Five Minute Call is a podcast that takes a deep dive into the stories of the people that make theatre happen. Hosted by Claire Underwood and Oren Boder, we pull...
Charlie Stemp: from Monkey no.3 in Wicked to Bert in Mary Poppins, and Panto at the Palladium
This is Charlie Stemp.
Join us for a very special Christmas episode of The Five Minute Call! This week, we’re on location at the London Palladium’s Robin Hood rehearsals to chat with one of musical theatre’s brightest stars, Charlie Stemp. From his award-winning performance in Half a Sixpence to Broadway’s Hello, Dolly!, and now starring in Crazy For You and Robin Hood, Charlie shares his incredible journey, career-defining moments, and the lessons he’s learned along the way.
🎧 Chapters & Timestamps
00:00:00 – Welcome & Introduction
00:00:53 – Meet Charlie Stemp
00:01:20 – Charlie’s Theatre Beginnings
00:10:47 – Overcoming Challenges
00:21:50 – Sponsor: Vocalitea
00:22:50 – Life in Wicked and Touring
00:34:12 – Broadway Adventures
00:51:00 – Teaching & Giving Back
01:00:10 – Mary Poppins & Crazy For You
01:14:10 – All About Panto
01:20:25 – Five Minute Call Question
01:21:45 – Diary Question
01:23:25 – Outro
❤️ Support The Show
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And you can listen to more episodes on your favourite podcasting platform. Links at: https://linkin.bio/fiveminutecall
🤝 Connect With Us
Follow us on social media - search "Five Minute Call"
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https://www.tiktok.com/@yourfiveminutecall
Oren:
https://www.instagram.com/OrenBoder
https://www.orenboder.com
Claire:
https://www.instagram.com/showminds
https://www.showminds.co
Charlie:
https://www.instagram.com/charlie.stemp/
☕️ Vocalitea
This episode is kindly sponsored by Vocalitea, the secret to vocal clarity in a cup.
Vocalitea is more than just a beverage; it's a holistic approach to vocal care. Developed by award-winning voice experts and master tea blenders, each ingredient has been carefully selected to help you soothe and take care of your voice.
Get yours at: https://vocalitea.co.uk
🎗️Get Help
If you have been or are currently affected by any of the issues discussed in this episode, here are some resources you might find useful.
In the first instance, helplines:
Samaritans - 116 123 (24/7 phone service)
Shout - 85258 (all ages 24/7 texting service)
If you work in the theatre industry here are some organisations who can help you to find the right help:
https://www.applauseforthought.com
https://www.industryminds.co.uk
https://www.mind.org.uk
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1:24:26
Gillyanne Kayes: World renown voice teacher and author, and co-founder of Vocal Process
This is Gillyanne Kayes.
In this episode of The 5 Minute Call, we dive deep into the life and career of Dr. Gillyanne Kayes of Vocal Process. Gillyanne shares her journey from childhood singing to teaching, the challenges faced with a significant voice problem, and her current mission to inspire and influence vocal trainers. She talks about her transformative experiences at the East 15 acting school, her influential relationships with mentors, and the path that led her back to academia to pursue a PhD. Gillyanne also discusses the importance of collaboration, the impact of her early singing teachers, and her perspective on adapting to different singing genres. This is an inspiring conversation packed with insights for anyone passionate about voice and performance.
00:00 Introduction to The 5 Minute Call Podcast
00:54 Gillyanne Kayes' Early Influences and Childhood
04:35 Musical Training and Early Career
09:44 University Years and Challenges
14:12 Transition to Teaching and Methodology
30:45 Voice Problems and Personal Struggles
32:03 A Struggle with Vocal Issues
33:20 The Turning Point: A Concert Gone Wrong
33:56 Coping with Shame and Seeking Help
36:15 The Journey to Understanding Vocal Mechanics
40:27 Discovering Jo Estill and Vocal Anatomy
44:29 Pursuing a PhD and Overcoming Challenges
47:52 Embracing Mistakes and Continuous Learning
50:51 The Importance of Collaboration and Sharing Knowledge
53:20 Exploring Comfort Zones in Singing
58:41 Final Thoughts and Reflections
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FOLLOW ►
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Oren:
https://www.instagram.com/OrenBoder
https://www.linkedin.com/in/orenboder
Claire:
https://www.instagram.com/showminds
https://www.showminds.co
Gillyanne:
https://www.instagram.com/vocalprocess
LISTEN ►
Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/8fb3a694-7799-4062-8607-16a120d5db12/five-minute-call
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2xNC5y4sno1FSsTp8bjyd3
----
If you have been or are currently affected by any of the issues discussed in this episode, here are some resources you might find useful.
