Stage Door Podcast

Stage Door Podcast

A podcast talking all things theatre from auditioning to onstage horror stories with special guest appearances from some of Australia's leading creators. Conveniently hosted by two over caffeinated thespians, we can't wait to share our love of theatre with you all. If you have any stories or any feedback you can contact us vie our instagram: ps.stagedoorpod or vie email: ps.stagedoor.podcast@gmail.com

Episodes

June 3, 2025 22 mins
What actually makes you stand out in an audition room? In part two of our chat with Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown director Alexander Berlage and choreographer Chiara Assetta, dive into the heart of casting, what they look for, what makes an audition room come alive, and how young performers can bring their boldest selves into the space. We also zoom out to talk about what it really takes to build a show from the gro...
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In Part 1 of our two-part deep dive into Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown, we chat with director Alexander Berlage and choreographer Chiara Assetta about the bold creative choices behind this chaotic, heartfelt and surreal musical. Alex shares what initially drew him to the show and how he’s crafted a cohesive vision, while Chiara unpacks her story-first approach to choreography and how she adapted it for the intimacy of T...
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In this episode, we’re joined by the phenomenal Alinta Chidzey—star of Moulin Rouge, Chicago, West Side Story, and so much more. We dive into the realities behind the sparkle: handling rejection, surviving the audition grind, and carving out a sustainable, fulfilling career in the arts. Whether you’re chasing your first big break or navigating longevity in the industry, Alinta brings honesty, warmth, and some seriously valuable adv...
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In part two of our conversation with director Brittanie Shipway and choreographer Leah Howard, we dive deep into the heart of Once On This Island. From the show’s powerful themes of love and sacrifice, to honouring its rich legacy while creating something uniquely their own—Brittanie and Leah share the creative choices shaping this production. Plus, we explore the challenges (and joys!) of staging a dynamic, movement-filled show i...
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Once On This Island: Meet the Cast + Inside the Audition Room (Part 1) We’re back with a bang—and an exclusive! In part one of our two-part chat with director Brittanie Shipway and choreographer Leah Howard, we’re thrilled to officially announce the full cast of ‘Once On This Island’. From how they approached casting this reimagined revival to the care and intention behind creating a safe, empowering audition space, Brittanie and ...
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From Drama School to Dice Rolls: William Kasper on Acting, Screen & New Adventures. In part two of our chat with Dungeon Master extraordinaire (and friend of the pod!) William Kasper, we step beyond The Twenty-Sided Tavern and into the world of making it as an actor. From the structure of drama school to the unpredictability of the industry, Will shares what’s helped him navigate auditions, screen acting, and big career choices. P...
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March 13, 2025 7 mins
In this weeks bedtime story we have Dungeons & Dragons: The Twenty-Sided Tavern's William Kasper! Join us as we hear about some of Williams most chaotic onstage stories. Dungeons & Dragons: The Twenty-Sided Tavern is now playing at the Sydney Opera House! Don’t miss out—get your tickets before the campaign ends. 🎧 Follow the podcast on Instagram @stagedoorpod, and don’t forget to leave a rating and review! Share your episode id...
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What happens when theatre meets tabletop chaos? In part one of our chat with Dungeon Master extraordinaire (and friend of the pod!) William Kasper, we roll the dice on Dungeons & Dragons: The Twenty-Sided Tavern. From the art of controlled chaos to the wildest audience-driven moments, Will takes us behind the scenes of this immersive, ever-changing adventure. Plus, how do you rehearse for a show where anything can happen? Grab y...
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What keeps an actor in the game? In part two of our chat with Otis Dhanji, we go beyond Peter and the Starcatcher and dive into the highs, the hurdles, and the “this is why I do this” moments of his career. From handling the pressure of big projects at a young age to navigating rejection and jumping between stage, film, and TV—Otis shares what he's learned about making it (and staying) in the industry. Missed part one? Catch up no...
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February 14, 2025 6 mins
Welcome to our new bonus episodes with bedtime stories from some of your favourite creatives. This week Otis Dhanji lets us in on his worst stage mishap whilst playing Peter in the current touring production of Peter and The Starcatcher! Stay tuned for part two, where we’ll explore more of Otis’s career and experiences in the industry! 🔗 Don’t miss Peter and the Starcatcher—tickets and details at https://peterandthestarcatcher....
