Curve in Conversation

Happy new year! 

For the first full episode of Curve In Conversation of 2025, our host Martin Ballard explores some of the exciting shows arriving in Leicester over the next couple of months. 

Kicking things off with an insight into George Orwell’s chilling and timeless classic ANIMAL FARM, actor Sam Black delves into his character of Boxer and the strong themes of power and revolution which run throughout the production. 

Then be transported to the world of Shakespearean Verona as & JULIET considers what would’ve happened if Juliet ditched her famous ending? Taking on the role of Anne Hathaway in this pop anthem filled musical, Lara Denning shares why this production is perfect for everyone and what it’s like working with her famous co-stars. 

Rollin’ into Curve this March to kick off its first ever UK and Ireland tour, West End mega-hit TINA – The Tina Turner Musical explores the life of one of the most iconic performers in history. Elle Ma-Kinga N’Zuzi takes on the role of Tina Turner in this fierce production which is set to the pulse-pounding soundtrack of Turner’s iconic hits. Hear all about her excitement for taking on the role in this month’s episode of Curve In Conversation.

Bringing in the new year with & JULIET, ANIMAL FARM and TINA - The Tina Turner Musical

Things are about to get kooky and spooky at Curve as THE ADDAMS FAMILY takes over our stage this summer. In this episode of Curve in Conversation, fan favourite Wednesday Addams aka Lauren Jones makes her triumphant return to Leicester! 

Lauren talks all about her journey into the world of theatre, ranging from her first experience on the stage to her adventures as part of Curve’s Community Company. Hear all about this local star and what it’s like to be taking on this iconic role. 

Also in this episode, hear from the students of Leicester taking part in Speak Up. This secondary school programme in collaboration with the National Theatre sees young people working with local artists and teachers on creative projects.  

Lastly, JOSEPH AND HIS AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT will bring a rainbow of colour and song to Curve. Christina Bianco of the cast talks all about this renowned production and why it’s one you can’t miss.

THE ADDAMS FAMILY's Lauren Jones, a celebration of Speak Up and Christina Bianco of JOSEPH

With the summer holidays in full swing, host Martin Ballard chats with Curve’s Schools & Community Partnerships Manager, Lorrine Douglas, about the exciting line-up of summer workshops for young people this August. From Dance and Musical Theatre to Play in a Day, Lorrine shares what participants can expect from these fun, hands-on sessions designed to spark creativity and confidence. 

We’re also joined by Scott Graham, Artistic Director of the acclaimed theatre company Frantic Assembly, as they celebrate 30 years of groundbreaking work with their latest production, LOST ATOMS. Co-produced by Curve, Mayflower Southampton, and Lyric Hammersmith Theatre, this new piece explores how memory shapes our understanding of love and questions what truly defines a “successful” relationship. Scott reflects on Frantic Assembly’s legacy and gives us a glimpse into what audiences can expect from this powerful new show. 

Finally, Curve’s Associate Director Cara Nolan offers insight into her approach to the upcoming Made at Curve production of WHO’S AFRAID OF VIRGINIA WOOLF?. She shares fascinating details about playwright Edward Albee and the unexpected inspiration behind the story, explaining why this iconic drama is a must-see.

30 years of Frantic Assembly, WHO'S AFRAID OF VIRGINIA WOOLF? and Curve's summer workshops

With autumn in full swing, our host Martin Ballard checks in with MATILDA’s ballroom loving mother Mrs Wormwood, aka. Rebecca Thornhill. This smash hit Royal Shakespeare Company production prepares to open right here in Leicester next month, and Rebecca sheds light on why the show has been such a fan favourite. 

We’ll soon be welcoming an iconic showbiz pair to our Studio stage, as NOEL & GERTIE prepares to introduce audiences to a world of laughter, music and showbiz charm. Gary Tushaw will take on the role of Noël Coward, and he shares why his character’s friendship with Gertrude Lawrence became so admired. 

Our fantastic runners are preparing to take part in the Run Leicester Half Marathon and 10km as part of the Curve Run Challenge. By taking part, our representatives will raise money to help support Curve's mission to ensure all young people, regardless of their background or financial circumstances, can access, enjoy and shape the future of theatre. Martin speaks to Laura Kearsley of Nelsons all about why she has volunteered to run for Team Curve.  

Also in this episode, hear more from Curve's Senior Lighting Technician and Curve Young & Community Company (CYCC) Tech group leader, Nathan Clamp, who tells us more about inspiring the next generation of theatre technicians.

Curve in Conversation | "giving everybody the chance to experience theatre really matters"

In this month’s episode of Curve in Conversation, we blast off into the extra-terrestrial world of ALIENS LOVE PANTA CLAUS as we’re joined by Jude Taylor, the show’s Music and Lyrics creator. Jude shares the creative process for composing music for children’s theatre and gives a sneak peek into the exciting workshop on Tuesday 9 December where you can have give it a try yourself! 
 
Here at Curve, we work hard to ensure the magic of live theatre is accessible for all. To shine a light on the range of performances we offer, Audiences and Access Coordinator Lisa Brain joins us to talk about upcoming access performances, including British Sign Language interpreted, Relaxed, Dementia Friendly and more. 

To wrap things up, host Martin Ballard chats with comedy duo Jonty Stephens and Ian Ashpitel – better known as ERIC & ERN! Discover how their tribute to the legendary Morecambe and Wise began with impromptu impressions at a golf club and grew into a full-scale production, exclusively at Curve this January. Marking the 100th birthdays of the icons, expect all your favourite sketches and plenty of laughs.

The music of ALIENS LOVE PANTA CLAUS, access at Curve, and classic sketches with ERIC & ERN

Curve is alive with THE SOUND OF MUSIC! 

With rehearsals for our Made at Curve Christmas production of THE SOUND OF MUSIC well underway, our host Martin Ballard made a visit to catch up with some of the cast and creatives. 

Hear from our returning leads David Seadon-Young and Molly Lynch about how this iconic musical is still so relevant today and how excited they are to spend another festive season in Leicester. 

Also joining Martin on his trip to Salzburg (aka. the rehearsal room) are cast members Aviva Tulley, Minal Patel, Mark Peachy and Choreographer Ebony Molina. 

Do not miss your chance to get this exclusive look behind-the-scenes at Curve!

In Rehearsals with THE SOUND OF MUSIC company

A collection of voices from The Party Somewhere Else takeover group speak about championing female-led projects and giving everyone a great night out.

As part of Curve's Inside Out Festival 2018, this discussion also features performers Michelle Vacciana and Louise White who are presnting work during the takeover.

Inside Out - The Party Somewhere Else

Curve is a spectacular state-of-the-art theatre based in the heart of Leicester’s vibrant Cultural Quarter.

Find out what happens on and off-stage at Curve, one of the UK’s leading producing theatres, in the Curve in Conversation podcast.

Bringing in the new year with & JULIET, ANIMAL FARM and TINA - The Tina Turner Musical

Curve Theatre, Leicester

Related tracks