MusicalTalk - The UK's Independent Musical Theatre Podcast

The famous novelist, Jane Austen, once wrote "Without music, life would be a blank to me" so to rectify that problem join MusicalTalk as Thos chats to acclaimed composer, Thomas F. Arnold, about a brand new musical version of that global evergreeen, Sense and Sensibility.  With songs from the show and an delightful - and possibly controversial - discussion on the applicability (or not) of Sondheim's tenet that content dictates form, this episode will surely make great sense and warm your sensibilities.  Oh, how Jane will be pleased!

Mike joins composer/lyricist/performer Hayley Canham to discuss her new show dramatizing and celebrating the life of ancient Greek poet Sappho — "the greatest songwriter we've never heard".

In this episode of MusicalTalk, we head into the world of family theatre and Disney Parks comedy!
First up, we review ZOG, the stage adaptation of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler's much-loved story, currently touring across the UK. We look at how the production brings the beloved dragon, Princess Pearl and Gadabout the Great to life on stage and ask whether it lives up to the magic of the original.
Then we head to the theme parks for RopeDrop, a comedy show all about the wonderfully obsessive world of Disney Parks! From the rides and attractions to the fans and the peculiarities of a Disney holiday, we find out whether this show manages to capture the humour of the theme park experience.  We also hear from the show's creators and performers - Jordan Li Smith and Ayesha Patel.  
Two very different shows, one episode and plenty to talk about!

Time again to join Mike, Alison and Thos as they enjoy a bit of in-depth analysis of some of the wonderful new musicals you could have seen at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in 2026.  In this week's Fringe round-up episode, they look at Girlhood in the Bathroom and Apparently Ugly: A Stepsister's Story.  Do we live in a world of Cinderella-style happy endings and Prince Charmings, or is there more going on?  Find out in this thoughtful conversation - and for good measure hear the world's most formal pick up line.

Fancy some reviews of some of the best or most interesting shows at this year's Edinburgh Festival Fringe? Yes! You do? Well, you've come to the right place as MusicalTalk continues its celebrated coverage of the Fringe's musical theatre offerings. This week, Thos joins Mike and Alison to discuss three eye catching new musicals - A Perfect Match, Mother Earth and the Shocking Truth About Flat Earth.  Add insights, laughter and a song as well and you'll find it's an elemental pleasure!