Emma Noel's creative journey reads like a masterclass in artistic resilience and reinvention. From backing vocals at Eurovision 2003 (with the infamous "nil points" Gemini entry) to West End stages, gritty British films, children's TV sensation Hi5, and finally founding director of Pop Vox Choir – her career defies conventional paths while showcasing the power of adaptability.

What strikes you immediately about Emma is her boundless energy and willingness to leap fearlessly toward new opportunities. When faced with a choice between continuing her dream role as Linda in Blood Brothers or joining Hi-5 for international tours, she chose adventure – leaving what she calls "little bonfires" behind as she moved toward the next creative challenge. This pattern of bold career pivots reveals a truth about creative industries: the most fulfilling paths rarely follow straight lines.

The heart of our conversation centers on Emma's creation of Pop Vox Choir in 2011. What began as a Monday night project to provide stable income while auditioning has blossomed into a franchise operation that transforms lives through the power of communal singing. "When you sing in a group, your hearts synchronise," Emma explains – a beautiful metaphor for the emotional connection forged among choir members. The choir isn't just about performance; it's a community where people find healing, friendship, and joy through music.

Most poignant is Emma's reflection on resilience: "For every high there's three lows – that is the industry." Yet she maintains that the fulfilment from pursuing your passion makes the journey worthwhile. Her story challenges the outdated notion that creative professionals must stay in one lane. Instead, she embodies the modern portfolio career, where diverse experiences enrich rather than dilute artistic identity.

Have you found your creative community? Are you giving yourself permission to explore different artistic avenues? Emma's journey reminds us that the most meaningful creative lives often emerge from saying "yes" to unexpected opportunities and finding connection through shared passion.

https://popvoxchoir.co.uk/

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The Before the Applause Podcast is available for you to listen to across all your favourite podcast platforms, and don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss a thing. Please do tell your colleagues, networks, friends and family about us, and stay connected with us across all the usual social media platforms.

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What does it mean to choose fulfilment over happiness in a creative career? Laura Harvey, Head of Creative Programmes at English National Ballet, shares her powerful journey from dancer to industry change-maker in a conversation that challenges traditional notions of success in the arts.

With infectious energy and hard-won wisdom, Laura reveals how her career has evolved across 15 transformative years at ENB, demolishing barriers between "elite" dance and community engagement. She speaks candidly about the limitations of traditional training pathways, the unnecessary walls between artistic excellence and accessibility, and her mission to create dance opportunities that span generations – from her youngest participants at nine to her oldest at eighty-three.

The conversation delves into Laura's work with Parents in Performing Arts and Dance Mama, addressing the critical "talent hemorrhage" when performers, particularly mothers, struggle to balance parenthood with creative careers. Her initiatives demonstrate how the industry can evolve to retain its most valuable resource – experienced artists who might otherwise be forced to abandon their calling.

Throughout our conversation, Laura returns to a theme that has shaped her approach to leadership: the distinction between seeking happiness (which often proves elusive) and pursuing fulfilment through meaningful work. This perspective offers a refreshing counterpoint to our culture's relentless focus on happiness, suggesting instead that engagement with challenging, purpose-driven work provides deeper satisfaction.

Despite acknowledging serious challenges facing arts education and funding, Laura radiates optimism about emerging talent. She celebrates young dancers who approach their craft with both technical excellence and expansive vision, seeing possibilities beyond traditional pathways. Her insights remind us that while institutions may change, the transformative power of dance remains constant through those committed to sharing its magic.

Support the show

The Before the Applause Podcast is available for you to listen to across all your favourite podcast platforms, and don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss a thing. Please do tell your colleagues, networks, friends and family about us, and stay connected with us across all the usual social media platforms.

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If you’ve got any burning questions, want to share your own insights, recommend a guest or be one yourself, then we’d love to hear from you. You can direct message on any of our social accounts or email [email protected]

What does it really take to create cultural moments that captivate millions? Martin Green CBE pulls back the curtain on his extraordinary career spanning the London 2012 Olympic ceremonies, Hull City of Culture, Birmingham Commonwealth Games, and now the Eurovision Song Contest.

