Kiln, NYT silent Statues and been a part of the NSDF festival. This year she had her professional debut in Charlie Josephine play “Flies”.

To subscribe to Patreon  (listen to the audio version of without ads or intro/outro ) and become a Patron/ supporter of Chai with Rai. 

Social:

Myself: https://www.instagram.com/chaiwithrai_/ & https://twitter.com/chaiwithrai_ & https://www.tiktok.com/@chaiwithrai

Guest: https://www.instagram.com/afriya.j/

Links:

Myself: https://www.raimuitfum.com/chaiwithraihomepage &

https://linktr.ee/chaiwithrai_ 

Hope you all enjoyed it and Thank you for tuning in. To Subscribe, share, follow my work and everything else is listed above.

Today's melodic story from the series Symphonies of Beaded Threads is by Riana Howarth and is called "She'd Sit". 

• The Transcript of the piece can be found HERE.  

• If you would like to Donate to this project and a live event which I will be holding soon for the public in a very well known space in Central London CLICK HERE. 

About Riana:

Riana is an aspiring writer and illustrator with a curiosity for all/most things weird and wonderful. With a background in acting and experience in assisting in youth theatre classes at the Questors Theatre, she uses this knowledge to inspire her creative writing. Between writing theatre reviews for North West End UK, she is trying to develop a consistent writing practice, exploring various themes, topics and styles. She is currently part of the Fresh Direction Program at The Young Vic Theatre (2022/2023).

To subscribe to Patreon  (listen to the audio version of without ads or intro/outro ) and become a Patron/ supporter of Chai with Rai. 

Social:

Myself: https://www.instagram.com/chaiwithrai_/ & https://twitter.com/chaiwithrai_ & https://www.tiktok.com/@chaiwithrai

Guest: https://www.instagram.com/art.riiii/ & https://creatorsprogram.youngvic.org/member/10091

Links:

Myself: https://www.raimuitfum.com/chaiwithraihomepage &

https://linktr.ee/chaiwithrai_ 

Hope you all enjoyed it and Thank you for tuning in. To Subscribe, share, follow my work and everything else is listed above.

We are in the second half of the storytelling series Symphonies of Beaded Threads and today's story is called "Take My Picture" by Soria Hamidi and voiced by Leila McQuaid .

• The Transcript of the piece can be found HERE.  

• If you would like to Donate to this project and a live event which I will be holding soon for the public in a very well known space in Central London CLICK HERE. 

About Soria:

Soria Hamidi is an Afghan playwright, prose fiction writer and dramaturg. Her work focuses on silenced histories, communities and people by exploring the stories through a class-based, racial and feminist perspective. 

She has completed the Kiln Theatre’s Listen Local Writers Programme where she developed and staged her short play on Afghan feminism. She has been selected for the London Library’s Emerging Writers Programme to research and write a play on the commercialisation of war and trauma. She completed the Writerz and Scribez and the Vineyard Theatre Literary Programme. 

To subscribe to Patreon  (listen to the audio version of without ads or intro/outro ) and become a Patron/ supporter of Chai with Rai. 

Social:

Myself: https://www.instagram.com/chaiwithrai_/ & https://twitter.com/chaiwithrai_ & https://www.tiktok.com/@chaiwithrai

Guest: https://www.instagram.com/soriahh/ & https://twitter.com/leilamcquaid 

Links:

Myself: https://www.raimuitfum.com/chaiwithraihomepage &

https://linktr.ee/chaiwithrai_ 

Hope you all enjoyed it and Thank you for tuning in. To Subscribe, share, follow my work and everything else is listed above.

Halfway there and today’s story from the series Symphonies of Beaded of Threads is titled "38%" by Ra’eesah.

• The Transcript of the piece can be found HERE.  

• If you would like to Donate to this project and a live event which I will be holding soon for the public in a very well known space in Central London CLICK HERE. 

About Ra'eesah: 

Ra’eesah is a multifaceted creative using the mediums of theatre, film, music and spoken word to tell stories, bring people together and effect positive change. She has performed on stage as an actor and singer at the Bush Theatre as well as with The Old Vic/Neon Arts. 

She has produced projects such as The Self-Expression Sessions, a series of spoken word poetry workshops open to people of all ages and abilities, to increase accessibility to the arts and build community through creativity and culture.

Further projects Ra’eesah has produced on include Licence to DV8 at the Royal Albert Hall and arts festivals at Almeida Theatre and London Bubble, focusing on outreach. She is a trustee of the Roundhouse and WEST Youth Zone and has contributed to several other organisations including Old Vic Theatre and A New Direction through youth advisory.

To subscribe to Patreon  (listen to the audio version of without ads or intro/outro ) and become a Patron/ supporter of Chai with Rai. 

