Chai with Rai

On today’s episode, I’m joined by writer Bethany Henry Gemmell for a special end-of-year conversation. It felt like the perfect way to close out the final episode of 2026—thoughtful, generous, and deeply inspiring. This marks Bethany’s second time on the podcast (or, as I like to call it, the Chai Room), and it was such a joy to reconnect. In this episode, we dive deep into the dramaturgical process, with Bethany leading the conversation around working as dramaturg on the second audio series of Chai with Rai, An Ode: Reframing the Classics, now streaming on Patreon. We also explore the “grass is greener” mindset, Bethany’s upcoming projects—including a new play and a new novel—and then shares valuable advice for emerging playwrights, freelance creatives, and dramaturgs. You’ll also hear a snippet from Catherine, the short story Bethany wrote for the very first storytelling series, Symphonies of Beaded Threads.  Bethany's bio:  Bethany (they/he) is a Northern playwright. They explore themes exploring family, our relationship to media, and humanity's capability to be good and evil. Examples include being a co-writer for Royal Court Theatre's Listen Local project in 2019, 'WOLF' at Theatre503 in 2023, and 'well, you could be a guy (non-binary edition)' for Baron Court Theatre's Queering the Canon Festival in 2023. Their most recent project was 'The Trial of Thomas Greene' at Hope Mill Theatre for Qweerdog Shorts/Hope 200 Festival in 2025. They were selected for Young Vic's inaugural 2022/23 Creators Program, Soho Theatre's 2023/24 Writers' Lab, and for Nottingham Playhouse's Amplify Program in 2025. Their audio-duologue 'Catherine', dedicated to and involving their mum, is now featured in the Chai With Rai exhibition at the London LGBTQ+ Community Centre. They have provided dramaturgical support for community companies like Neurospace Theatre and Wild Forest Theatre from 2020 to 2023. Now, they're developing their dramaturgical skills by supporting artists for An Ode: Reframing the Classics. Topics Breakdown:  "Grass is always greener on the other side" mentality.  Starving artist vs life experience and the success metrics we place on ourselves.  Evolution of personal artistic storytelling.  Playwriting with and through ADHD playwriting.  Exploring time and thoughts as a playwright.  Dramaturgy process for An Ode: Reframing the Classics.  Reflecting on the Chai with Rai's Summer exhibition 20245 in London/  Theatre 503 Rapid Writers response to Stray Dogs by Theo Chester.  The Royal Court Theatre’s Listen Local Program.  Dramaturgy process / advice for emerging talent.  To Listen to Bethany's audio short story CLICK HERE.  To subscribe to Patreon and become a Patron/ supporter of Chai with Rai.  Social: Myself: https://www.instagram.com/chaiwithrai_/ & https://twitter.com/chaiwithrai_ & https://www.tiktok.com/@chaiwithrai Guest: https://www.instagram.com/hgemmellian/ & https://twitter.com/hengemmell  Links: Myself: https://www.raimuitfum.com/chaiwithraihomepage & https://linktr.ee/chaiwithrai_  Guest: https://creatorsprogram.youngvic.org/member/11946 Hope you all enjoyed it and Thank you for tuning in. To Subscribe, share, follow my work and everything else is listed above.