From an unexpected start helping with a school production of A Midsummer Night's Dream to directing global spectacles watched by billions, Martin's journey is testament to the power of passion and persistence. "I'm one of those lucky people who gets to do what they love for a living," he reflects, describing how a chance encounter as a teenager completely changed his trajectory from hotel management to theatrical production.

Green's refreshing candour about leadership offers valuable insights for anyone in the creative industries. He speaks with striking honesty about managing public opinion, emphasising that creating large-scale, publicly-funded events naturally invites scrutiny: "You know what you're getting into... that's sort of what it's for." Rather than being paralysed by criticism, Green focuses on protecting his team and ensuring the work speaks for itself.

Perhaps most fascinating is Martin's evolving relationship with risk. Working on the Olympics bestowed what he calls "informed recklessness"—the confidence to attempt seemingly impossible feats like placing a 75-meter wind turbine blade in Hull's city centre. His advice? Separate genuine risk from unfounded fear, and recognise when resistance stems from agendas rather than legitimate concerns.

Now leading the Eurovision Song Contest, Martin speaks passionately about this 70-year phenomenon that has accidentally created "the perfect event for the digital age." With 37 new pieces of content annually and audiences spanning 163 countries, Green sees enormous potential to unite people through music when the world desperately needs connection.

Whether you're an aspiring event producer, cultural leader, or simply curious about what happens before the applause, this episode offers rare insight into creating memorable shared experiences that resonate long after the final bow.

Support the show

The Before the Applause Podcast is available for you to listen to across all your favourite podcast platforms, and don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss a thing. Please do tell your colleagues, networks, friends and family about us, and stay connected with us across all the usual social media platforms.

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If you’ve got any burning questions, want to share your own insights, recommend a guest or be one yourself, then we’d love to hear from you. You can direct message on any of our social accounts or email [email protected]

What does it take to build a thriving dance career against the backdrop of dwindling arts funding and disappearing courses? Paul Doyle reveals exactly that, sharing his remarkable journey from a shy schoolboy choreographing cringeworthy dance routines to becoming the driving force behind Liverpool's resurrected LEAP Dance Festival.

This conversation takes us through Paul's winding path through education—from a combined honours degree at Hope University to an MA at Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts and a challenging PGCE—all while discovering his true calling wasn't performing himself but creating opportunities for others. The pivotal moment came while working with a group of young boys that became known as "CHAOS," where Paul witnessed the transformative power of performance through others' experiences rather than his own.

Paul speaks candidly about the hustle required to make a living in dance—juggling teaching positions, community classes, and festival production simultaneously—and the inevitable burnout that follows. Yet his unwavering belief in dance's importance shines through most powerfully when he states: "We make the world more bearable for people." This ethos has fueled his determination to revive LEAP Dance Festival despite minimal funding, creating a celebration that spans from professional international artists to community participants.

For anyone considering a creative path, Paul offers hard-earned wisdom about resilience, authenticity, and vision. "Be true to who you are," he advises, pushing back against the pressure to assimilate into what you think an arts professional should be. His story demonstrates that success comes not from chasing trends but from steadfastly pursuing your unique vision, even when that means starting small and growing organically.

Whether you're a dance enthusiast, a creative professional, or simply curious about how passion projects come to life, this episode offers a rare glimpse into the realities of building something meaningful in the arts. Experience Paul's journey and perhaps find inspiration for your own creative endeavors—and if you're near Liverpool between April 26th and May 9th, don't miss the chance to witness LEAP Dance Festival for yourself!

Support the show

The Before the Applause Podcast is available for you to listen to across all your favourite podcast platforms, and don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss a thing. Please do tell your colleagues, networks, friends and family about us, and stay connected with us across all the usual social media platforms.

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If you’ve got any burning questions, want to share your own insights, recommend a guest or be one yourself, then we’d love to hear from you. You can direct message on any of our social accounts or email [email protected]

Join us for an enlightening sit-down with marketing visionary, Dawn Payne. Dawn takes us from her modest beginnings in Bootle to her influential role at Nintendo, where she brought to life some of the most iconic gaming campaigns. She shares the wisdom she gleaned from the legendary Satoru Iwata, whose leadership continues to inspire her approach to creativity and inclusivity in marketing.