Social:

Myself: https://www.instagram.com/chaiwithrai_/ & https://twitter.com/chaiwithrai_ & https://www.tiktok.com/@chaiwithrai

Guest: https://www.instagram.com/ra.eesahh/ , https://twitter.com/Ra_eesahh & https://app.spotlight.com/3812-7862-7993

Links:

Myself: https://www.raimuitfum.com/chaiwithraihomepage &

https://linktr.ee/chaiwithrai_ 

Hope you all enjoyed it and Thank you for tuning in. To Subscribe, share, follow my work and everything else is listed above.

Happy Third Day!

Today's story from the series Symphonies of Beaded Threads is by Bethany Gemmell and is called "Catherine". Fun fact: it actually features Bethany's mum Catherine. 

• The Transcript of the piece can be found HERE.  
• If you would like to Donate to this project and a live event which I will be holding soon for the public in a very well known space in Central London CLICK HERE. 

About Bethany: 

Bethany Henry Gemmell LLM (he/him) is a Northern non-binary artist in London, working as Production Coordinator for a multi-award-winning company. In 2022, he quit working as a teacher and dove into theatre and television full-time. Career highlights so far include: producing, directing and writing for Neurospace Theatre's showcase presenting autistic work at Barons Court in February 2022; stage-managing for Black British Theatre-nominated Saturn Returns at Brixton House/Southbank Centre/Northern School of Contemporary Dance; and being assistant director for the LGBT+ play Welcome Home at Soho Theatre in January 2023. His biggest creative passion is writing. Currently, he is a part of Young Vic's selective Creators Program and he has a television show in development that is based on his play M. E. Trout, which is about an autistic woman dealing with grief and broken relationships. When he is not working, he is building a trans theatre company (Twitter: @transgrtheatre) and reading about sociopolitical issues, so much so that he has recently graduated with a Masters in Human Rights Law - as such, he gets quite nerdy about that sort of thing. His staged short play Wolf (2023), which was his first ever submission to Theatre503's Rapid Write Response scheme, is the latest achievement in Bethany's emerging writing career.

To subscribe to Patreon  (listen to the audio version of without ads or intro/outro ) and become a Patron/ supporter of Chai with Rai. 

Social:

Myself: https://www.instagram.com/chaiwithrai_/ & https://twitter.com/chaiwithrai_ & https://www.tiktok.com/@chaiwithrai

Guest: https://www.instagram.com/hgemmellian/ & https://twitter.com/hengemmell 

Links:

Myself: https://www.raimuitfum.com/chaiwithraihomepage &

https://linktr.ee/chaiwithrai_ 

Guest: https://creatorsprogram.youngvic.org/member/11946

Hope you all enjoyed it and Thank you for tuning in. To Subscribe, share, follow my work and everything else is listed above.

I love a giddy chat and this was that! 

Firstly, this episode is also available as Video so check that out now on Spotify and Youtube. Secondly, this is going to be a 2-parted episode because we had too much to talk about. 

Soooooo- Enjoy part 1 with the beaut Actor and Musician Kush Khanna. Discussing all things music, family, friendships, spirituality and more. 

Topics Breakdown: 

• Can you Improv Tho?-  x4 Quick Questions set to specific timers.
• Referencing Kush's "Imposter syndrome" mentioned in previous episodes and where that stems from?

• The duality of Kush's exuberance with his music. 

• First moment you were exposed to that made you go "Music is me". And a song or moment around music, that you have shared with your your Mum and Dad. 

• Being an Indie artist and the journey of that? Sustainability and marketing? Distribution? 
• Song's you have done for all your projects.
• Relationship with music today and what the medium has taught you vs what you have learnt from it?
• The connection to self and spirituality. 
• Process to songwriting and Kush's style of music. 

To subscribe to Patreon and become a Patron/ supporter of Chai with Rai. 

Social:

Myself: https://www.instagram.com/chaiwithrai_/ & https://twitter.com/chaiwithrai_ & https://www.tiktok.com/@chaiwithrai

Guest : https://www.instagram.com/kushting/?hl=en , https://twitter.com/kushting & https://www.youtube.com/user/Ankushion 

Links:

Myself: https://www.raimuitfum.com/chaiwithraihomepage &

https://linktr.ee/chaiwithrai_ 

Guest: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm3786050/ & https://open.spotify.com/artist/3VP9UNwEr1CtudkjirEU9s?si=uXxaE49RQ6KoBS-vSQMRSQ 

Hope you all enjoyed it and Thank you for tuning in. To Subscribe, share, follow my work and everything else is listed above.

Continuing on with the series Symphonies of Beaded Threads and releasing an episode daily. This is the second episode titled "An Epic: as told by my grandma’s photo album" written and performed by Yasmine Dankwah. 

