In this episode, Tom Swift shares insights from his 15-year journey in theatre production, including creating successful pantos, building community theatre, and nurturing young talent through the Wicked Academy. Discover how he keeps productions fresh, the importance of casting, and the behind-the-scenes challenges of theatre.

Connect with Wicked Productions:
https://instagram.com/wkdproductions
https://www.captiv8productions.co.uk/

Connect with Wicked Academy:
https://instagram.com/wickedacademytw
https://www.wickedacademy.co.uk/

Book Your Tickets to Gravesend Panto 'Wizard of Oz' at The Woodville Theatre:
https://www.woodville.co.uk/events/christmas-panto-wizard-of-oz/
https://instagram.com/gravesendpanto

Book Your Tickets to Tonbridge Panto 'Cinderella' at EM Forster Theatre:
https://emftheatre.ticketsolve.com/ticketbooth/shows/1173664016/events/428707732
https://instagram.com/wkdproductions

Connect with the Host Barney:
https://instagram.com/barneyduds


#BarneysBackstagePod #BarneyDuds #WickedProductions #WickedAcademy

In this episode, Rai Quartley shares her journey from performing on stage and in music videos to choreographing and acting, highlighting the importance of storytelling, authenticity, and perseverance in the entertainment industry.

In this episode, Dax O'Callaghan shares his journey from childhood performer to seasoned artist, highlighting the importance of confidence, authenticity, and resilience in the entertainment industry. Discover insights on navigating fame, the creative process, and staying true to your passion.

A quick backstage disclaimer 😄🚆
Because we filmed this episode in a live location, the audio is muffled in parts of the episode due to nearby overhead train lines… but trust us, it’s worth it for the chat with Dax 👀🎙️

Join us in this episode as Darren Charles shares his inspiring journey through the performing arts, transforming from a young ballet dancer to a celebrated West End star, and venturing into film and television. Discover his insights into the realities of showbiz, his creative process, and the lessons he's learned along the way.

In this episode:

• Darren's first childhood performance at age five in ballet and early influences
• His experiences performing at Nottingham Hill Carnival and the magic of live shows
• The importance of continuous training and the biggest lessons from his theatre journeys
• How he prepares to embody iconic characters such as Sammy Davis Jr.
• The differences between performing in the West End and touring internationally
• His favourite roles, including Sammy Davis Jr. and his project The Screams of Kitty Genoese
• The thrill and unpredictability of live shows and audience interactions
• How he developed his alter ego Saucy Davis Jr. and his love for cabaret performances
• Comparing stage acting to screen acting, and balancing multiple creative pursuits
• Perseverance in the industry, overcoming confidence challenges, and staying inspired
• Darren's dream project inspired by Cirque du Soleil's KA and his thoughts on industry acceptance of diverse personalities
• Practical advice for aspiring performers with neurodiversity and his pre-show rituals

Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction and Darren's early childhood performances
02:29 - Performing at Nottingham Hill Carnival and his love for live events
01:56 - Training in dance, art, and musical theatre, and artistic influences
03:24 - Experience at Urdang Academy and enduring the rigorous training
04:20 - Favourite roles and his portrayal of Sammy Davis Jr.
05:19 - Comparing performances in the West End vs touring around the world
06:45 - His most memorable pinch-me moments in the industry
07:15 - Working with Olivier Award winners and his connection to iconic roles
08:55 - Preparing for legendary characters and embodying their spirit
09:55 - Audience moments and interactions during live performances
10:25 - The creation of Saucy Davis Jr. and his cabaret experiences
11:26 - The joys of creating and directing cabaret shows
12:44 - Live stage mishaps and behind-the-scenes surprises
14:12 - Differences between stage and screen acting and advice for neurodiverse performers
15:55 - Overcoming confidence struggles and childhood challenges in performance
16:24 - Reflection on his journey and what younger Darren would think
16:54 - Balancing acting, singing, dancing, and directing, and staying inspired
18:23 - Dream show inspirations like Cirque du Soleil's KA and how Darren envisions blockbuster productions
19:22 - Favourite songs and his musical inspirations
20:04 - His pre-show rituals and the ongoing planning of artistic projects
20:32 - What's next for Darren and how audiences can follow his journey
21:01 - Final thoughts and where to see Darren perform live or online

Resources & Links:

• Darren Charles Official Website
• Cirque du Soleil KA
• The Screams of Kitty Genoese

Connect with Darren:

• Darren Charles on Instagram