In today's episode, Dawn paints a vivid picture of her ascent up the corporate ladder, becoming a prominent female figure in a male-dominated industry. We tackle the complexities of marketing within the gaming world, and Dawn offers insights into the collaborative efforts that go into launching a successful video game. She also addresses the contrast between high-pressure corporate stakes and the agility needed in smaller creative projects, illustrating the balance necessary for innovation and success.

We close on a reflective note, appreciating the human elements that define effective leadership. Dawn underscores the importance of creativity, empathy, and the collective contribution of all roles in the creative process. Beyond strategy and numbers, we find solace in shared experiences and the connections we build, reminding us of the joy and fulfilment that come from pursuing our creative passions.

Support the show

The Before the Applause Podcast is available for you to listen to across all your favourite podcast platforms, and don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss a thing. Please do tell your colleagues, networks, friends and family about us, and stay connected with us across all the usual social media platforms.

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If you’ve got any burning questions, want to share your own insights, recommend a guest or be one yourself, then we’d love to hear from you. You can direct message on any of our social accounts or email [email protected]

Get ready to journey into a world where creativity meets ergonomics as we chat with Tahra Zafar, a remarkable costume and creature puppet creator. Tahra's work has graced films like Star Wars VII and The Fifth Element, and her skillset has been tapped for high-profile events such as the 2012 London Olympics & Paralympics. Hear how she pushes the boundaries of costume design, and how she uses body ergonomics to create spellbinding costumes that can change the course of a performance.

The conversation takes a thoughtful turn as Tahra shares her experiences leading diverse teams for colossal projects and how this has contributed to her personal growth. She also discusses how she mentors new graduates entering the industry, giving them a real-world perspective and the skills they need to successfully navigate the industry. We also probe into the challenges that have come up in the wake of the pandemic and how the entertainment industry has had to adapt.

In the final segment, Tahra opens up about her fight for recognition in a field that often overlooks the behind-the-scenes roles. She shares her aspirations for long-term projects and talks about her current project 'Free your mind' with Danny Boyle. Finally, we discuss the importance of the entertainment industry in these trying times and the strong link between creativity and mental health. This conversation with Tahra Zafar is a revealing glimpse into the intense dedication and passion that fuels the entertainment industry. Don't miss out!

www.tahrazafar.com

Support the show

The Before the Applause Podcast is available for you to listen to across all your favourite podcast platforms, and don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss a thing. Please do tell your colleagues, networks, friends and family about us, and stay connected with us across all the usual social media platforms.

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If you’ve got any burning questions, want to share your own insights, recommend a guest or be one yourself, then we’d love to hear from you. You can direct message on any of our social accounts or email [email protected]

We're thrilled to host the pint-sized powerhouse, Louise Yates, a luminary in the arts  renowned for her pioneering approach to community engagement. Prepare to join us as we journey through her inspiring narrative, from the theatre-loving schoolgirl spurred on by a visionary drama teacher, to the artistic director and producer shaking up the arts scene. Louise's vibrant stories of her work with Hull City Council and her instrumental role in Hull's recognition as UK City of Culture 2017 promise to inspire.

Louise has a unique approach to arts programming that she generously details for listeners, placing the community in the driver's seat and revealing how her methods break down barriers and foster long-lasting, impactful connections. Her insights into the exciting, grass-roots creative scene in Hull, as well as her reflections on her personal evolution from actor and musician to producer and director, add depth to her narrative. From Louise, we learn the power of adaptability, of taking a step back to listen and understand the real needs of the community, evolving into a more reflective practitioner.

Despite challenges and hurdles, Louise's optimism for the future of the arts scene is infectious. She delves into her experiences, the struggles of bridging the gap between policy makers and the people, and why the arts should never be viewed as a low priority. Her passion for community engagement shines through as she shares her insights, leaving listeners with a sense of hope and inspiration. So, pull up a chair and join us for this extraordinary conversation with Louise Yates, a true advocate for the arts, community, and the power of human connection.

Support the show

The Before the Applause Podcast is available for you to listen to across all your favourite podcast platforms, and don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss a thing. Please do tell your colleagues, networks, friends and family about us, and stay connected with us across all the usual social media platforms.