About Yasmine: 

Yasmine Dankwah is a British-Ghanaian spoken word artist and writer based in South London. She is interested in exploring how resistance in the form of identity-based discrimination can act as a springboard for joy in live performance by using music, spoken word poetry and lyricism. She is currently an artist on Boundless Theatre’s Accelerator programme and is working with Chronic Insanity Theatre to develop new writing for theatre. She is an alumnus of the Soho Writers’ Lab 2021/2, VAULT New Writers Programme in 2020, a Roundhouse Poetry Slam Finalist '22 and was a recent recipient of the Francis Chagrin Award this year.

• The Transcript of the piece can be found HERE.  
• If you would like to Donate to this project and a live event which I will be holding soon for the public in a very well known space in Central London CLICK HERE. 

To subscribe to Patreon  (listen to the audio version of without ads or intro/outro ) and become a Patron/ supporter of Chai with Rai. 

Social:

Myself: https://www.instagram.com/chaiwithrai_/ & https://twitter.com/chaiwithrai_ & https://www.tiktok.com/@chaiwithrai

Guest: https://www.instagram.com/yasminedankwah/ & https://twitter.com/yasmined77?lang=en 

Links:

Myself: https://www.raimuitfum.com/chaiwithraihomepage &

https://linktr.ee/chaiwithrai_ 

Hope you all enjoyed it and Thank you for tuning in. To Subscribe, share, follow my work and everything else is listed above.

Today's episode marks the launch of a NEW series I am doing on Chai with Rai called Symphonies of Beaded Threads.

This 8 episode short audio series, which I will dropping daily for the next 8 days !  Takes shape in different formats from poetry to spoken word to theatrical pieces, monologues  and more by 8 different writers/ creatives.  I will also be releasing interviews with each writer of the pieces soon so keep an eye out for that.

However! Without further Adieu let's dive into the first story called "Brainfreeze" by Carmina Bernhardt.  

• The Transcript of the piece can be found HERE.  
• If you would like to Donate to this project and a live event which I will be holding soon for the public in a very well known space in Central London CLICK HERE. 

To subscribe to Patreon  (listen to the audio version of without ads or intro/outro ) and become a Patron/ supporter of Chai with Rai. 

Social:

Myself: https://www.instagram.com/chaiwithrai_/ & https://twitter.com/chaiwithrai_ & https://www.tiktok.com/@chaiwithrai

Guest: https://www.instagram.com/carminabernhardt/ & https://twitter.com/dasbernhardt?lang=en

Links:

Myself: https://www.raimuitfum.com/chaiwithraihomepage &

https://linktr.ee/chaiwithrai_ 

Guest: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm6486835/ & https://app.spotlight.com/9179-0197-9303 

Hope you all enjoyed it and Thank you for tuning in. To Subscribe, share, follow my work and everything else is listed above.

The title says it all- I'm just saying 👀☕️. 

Part 2 with Facilitator, Choreographer, Speaker, Cabaret Artist and Founder of Bollyqueer (Bollywood dance space celebrating the LGBTQ+ community)  Vinay Jobanputra. 

From discussing Queerness- in specific within the South Asian Community to art influencing life to milky tea and more. 

In the episode we talk about: 

• Dance Journey- Thoughts on the South Asian dance scene in the UK? How did they get involved ? Bollywood dancing at large? 
• Queerness, Identity & Sexuality- Biggest Hurdles and joy? Dating? Identity- where or when were those big conversations for you and what did you learn from having them ? 
• South Asian Culture-  The most difficult and joyful things about Queerness within those spaces? 
• 3 tips on monetising and starting a queer business?
• Words to your mirror self?
• 3 things the LGBTQ scene could do with or without?
• A thing South asians or the culture could do with or without ?
• A great thing about being brown and queer and a challenging thing about it? 
• A thing you would like someone to take away with them having met you for a brief second or known you for a long time?
• Your Favourite thing about yourself either as a creative or person and something you feel is a challenge and are working on?
• A thing you would like to impart somebody but you never got told?
• 3 artists in dance you really admire their journey or would suggest in checking out their work ?

To subscribe to Patreon  (watch the full unedited video version of this) and become a Patron/ supporter of Chai with Rai. 

Social:

Myself: https://www.instagram.com/chaiwithrai_/ & https://twitter.com/chaiwithrai_ & https://www.tiktok.com/@chaiwithrai

Guest: https://www.instagram.com/vinayjobanputraa/ , https://www.instagram.com/bollyqueer/ & https://www.tiktok.com/@gayavaneesh_?lang=en

Links:

Myself: https://www.raimuitfum.com/chaiwithraihomepage &

https://linktr.ee/chaiwithrai_ 

Guest: http://www.bollyqueer.com/about & https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m001k4mw 

Hope you all enjoyed it and Thank you for tuning in. To Subscribe, share, follow my work and everything else is listed above.