During February, the Siren Theatre Company presented Kate Gaul's bewitching production of The End of Winter - a performance essay by Noelle Janaczewska, at the Stables Theatre. The production featured actor Jane Phegan.

This episode of STAGES will chronicle the evolution of the production. STAGES followed the personnel - performer, director, designers, playwright - over a 4 week period, checking in occasionally to ascertain the contribution of each to the production process and how they navigate the construction of theatre.

To the uninitiated, it is a fascinating process as disparate parts collaborate under the guidance of director to create the magic of live performance. The deft conjuring of illusion and the seductive pull of storytelling, transport us to other worlds, and enlighten us through evocative text and passionate craft.

STAGES approached Kate Gaul from the Siren Theatre Company as rehearsals were about commence, giving the podcast access to a show's evolution. The company she had assembled combined the team who had previously presented Janaczewska's Good with Maps (a production that toured extensively), and keen creatives, early in their careers as theatre makers.

Through the episode you'll be privy to my conversations with Director Kate Gaul, Actor Jane Phegan, Composers/Sound Designers Nate Edmondson & Kaitlyn Crocker, Lighting Designer Becky Russell and playwright Noelle Janaczewska.

The End of Winter is a new work for the stage that speaks to our current climate crisis. Written in the wake of the devastation of the 2019 bushfires, it asks: What is happening to Winter?

The STAGES podcast is available to access and subscribe from Whooshkaa, Spotify and Apple podcasts. Or from wherever you access your favourite podcasts. A conversation with creatives about craft and career. Recipient of Best New Podcast at 2019 Australian Podcast Awards. Follow socials on instagram (stagespodcast) and facebook (Stages).

www.stagespodcast.com.au