Now joining me today IN THE CHAI ROOM (should I keep calling it that?)  is my dear friend—dancer, choreographer, model, performer and now writer—Tarek Khwiss. This was Tarek’s second time on the podcast, and what a special episode it was. A lot of you often ask what it’s like having friends on the podcast, and this episode is truly the epitome of that. We have a deep conversation about dance culture in the UK, friendships within the industry, and kindness toward ourselves and others while navigating the creative world. Tarek and I also get into politics and activism—using our social platforms to speak out, and the balance (or imbalance) of doing so while managing a creative, freelance life. We discuss how this seeps into our work, the challenges it brings, and how it has shaped our personal viewpoints. We also talk about being Arab and queer, and dive into Tarek’s new business, Haus of Hurriyah, as well as queer spaces such as Hishek Bishek in London . Of course, we discuss Tarek’s story “Confessions” for An Ode: Reframing the Classics—which, by the way, you can stream in full now on Patreon. You’ll also hear a soundbite in this episode. Tarek's Bio: Hey, I'm Tarek Khwiss known globally for my fresh and fierce vision. Empowering the world through dance, encouraging all to be you, be free, be fabulous! Energetic, sassy & bold choreography, positively disrupting through the medium of dance Based in London, Tarek is a British Palestinian who believes in the power of dance to unite, elevate and help uplift brands through movement. Being a brand ambassador, their aim is to build partnerships with clients to create artistic visuals sharing the story at hand. Working in TV, Film, stage & online, Tarek is capable of adapting no matter the size of the project.  Tarek’s credits consist of  choreographing for Layla, the feature film directed and written by Amrou Al- Kadhi. Working with musicians such as Martin Almasri, Decker Park and Valerie Sibanda. As well featuring in commercials as a dancer & model for brands such as: Levis, 02, Spotify, Sky Atlantic, Hunter Boots and shows such as Sex Education,   to name a few. As a content creator Tarek is the ambassador of AKT and has collaborated with brands such as JBL, Dyson, Pattern Beauty, Dirtea, Dunellm, Asda and Tik Tok to name a few. Topics Breakdown: It’s Boiling – 5-Second Rule rapid round, Creating friendships and community as a dance teacher, Changes in dance class culture: student consumption and how Tarek’s relationship to teaching has evolved, The growth of social media posting culture, both as a consumer and a content creator, Conscious posting and the balance (or imbalance) of activism through creative work. Balancing a political voice with creative expression. New creative venture: Haus of Hurriyah How embracing identity has shifted Tarek’s perspective on his craft and the wider industry. Being queer and being Arab. The importance of the people you surround yourself with, while remaining open to giving and receiving kindness. Choreographing and movement directing for Leyla (feature film by Amrou Al-Kadhi): lessons learned and the experience of working on a large-scale queer Arab film. The writing process and creative thinking behind Tarek’s short “Confessions” for An Ode: Reframing the Classics. To listen to the short story, subscribe to Patreon and become a Patron/ supporter of Chai with Rai. Social Myself: https://www.instagram.com/chaiwithrai_  & https://twitter.com/chaiwithrai_  & https://www.tiktok.com/@chaiwithrai Guest: https://www.instagram.com/tarekkhwiss/ & https://www.tiktok.com/@tarekkhwiss?lang=en-GB Links Myself: https://www.raimuitfum.com/chaiwithraihomepage  & https://linktr.ee/chaiwithrai_   Guest: https://tarekkhwiss.com/   

Continuing on with introducing you to the writers behind the new Chai with Rai series An Ode: Reframing the Classics- welcoming to the Chai room Punya Rajput. She wrote a short story titled The Sabhā No Longer Stands which reimagines Draupadi, not as a divine heroine, but as a woman confronting the shame, jealousy, and emotional labor imposed on her by a heteropatriarchal world. Through a deeply affective conversation with Krishna, she lays bare the moral contradictions, expectations, and embodied violence present in society. Her body becomes a site of symbolic control, her desires policed, her identity fragmented. P.S- you can stream the story now on our Patreon channel HERE.  Speaking of this episode we definitely discuss mythology, Punya’s storytelling experience, she was in the midst of her masters- so discussing academia and creativity. The path and trajectory of an actor in India vs UK . So, I cannot wait for you to listen to this episode and just get some good ol nuggets. Punya's Bio: Punya is a freelance creative who believes in the power of stories—on stage, on screen, and on the page. A proud member and ambassador of the National Youth Theatre, she’s brought her love for performance to short films, ads, and creative spaces in both India and the UK. With a background in sociology and a master’s in education policy, her work weaves together research and creativity. Her dissertation explored drama-based pedagogy and how emotion, imagination, and connection shape how we learn about gender. She hopes to tell stories that spark something—joy, reflection, maybe even a little magic. Big feelings, big laughs, and a strong belief that everything’s better with a little chaos and a lot of Brooklyn Nine-Nine. Topics Breakdown:  Storytellers and Styles of writing that have shaped an understanding of text and building worlds as a storyteller.  Balancing surrealism, subtext and access as a storyteller.  Process as an actor. Working and process as a South Asian Actor. Working as an actor in India vs in the UK. Passion for storytelling and connection to mythology . The writing and audio story The Sabhā No Longer Stands for An Ode: Reframing the Classics . To listen to the short story, subscribe to Patreon and become a Patron/ supporter of Chai with Rai. Social Myself: https://www.instagram.com/chaiwithrai_  & https://twitter.com/chaiwithrai_  & https://www.tiktok.com/@chaiwithrai Guest: https://www.instagram.com/punya_rrajput/ & https://www.instagram.com/noirae00/ Links Myself: https://www.raimuitfum.com/chaiwithraihomepage  & https://linktr.ee/chaiwithrai_    