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If you’ve got any burning questions, want to share your own insights, recommend a guest or be one yourself, then we’d love to hear from you. You can direct message on any of our social accounts or email [email protected]

The glow of the chicken shop might seem worlds away from the grandeur of the box office, and audience insights and analysis, but not for our guest Wez Thistlethwaite, who credits his first job serving customers and juggling tasks for his deep understanding of audience insight. Join us for a thought-provoking conversation as we traverse the connection between chicken shops, box offices, and the arts and culture sector.

Wez takes us on a fascinating journey through the maze of the human mind, exploring how it can be influenced and how this knowledge can revolutionise marketing tactics in the arts and culture sector. We delve into the power of data and the importance of insight, not just as tools for understanding our audience, but also as a guiding compass in decision-making. However, it's not all rosy, as Wez opens up about the mental health implications of working with data and insights in an organisation.

As we wrap up our enlightening chat, Wez shares pearls of wisdom about breaking into the creative industries, emphasizing the intrinsic role of critical thinking. He recollects his grandfather's wise words, which have shaped his own decision-making process. So, whether you're an industry veteran or a novice hungry for knowledge, this episode promises to challenge your perceptions and inspire fresh ideas. Let's step away from the norm and embrace the power of different perspectives in the arts and culture sector.

Support the show

The Before the Applause Podcast is available for you to listen to across all your favourite podcast platforms, and don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss a thing. Please do tell your colleagues, networks, friends and family about us, and stay connected with us across all the usual social media platforms.

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If you’ve got any burning questions, want to share your own insights, recommend a guest or be one yourself, then we’d love to hear from you. You can direct message on any of our social accounts or email [email protected]

Have you ever wondered what it's like to navigate the constantly evolving world of the creative art sector? We spent a captivating hour with our guest, the multifaceted Kate Scanlan, who shares her unique journey. From her dance degree at Surrey University to her time at Saddler's Wales, Kate recounts the highs and lows of her career, including an unsuccessful job application that led her to carve out a more unconventional path.

Kate illuminates the workings of her project, Scanners Inc, a testament to her entrepreneurial spirit. She delves into the importance of nurturing young talent and the challenges she faced in balancing personal and professional identities. We also explore the critical role of partnerships in the art sectors and the resilience needed to stay committed amidst these challenges. Kate's narration isn't short of inspiring anecdotes, reminding us that passion and determination are key drivers in the creative industry.

In the concluding part of our discussion, we tackle the post-pandemic struggles of the creative art sector and potential solutions. Kate and I exchange thoughts on how to revolutionise the sector, from creating equitable working conditions to transforming work policies. As we ponder upon Kate's personal indicators of success and lessons learned, we realise that challenging conventions is essential to progress. This podcast episode is a testament to the grit and resilience needed in the arts, making it a must-listen for aspiring artists and enthusiasts alike.

Support the show

The Before the Applause Podcast is available for you to listen to across all your favourite podcast platforms, and don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss a thing. Please do tell your colleagues, networks, friends and family about us, and stay connected with us across all the usual social media platforms.

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If you’ve got any burning questions, want to share your own insights, recommend a guest or be one yourself, then we’d love to hear from you. You can direct message on any of our social accounts or email [email protected]

Welcome to the Before the Applause Podcast.

The Before the Applause Podcast, hosted by David Watson, is an audio deep-dive into what it really takes to create all the incredible arts and cultural experiences that we’re fortunate to have in our daily lives.
 
In this introduction to the Before the Applause Podcast, David talks about the inspiration behind creating the show, why you should listen, subscribe and tell everyone you know about it, as well as what you can expect from our upcoming series. 

Support the show

The Before the Applause Podcast is available for you to listen to across all your favourite podcast platforms, and don’t forget to subscribe so you don’t miss a thing. Please do tell your colleagues, networks, friends and family about us, and stay connected with us across all the usual social media platforms.

Twitter
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Facebook

If you’ve got any burning questions, want to share your own insights, recommend a guest or be one yourself, then we’d love to hear from you. You can direct message on any of our social accounts or email [email protected]