In the first instance, helplines:
Samaritans - 116 123 (24/7 phone service)
Shout - 85258 (all ages 24/7 texting service)
Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) - 0800 585858 (5pm - midnight)
Papyrus HOPELINEUK - 0800 068 4141 (for under 35 year olds)
If you work in the theatre industry here are some organisations who can help you to find the right help:
https://www.applauseforthought.com
https://www.industryminds.co.uk
https://www.bapam.org
https://www.helpmusicians.org.uk
https://www.artsandminds.org.uk
https://www.artsminds.co.uk
https://www.wellbeinginthearts.org.uk
https://www.mind.org.uk
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1:02:11
Mark Hedges: on Skates in Starlight Express to Resident Director at Phantom, and Everything In-Between
This is Mark Hedges.
Mark shares his captivating journey from school shows to playing major roles in productions like 'Les Misérables' and 'Starlight Express,' to becoming a resident director for iconic shows like 'The Bodyguard,' 'Mary Poppins,' and 'Phantom of the Opera.' He offers a deep dive into his transition from performing to directing, the challenges and rewards of a resident director's role, and his unique perspective on auditions. Mark also talks about the importance of collaboration, creativity, and maintaining calm in high-pressure situations. Don't miss this insightful and inspiring story of a life dedicated to theatre.
00:00 Introduction to the Podcast
00:48 Mark Hedges' Early Theatre Journey
01:43 First Big Break: Starlight Express
05:09 Life in the West End
08:00 Mentorship and Growth
13:09 Unexpected Opportunities
22:53 Transition to Resident Director
29:47 Role of a Resident Director
32:34 Balancing Multiple Roles in Production
33:18 Staying Calm Under Pressure
33:53 Connecting with People
35:21 Learning from Mentors
36:40 Dealing with Stress
38:08 The Importance of Collaboration
39:55 Maintaining Creativity in Repetitive Roles
42:57 The Role of a Resident Director
54:38 Navigating Auditions
57:50 The Casting Process
01:02:49 Final Thoughts and Reflections
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1:06:40
Raffaella Covino: From In The Heights, to Rent, to Applause For Thought
This is Raffaella Covino.
Join us for an inspiring conversation with Raffaella Covino, an esteemed performer who has appeared in shows like In the Heights, Rent, Hairspray, and On the Town. Raffaella shares her powerful journey of dealing with mental health challenges while working in the theatre industry, which ultimately led her to establish the mental health organisation, Applause for Thought. Learn about her early passion for the arts, navigating the pressures of performing, and the importance of advocating for mental health support. You won't want to miss this touching and motivational episode.
00:00 Introduction to Raffaella Covino's Journey
01:40 Early Life and Passion for Performing Arts
03:41 Training and Early Career Challenges
08:00 Breakthrough and Touring Experiences
11:55 Navigating Mental Health and Career
26:26 The Wild Years: Swing and Dance Captain
38:39 Breaking Point: A Moment of Realization
40:08 The Struggle with Self-Worth and Anxiety
44:47 Seeking Help and Taking a Break
47:18 A Year of Self-Discovery
57:45 Returning to the Stage
01:03:06 Founding Applause for Thought
01:09:03 The Journey Continues: Mental Health Advocacy
01:13:47 Final Reflections and Advice
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FOLLOW ►
https://www.instagram.com/FiveMinuteCall
Oren:
https://www.instagram.com/OrenBoder
https://www.linkedin.com/in/orenboder
Claire:
https://www.instagram.com/showmindshttps://www.showminds.co
Raff:https://www.instagram.com/raffcovinoApplause For Thought:https://www.instagram.com/ApplauseForThought
LISTEN ►
Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/8fb3a694-7799-4062-8607-16a120d5db12/five-minute-call
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2xNC5y4sno1FSsTp8bjyd3
----
If you have been or are currently affected by any of the issues discussed in this episode, here are some resources you might find useful.