Welcoming into the Chai room- writer, dancer and actor Amar Bains.  Now this is going to be a very quick and intimate one, as Amar doesn't really do interviews. However, I used our friendship and some emotional coercion to beg and request him to be a guest. We discuss his world building as a dancer and now a writer. We get a sneak peak into his short story for Chai with Rai's audio storytelling series An Ode: Reframing the Classics titled Fire in my Room.  I hope ya enjoy and you can stream the full audio story on our Patreon Channel. Amar's Bio:  Amar Bains is a British born Artist of Panjabi heritage. Born in the West Midlands he moved to London to pursue the arts, to study Musical Theatre. After graduating he worked professionally as an actor for major brands featuring in adverts, short films and online campaigns and as a dancer for musicians featuring in videos for Ed sheeran, Kwabs and Priya Ragu to name a few. He has also worked on productions for Disney and Marvel and has danced at the Platinum Jubilee for Queen Elizabeth II. Amar's artistic expression also comes through other various forms, such as in his personal time he enjoys illustration and writing.   To listen to the short story, subscribe to Patreon and become a Patron/ supporter of Chai with Rai. Social Myself: https://www.instagram.com/chaiwithrai_  & https://twitter.com/chaiwithrai_  & https://www.tiktok.com/@chaiwithrai Guest: https://www.instagram.com/_amaramar/  Links Myself: https://www.raimuitfum.com/chaiwithraihomepage  & https://linktr.ee/chaiwithrai_    

Almost Three Years in the making and I am beyond excited to Welcome actor and writer Rupinder Kaur. This is going to be a bit of a long one as we had a lot to catch up on. Though this is the edited version and you can catch our 3 hour chat on our Patreon Channel (Unedited and Unfiltered). We get into our ideals of Romance and fantasy for writing, to discussing the viability of being a playwright and poet. We also discuss Rupinder's first published book "Rooh", her upcoming book in 2026 and acting. I cannot wait for you to hear this, giggle and see a behind the scenes insight into Rupinder.  You also get a soundbite of Rupinder's short audio story for An Ode: Reframing the Classics titled "What the Waves Remember: Amrit Kaur" Rupinder's Bio: Rupinder Kaur Waraich (she/her) is a multidisciplinary artist based in the West Midlands, whose work spans poetry, writing, and performance. Her artistic focus centres on feminine narratives and Panjabi heritage and language. Rupinder’s debut poetry collection, Rooh (2018), was published by Verve Poetry Press, and her forthcoming collection, Tigress with Wings, will be released by Seren Books in February 2026. Her short film The Two Artists, which she co-wrote and acted in, premiered at the UK Asian Film Festival. As a BBC New Creative, she wrote The Girls That Hide and Seek, a spoken word piece addressing gendered violence. Rupinder has taken part in artist residencies at JOYA: arte + ecología in Spain, Art House in the Netherlands, and Preet Nagar in Panjab. Her recent work blends poetry, dance, and film, as seen in her performance art films Finding Kali and The Search. Driven by curiosity and dedication, Rupinder continues to explore and create at the intersection of writing, film, and theatre. Topics Breakdown:  The Reality of self-producing your own work. Dream Date with an artist. Talking about partition with our family. From a Meta and Love Lens- How your relationship to the Pen and Writing has changed throughout the years? And if it has informed you anything about how you view the practice as a form? Gradual evolution from poetry into acting.  The experience of Poetry and Spoken word at events and how they have evolved in the last couple of years. Discussing her play and contribution to the Chai with Rai Audio Series An Ode: Reframing the Classics. The story inspired by two Punjabi princesses’ Indira Devi and Amrit Kaur - the former Maharani of Mandi and Princess of Kapurthala.  To listen to the short story, subscribe to Patreon and become a Patron/ supporter of Chai with Rai. Social Myself: https://www.instagram.com/chaiwithrai_  & https://twitter.com/chaiwithrai_  & https://www.tiktok.com/@chaiwithrai Guest: : https://www.instagram.com/rupinderkw/  Links Myself: https://www.raimuitfum.com/chaiwithraihomepage  & https://linktr.ee/chaiwithrai_   Guest: https://rupinderkw.com/ 

