Stage Struck The Am-Dram Banter Podcast

This week, we’re diving into a magical review of Beauty and the Beast – did it enchant or fall flat? Plus, we’re spilling the beans on the upcoming We Will Rock You auditions and what hopefuls need to know. All that, and yes… we recorded this one in a secret location – can you guess where? It’s a mix of fairy tales, rock anthems, and a little behind-the-scenes chaos. You’re in for a treat!

In this episode, We sit down with Huddersfield’s own Martin Stead – director, performer, and now chairman of the Longwood Amateur Operatic Society. We chat about his exciting new role, his passion for the stage, and what it’s like to take the reins of such a beloved local group. Martin gives us the inside scoop on directing a double cast of talented young performers in School of Rock, and shares fond memories of past productions like Shrek and Sunset Boulevard. Plus, he teases some big shows coming up for the society that you won’t want to miss. It’s a brilliant mix of backstage stories, leadership insight, and pure am-dram enthusiasts.

In this episode, we're diving into all things am-dram! First up, exciting news as We Will Rock You storms onto the amateur stage – what does this mean for local theatre groups, and who’s brave enough to take it on? Then, it’s curtain up on Hairspray in Huddersfield – I’ll give you my honest, unfiltered review of the production: the highs, the lows, and everything in between. Plus, a quick catch-up on all the latest theatre buzz you won’t want to miss. Whether you're a seasoned stage star or a seat-in-the-stalls fan, there’s something here for you.

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In this episode of *Stagestruck*, we catch up with Halifax’s own Neil Hurst for a lively chat about his incredible journey from local am-dram stages to the bright lights of national tours. Neil shares how his early days in amateur dramatics sparked a lifelong love of performance, leading to standout roles on TV in shows like *Coronation Street* and *Brassic*. We dive into his passion for pantomime, where he’s become a beloved fixture (oh yes he has!), and get the inside scoop on his latest adventure touring the UK as Edna Turnblad in *Hairspray*. Plus, Neil teases what’s next on his ever-growing list of projects. Packed with laughs, heart, and backstage stories, this episode is a must-listen for theatre fans and aspiring performers alike!

In this final installment of our *Jesus Christ Superstar* journey, we’re dishing out all the highs, lows, and behind-the-scenes giggles from rehearsals to showtime. From the incredible family bond we built from day one to the unforgettable moments on (and off) stage, this one’s packed with heart. Plus, we share the beautiful feedback we've received from the public since last week’s performance—it’s got us feeling all the feels. Grab a cuppa and join us for one last supper of Superstar banter!

This week on Stagestruck, we sit down with the man, the myth, the Messiah… Joe Medlock! Best known to us as our very own Jesus Christ, Joe lifts the curtain on the trials, tribulations of playing one of theatre’s most iconic roles.

But there’s more to Joe than sandals and high notes — we chat about his past roles, from the fabulous Angel in Rent to the revolutionary Che in Evita. Oh, and did we mention he once swapped the stage for the classroom, living in Sweden as an English teacher? The man contains multitudes.

It’s a fun, honest, and gloriously theatrical catch-up with a performer who’s been there, done that, and probably got the crucifix-shaped bruises to prove it.

*Fresh Outta the Theatre: Les Misérables Like You've NEVER Seen It*  

In this bonus episode of Stagestruck, we grab the mics *literally* straight outta the theatre and head to the car to give our honest, unfiltered review of the world premiere of *Les Misérables* by Laos. No scripts, no filters — just raw reactions, fresh opinions, and maybe a little bit of theatre shock.  

Did this revolutionary classic leave us dreaming a dream… or questioning everything? We break down the staging, performances, surprises (good and bad), and whether this bold new production hits the high notes — or misses the mark.  

If you love theatre, bold opinions, and the occasional car-park confession — this one's for you.

Ever wondered what it’s like to betray Jesus 3 nights a week? In this episode of Stagestruck, Chris Williams spills the (holy) tea on playing Judas in Jesus Christ Superstar for the past four months. From screaming high notes to existential crises (onstage and off), Chris dishes on the vocal workouts, dramatic meltdowns, and surprising joys of living in Judas’s tortured sandals. It’s part confessional, part comedy, and 100% theatre kid gold. If you’ve got Heaven on Your Mind and a soft spot for killer riffs and biblical drama—this one’s for you.

In this week’s episode, *From Tribute Tunes to Vinyl Vibes: Sarah & Mike Spill the Stage Tea*, we’re diving deep into the dazzling world of amateur theatre with two absolute legends—Sarah, our brilliant choreographer, and Mike, our musical maestro from *Jesus Christ Superstar*. Expect plenty of musical nostalgia as we chat about past productions, Sarah’s days in a tribute band, and Mike’s epic collection of 7-inch LPs.

We play all the usual games (yes, Todd’s chaos returns!), tackle the all-important *Desert Island Musicals*, and laugh our way through stories that only seasoned Am-Dram pros like Sarah and Mike could tell. With decades of combined experience, their passion and knowledge light up every moment of this backstage bonanza.

So grab a cuppa, hit play, and get ready for a toe-tapping, laugh-out-loud episode that celebrates everything we love about the stage—and the stars behind it.

🎭 Master of Mischief: Jason Weightman Brings Thénardier to Life in Les Misérables | Let The People Sing

Get ready for a riot of laughter, theatrical tales, and a dash of showbiz sparkle! In this special episode, we sit down with the brilliantly mischievous Jason Weightman—who's taking on the iconic role of Thénardier in the World Am-Dram Premiere of Les Misérables. Jason shares his journey through the world of amateur dramatics, spills behind-the-scenes secrets, and dishes out hilarious anecdotes from one of the biggest casts ever assembled.

Whether you're a theatre lover or just here for the jazz hands, this episode promises a front-row seat to the magic, mayhem, and sheer passion of the stage. Don’t miss it—the curtain rises next week! 🎙️✨