In the first instance, helplines:
Samaritans - 116 123 (24/7 phone service)
Shout - 85258 (all ages 24/7 texting service)
Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) - 0800 585858 (5pm - midnight)
Papyrus HOPELINEUK - 0800 068 4141 (for under 35 year olds)
If you work in the theatre industry here are some organisations who can help you to find the right help:
BAPAM (British Association of Performing Arts Medicine) 020 7404 5888
Music Minds Matter UK 0808 802 8008
https://www.applauseforthought.com
https://www.industryminds.co.uk
https://www.bapam.org
https://www.helpmusicians.org.uk
https://www.artsandminds.org.uk
https://www.artsminds.co.uk
https://www.wellbeinginthearts.org.uk
https://www.mind.org.uk
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1:15:30
Zachary James: Breaking Boundaries in Opera and Musical Theatre
This is Zachary James. We dive deep into the story of Zachary James, the acclaimed performer currently appearing as Hades in the West End's Hadestown. Zachary opens up about his journey from a shy kid in Florida to a celebrated musical theatre and opera star. He shares insights into his high school days, his Broadway debut, and his experiences working across different genres. Learn about his daily routines, the challenges he faced, and the importance of collaboration and creativity. Plus, hear about his unique audition experiences and the special moments that have shaped his remarkable career. Don't miss this in-depth and inspiring conversation with Zachary James!00:00 - Trailer01:05 - Introduction to Zachary James01:40 - Zachary's Early Theatre Journey10:53 - Discovering His Voice16:51 - Broadway Beginnings21:24 - Producing and Performing35:04 - Personal Growth and Sobriety37:44 - Balancing Stage Work and Lifestyle38:53 - Broadway World Recognition39:45 - Navigating Different Performance Genres48:54 - The Art of Auditioning52:12 - Pandemic Adaptations and New Opportunities01:02:25 - Five Minute Call Routine
01:04:26 - Diary Question01:05:51 - Disclaimers----
FOLLOW ►
https://www.instagram.com/FiveMinuteCall
Oren:
https://www.instagram.com/OrenBoder
https://www.linkedin.com/in/orenboder
Claire:
https://www.instagram.com/showminds
Zachary: https://www.instagram.com/theofficialzacharyjames
LISTEN ►
Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/8fb3a694-7799-4062-8607-16a120d5db12/five-minute-call
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2xNC5y4sno1FSsTp8bjyd3
----
If you have been or are currently affected by any of the issues discussed in this episode, here are some resources you might find useful.
In the first instance, helplines:
Samaritans - 116 123 (24/7 phone service)
Shout - 85258 (all ages 24/7 texting service)
Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM) - 0800 585858 (5pm - midnight)
Papyrus HOPELINEUK - 0800 068 4141 (for under 35 year olds)
If you work in the theatre industry here are some organisations who can help you to find the right help:
BAPAM (British Association of Performing Arts Medicine) 020 7404 5888
Music Minds Matter UK 0808 802 8008
https://www.applauseforthought.com
https://www.industryminds.co.uk
https://www.bapam.org
https://www.helpmusicians.org.uk
https://www.artsandminds.org.uk
https://www.artsminds.co.uk
https://www.wellbeinginthearts.org.uk
https://www.mind.org.uk
Five Minute Call is a podcast that takes a deep dive into the stories of the people that make theatre happen. Hosted by Claire Underwood and Oren Boder, we pull back the curtain to explore their truths, life lessons, inspiring narratives, and hard-earned wisdom from our guests. Enjoy a unique peek behind the glitz and glamour of the stage, screen, and studio as we sit down with some of the most influential figures in the arts world - from groundbreaking performers and visionary directors, to astute casting agents, crew, and everyone in between.