Welcoming BACK Bolly Illusion a.k.a Anthony Pius.  This was a wonderful conversation into the new Audio series produced by Chai with Rai An Ode: Reframing the Classics in which Anthony wrote a short story called The Sari Chronicles.  The storytelling series had two exhibition residencies in London over Summer of 2025 at Theatre Deli and the LGBTQ+ Centre at London Bankside. We also discuss outlook on artistry and how our experience can inform our practice as creatives, the expansion/ highlights of Bolly's work, future work and the cabaret/ drag space.  Bolly/ Anthony's bio:  Bolly-Illusion (Anthony Pius)  is a drag Artist who has been slaying the stage in the world of cabaret for over 4 years. They infuse Indian music and beats to showcase their Indian heritage, there’s no light bulb moves here but you’ll defo want to get up out of your seat when you see them twirling around in a 6-inch stiletto.  They have been seen dancing in Marvel’s Eternal, other accomplishments include being featured in Vogue Italia, I-Weigh and Gay Times. Venues they have been blessed to perform in are the Design Museum, Hackney Empire, V&A Museum and Roundhouse Theatre to name a few. Topics Breakdown:  Misconceived notions or perceptions about yourself that the cabaret and drag space has helped unlearn or inform.   Finding liberation and joy with fellow queer artists. Being optimistic around negativity.   Central Cee Obsession. Political Views and standpoints. Discussing writing the short story "The Sari Chronicles"  Favourite part of the job.  To listen to the short story, subscribe to Patreon and become a Patron/ supporter of Chai with Rai. Social Myself: https://www.instagram.com/chaiwithrai_  & https://twitter.com/chaiwithrai_  & https://www.tiktok.com/@chaiwithrai Guest: : https://www.instagram.com/bolly_illusion Links Myself: https://www.raimuitfum.com/chaiwithraihomepage  & https://linktr.ee/chaiwithrai_   Guest: https://linktr.ee/bolly_illusion?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio&fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQMMjU2MjgxMDQwNTU4AAGnEbCwpcoaGtZnZO4r4zVCjApImoxmUjk8nc6dx48JocbG3QCCoiE-edd7zzw_aem_lKEhjCMXZG2GgDKXCz3uIQ  

Welcoming to The Chai Room- Robert Emms.  We discussed his new project The Choral, which is out in cinemas right now- make sure to check it out. P.S - the end made me cry and we discuss that.  We also discuss his new project Bad Apples.  This was such a great insight into the mind of an Actor. We chatted about the concept of idolising and hero worshipping the creatives you might be working with to the truth and subtext of acting. How to create the world of your story and emote it through various techniques. I cannot wait for you to hear this and get inspired. Robert's bio: Robert Emms is a film, stage and television actor best known for his roles in Andor, Chernobyl and Happy Valley. His breakout role came when he was starring in the lead role of Albert Narracott in War horse, after Steven Spielberg saw him in the show and cast him in the film version of the play. He has starred in many films including War Horse, Mirror Mirror, Apostasy, Broken aswell as the upcoming Alan Bennett film The Choral and Bad Apples.   Topics Breakdown:  Choral Play Hero Worshipping  Subtext of Acting  Truth of acting Bad Apples (new project) Of course some Rapid responses and WHAT THE CHAI?! To subscribe to Patreon and become a Patron/ supporter of Chai with Rai.  Social: Myself: https://www.instagram.com/chaiwithrai_/ & https://twitter.com/chaiwithrai_ & https://www.tiktok.com/@chaiwithrai Guest: https://www.instagram.com/robertemms/?hl=en     Links: Myself: https://www.raimuitfum.com/chaiwithraihomepage & https://linktr.ee/chaiwithrai_  Guest: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm3016166/?ref_=ttfc_fcr_3_31   Hope you all enjoyed it and Thank you for tuning in. To Subscribe, share, follow my work and everything else is listed above.          

