This episode, we're joined by writer-director Ellie Coote and composer-lyricist Jack Godfrey, the award-winning creative team behind the smash-hit new musical Hot Mess.

Following acclaimed runs at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and Southwark Playhouse, Hot Mess returns this summer for an extended London season at The Other Palace. The high-energy original romcom reimagines the climate crisis as the ultimate relationship drama, turning Earth and Humanity into star-crossed lovers whose billion-year romance may finally be heading for a messy break-up.

During our conversation, Ellie and Jack discuss the journey of creating one of the most exciting new British musicals of recent years, from its Fringe First Award-winning beginnings to becoming a multi-award-winning audience favourite. They talk about writing comedy around such a huge global issue, why hope sits at the heart of the story, and how they balance big ideas with infectious pop songs and laugh-out-loud humour.

We also explore their creative partnership, the success of 42 Balloons, the challenges of developing original musical theatre in the UK, and what they've learned from watching audiences connect with the show's environmental message in unexpected ways.

Plus, we discuss the show's exciting new London cast, with Danielle Steers returning as Earth and Morgan Gregory joining the company as Humanity for what promises to be a bigger, bolder and even more spectacular production at The Other Palace.

If you've ever wondered how to turn climate change into a hilarious, heartfelt and surprisingly romantic musical, this conversation is for you.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.