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How did Peter Pan learn to fly? In the first of our two-part conversation with Otis Dhanji, we dive into his journey with Peter and the Starcatcher. From stepping into the rehearsal room to keeping the show’s magic alive onstage, Otis shares how he approached this imaginative world, the challenges and joys of working with puppetry, and the surprising lessons he’s learned about himself as a performer. Stay tuned for part two, where...
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What makes A Christmas Carol such a timeless holiday classic? In this episode, Eliza chats with Aisha Aidara, current cast member of the Melbourne production, about stepping back into the role of Little Fan, the joy of festive cast traditions, and managing the whirlwind of 8-show weeks. They also explore why this beloved tale continues to resonate with audiences year after year. Get ready for a heartwarming behind-the-scenes look a...
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What’s it really like to rule the stage in Six the Musical? In this episode, Tori and Eliza chat with two queens, Chelsea Dawson and Kimberley Hodgson, about their reigns as Howard and Aragon. Chelsea shares the experience of stepping back into her role, while Kim reflects on how Aragon feels like home. Together, they dive into what makes Six such a phenomenon, the rituals that get them ready to slay their performances, and so much...
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In our season 5 finale deep dive, we’re pulling back the curtain on musical theatre’s best-kept secrets! Joined by fan-favorite guest Gareth Isaac, Eliza, Tori, and Gareth each champion an underrated musical: the dark drama of Jekyll and Hyde, the cult-following of Groundhog Day, and the hauntingly beautiful Islander. What makes a musical underrated, and why aren’t more people talking about these hidden gems? 🎧 Follow the podcast...
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Curious about navigating the theatre world as a neurodivergent performer? In this episode, Eliza chats with Daniel R. Nixon about playing Christopher in The Curious Incident, creating inclusive spaces in theatre, and advice for neurodivergent performers. Daniel also talks about returning to his role in Drizzle Boy with Queensland Theatre and what he’s most excited about for the regional tour. Packed with insight and inspiration, th...
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Ever wonder what it takes to start your own theatre company? Tori and Eliza chat with Meg and Sarah, the creatives behind Penpals and founders of Sydney’s The Little Big Theatre Co. They dive into the inspiration for their company, the creation of Penpals, and share advice for those looking to produce original works. Packed with insights and tips, this episode is a must-listen! 🔗 Make sure to stay up to date with Little Big Theat...
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Ever wonder what it's like to nail your first professional audition straight out of uni? In this episode, Tori and Eliza chat with Sophie Montague, who did just that, landing the role of Sister Mary Robert in the Australian tour of Sister Act! They spill on belting their tits off on Sunrise, working alongside stars like Casey Donovan, and even share advice they'd give their younger self. Don't miss this fun, insider-packed episode ...
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August 26, 2024 61 mins
Ever wonder what it's like to step back into a beloved role? Tori and Eliza catch up with Ryan Gonzales as they return to Washington Heights as Usnavi, stepping back into a role that’s both a challenge and a source of deep fulfilment. They also dive into their iconic run in Moulin Rouge, where they slayed in Vogue, and discuss the casting shifts happening in Australia. Plus, get the scoop on their upcoming trip to Neverland with th...
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August 13, 2024 42 mins
This week Tori and Eliza chat with Rose McClelland and Alexander Andrews, the creative force behind Sydney's beloved independent theatre company, Little Triangle. They discuss the company’s origins, the grind of building indie theatre, and their upcoming show, 'A Gay Escapade', a vibrant musical celebration of the LGBTQIA+ experience. Tune in for a lively and inspiring conversation about passion, creativity, and bringing new storie...
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July 29, 2024 39 mins
In this weeks episode Tori and Eliza are joined by their favourite partner in crime, Gareth Isaac, for an exploration of cult classic musicals. Each team member takes on a different favourite—Rocky Horror, Carrie, and Six—to discuss what makes a musical a cult classic, their devoted followings, and much more. Tune in for a fun and insightful journey into the world of these beloved and quirky shows! 🎧 Follow the podcast on Instagra...
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