Welcome to the Chai Room 👀☕️ Francesca Gamble I had such a magnetic time with Fran and felt very empowered after our chat. It was such a healing insight into what your mind can look like when you do the work and dare to be brave. How we can lead and stand in the mosh pit of it all, the good, the bad and everything in between. It was also wonderful to have an insight into the business of a fast pace service industry, that often works on KPI's, metrics set by others and orientated to others creative vision. In all of this I truly found an honest voice of Fran's. I cannot wait for you to hear this and get inspired.  Fran's Bio:  Francesca is the founder of Global Talent Network Group and 29 London, celebrating a decade in business this year. With a career spanning top agencies including The Engine Group, M&C Saatchi, and Chime Group, Francesca brings deep expertise in brand building, entrepreneurship, and the business of talent. As a solo founder who has grown her companies without external funding, she offers a unique perspective on building Talent-first strategies and why brands must look beyond influencers to drive real influence and cultural impact. Topics Breakdown:  You often say “talent isn’t the last layer — it is the strategy.” Can you walk us through what that looks like in action? Was there a pivotal moment or challenge in your career that deeply shaped how you show up today? What practices or habits have been most transformative for your growth — both as a founder and as a person? You started mentoring and launching non-profits before the age of 21. Why is mentorship such a central part of your work? What is your valued Success of the agency?  What does your Strength as a founder feel like? Talk us through the Business of being a creative- the pits and the peaks of it.  How do you snap out of wollow moments and where do you find the light?  To subscribe to Patreon and become a Patron/ supporter of Chai with Rai.  Social: Myself: https://www.instagram.com/chaiwithrai_/ & https://twitter.com/chaiwithrai_ & https://www.tiktok.com/@chaiwithrai Guest : https://www.instagram.com/francesca_gamble/ , https://www.instagram.com/29london/ & https://www.instagram.com/gtnconsultancy/  Links: Myself: https://www.raimuitfum.com/chaiwithraihomepage & https://linktr.ee/chaiwithrai_  Guest: https://29-london.com/ , https://www.globaltalentnetworkgroup.com/ & https://becomingmorehuman.co.uk/  Hope you all enjoyed it and Thank you for tuning in. To Subscribe, share, follow my work and everything else is listed above.        

We are BACK! Season 7!  Welcoming to The Chai Room for our first episode is the legendary actor Nabil Elouahabi.  Nabil’s television credits span an impressive range of critically acclaimed series, including Quarter Life, FBI: International, the BAFTA-winning Blue Lights, Unforgotten, Breeders, The Tower, Time, Our Girl, His Dark Materials, Deep State, The Missing, The Night Of, 24: Live Another Day, Top Boy, and the Emmy-nominated HBO miniseries Generation Kill alongside Alexander Skarsgård. One of his most iconic early roles came in the Only Fools and Horses Christmas Day special Strangers on the Shore, where he played Rashid “Gary” Mahmoon - a fan-favourite appearance. Nabil began his screen career working with acclaimed British director Michael Winterbottom (In This World, Code 46), and has since featured in a wide range of celebrated international films including Desert Warrior, Fuze, Heavyweight, The Way of the Wind, Fatum, The Outrun, Hoard, Infinite, Sand Castle, Hyena Road, Reign of the General, Zero Dark Thirty(opposite Jessica Chastain and Jason Clarke), Tower Block, Junkhearts, Blitz, Journey to Mecca, Charlie Wilson’s War(with Tom Hanks), Ali G Indahouse, Deserter, and The Sum of All Fears. On stage, his theatre work includes Noura at Playwrights Horizons (New York), Oslo and Another World at the National Theatre, Fireworks at the Royal Court, Oil at the Almeida, I Call My Brothers and The Nightmares of Carlos Fuentes at the Arcola, and Love Your Soldiers in Sheffield.   Topics breakdown:  Spiritualisim and work on self belief- in an industry where you have to be so Malleable and almost be in the peaks and valleys. How do you maintain the love and belief in your craft as an actor and a storyteller?  Can you have a viable career as an actor, financially and creatively? Brand building in today's digital society from an acting and producing perspective. To subscribe to Patreon and become a Patron/ supporter of Chai with Rai.  Social: Myself: https://www.instagram.com/chaiwithrai_/ & https://twitter.com/chaiwithrai_ & https://www.tiktok.com/@chaiwithrai Guest : https://www.instagram.com/actornabil/?hl=en Links: Myself: https://www.raimuitfum.com/chaiwithraihomepage & https://linktr.ee/chaiwithrai_  Guest: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1029263/?ref_=nmmi_ov_bk  Hope you all enjoyed it and Thank you for tuning in. To Subscribe, share, follow my work and everything else is listed above.

