This episode of Yarn About You features Ivan King — Australian entertainment legend, veteran performer and founder of Perth’s Museum of Performing Arts.

Ivan and I sat down for a chat to share decades of theatre stories and backstage memories from his time in the entertainment industry. We discuss a lifetime of memories as well as his incredible dedication and work rescuing and preserving the region’s theatrical history.

Tune in for personal anecdotes, rare memorabilia tales, and a love letter to Western Australia’s performing arts heritage.

I hope you enjoy our yarn... Clay

Podcast recorded at His Majesty's Theatre in Perth, Western Australia, on Wednesday 8th January 2025

In this episode of Yarn About You, join Clay as he connects with his long-time friend and multi-talented performer, Vivienne Garrett.

From their initial meeting in 1991 to a recent visit in the picturesque Margaret River, Clay and Vivienne embark on an engaging conversation that covers her history, extraordinary career, and her deep-seated passion for self-exploration.

Vivienne's journey is as diverse as it is inspiring. With accomplishments spanning voiceover artistry, theatre directing, voice coaching, and teaching, she has also made her mark as a devoted yoga instructor. 

Follow Vivienne's pathways through the highs and lows of the acting world, her unforgettable experiences in India, and her steadfast dedication to living an authentic and creative life.

Listen in as they reflect on life, creativity, and the world around us with laughter and sincerity.

Andrew Mercado is an Australian Television Historian, documentarian, educator, writer, author, presenter, producer, commentator, podcaster, emcee, trivia host and former cinema owner.

Andrew Mercado has been a fixture in the Australian Entertainment industry for over 30 years featuring in regular segments on TV shows, radio, podcasts, blogs, Newspapers and magazines.

He is one of the most passionate supporters of television and the people who make it happen.

Andrew is also a genuinely lovely person and I am very happy to call him my friend. 

I hope you enjoy our yarn!

In this episode of Yarn About You, I welcome the multi-talented Rick Ireland.

Rick, an actor, emcee, educator, and counsellor, shares his incredible journey from his early life in Toowoomba, Queensland, to his diverse career in the entertainment industry. He recounts his experiences working on iconic Australian TV shows, like Prisoner, his deep connections with beloved actors like the late Maxine Klibingaitis, and his transformative spiritual and emotional healing journey.

Rick opens up about his family's influence, his struggles with identity and health, and how he found solace in meditation and counselling. This episode is a touching tribute to resilience, family, friendship, and the power of connection and storytelling. We learn about Rick's remarkable life and the indelible impact he's made on those around him.

I hope you enjoy our yarn.

Karen Petersen is a living legend of Australian theatre, film and television.

She is a NSW Central Coast resident who is an all round creative. She is a talented writer, singer and historian who loves the nostalgia of yester-year.

I have known Karen for a number of years and am very proud to call her my friend.

I hope you enjoy our yarn! Clay

Deb Mayes is a devoted photographer and entertainment reporter who has followed the careers of national and international artists of the stage and screen for as long as she can remember.

She is a passionate supporter of local up and coming artists and she loves nothing more than to be in an audience with her camera. 

I am very proud to call Deb my friend and I hope you enjoy our yarn!

August 2022

Today’s guest is Annie Wright.

Today’s guest is, Order of Australia recipient, Liz Mullinar.

For more information on Liz Mullinar’s work or to purchase her books, visit www.healforlife.com.au   

Maxine Klibingaitis is an absolute legend in Australian television with credits in shows such as: 

• Neighbours (playing Paul Robinson’s first wife)

She is fondly remembered as BOBBIE MITCHELL in the iconic TV show PRISONER, where she had a 2 year run.

I was devastated when Maxine suddenly and unexpectedly passed away in April 2023. We had spoken to her the day before and she had plans for the future. This podcast was so special when we recorded it (less than a year earlier), but now it is absolutely priceless.

Clay

*A special THANK YOU to Rick Ireland for connecting Maxine and I years ago. Rick is a guest on episode 009 and we discuss the beautiful Maxine and the effect her life and passing has on us.

Mr Phillip Bligh is a passionate advocate for connecting people in our community.