I know Season 6 has wrapped up but I had this episode sitting in the vaults so before we get into Season 7 (Next Year EEEK!) Enjoy this beautiful conversation with actor Faraz Ayub.  p.s- I am very ill so enjoy my husky deep. voice in the begining and let me know what was the drink you sipped on or what was your favourite part of the episode.  Topics Breakdown:  Workshopping the script and the character on Sky Peals.  Preparation of different mediums and your technical approach to creating the world of these characters in Film, theatre and series.  Discussing works such as Ackley Bridge and Screw.  Representation behind and infront of the scenes fro film and series. Rapid Response Questions:  A tip on being financial savvy? Go back to any role or project what would it be and why? And if you were asked to do a part 2/ expansion of it- input  A great thing about being an artist in today’s social, cultural and economical and a challenging thing about it?  Getting into the role- auditioning or when you have booked the job? And how to let go or separate yourself from it? A thing you would like someone to take away with them having met you for a brief second or known you for a long time? Your Favourite thing about yourself either as a creative or person and something you feel is a challenge and are working on? A thing you would like to impart somebody but you never got told ? Words to your mirror self today? 3 things the creative culture could do with and or without? 3 artists really admire their journey or would suggest in checking out their work ? Your thoughts on the entertainment culture or theatre culture in general and a thing you would challenge the industry on? Does strategy and conversation of the business of the industry come in to play?  What the Chai- 30 second rant about anything and everything however you must start or end your rant with the phrase "What the Chai?" Joyfulness- What's one thing that makes Jordi joyful and whats one thing he does for others that makes them feel joyful.  To subscribe to Patreon and become a Patron/ supporter of Chai with Rai.  Social: Myself: https://www.instagram.com/chaiwithrai_/ & https://twitter.com/chaiwithrai_ & https://www.tiktok.com/@chaiwithrai Guest : https://www.instagram.com/officialfaraza/  Links: Myself: https://www.raimuitfum.com/chaiwithraihomepage & https://linktr.ee/chaiwithrai_  Guest: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm3292959/ &  https://www.farazayub.com .  Hope you all enjoyed it and Thank you for tuning in. To Subscribe, share, follow my work and everything else is listed above.    

If this isn't the most Musical episode then I don't know what is! I would like to set a challenge of counting how many impromptu singing moments there are in the episode and the correct answer gets a £10 Nando's Gift Card ;).  Such a joy discussing acting, music and entrepreneurship with Actor & Musician Kush Khanna.  Topics Breakdown:  Discussing Projects such as  - Lime Green/ Boogieman/ Temple/ Patiala House Prep work for each of those films and to get into that space. Short films vs the big budget project that were Patiala and Boogieman.  What was a challenge and a joy of working on those projects? How did Dirty Kit come about and Fashion as an extension.  Barry’s - Director of fun? Explain that role and how it progressed and how its been a constant in your life now whilst you balance music and acting.  Culture around Boutique fitness studios has changed so much how do you in marketing manage to make it still a household name? Sustainable ever since Covid.  Rapid Response Questions:  A tip on being financial savvy? Go back to any role or project what would it be and why? And if you were asked to do a part 2/ expansion of it- input  A great thing about being an artist in today’s social, cultural and economical and a challenging thing about it?  Getting into the role- auditioning or when you have booked the job? And how to let go or sepearate yourself from it? A thing you would like someone to take away with them having met you for a brief second or known you for a long time? Your Favourite thing about yourself either as a creative or person and something you feel is a challenge and are working on? A thing you would like to impart somebody but you never got told ? Words to your mirror self today? 3 things the creative culture could do with and or without? 3 artists really admire their journey or would suggest in checking out their work What the Chai- 30 second rant about anything and everything however you must start or end your rant with the phrase "What the Chai?" Joyfulness- What's one thing that makes Jordi joyful and whats one thing he does for others that makes them feel joyful.  Notes: Artists/ organisations mentioned in the episode are: Chappel Roan, Sigrid and The Last Dinner Party.  To subscribe to Patreon and become a Patron/ supporter of Chai with Rai.  Social: Myself: https://www.instagram.com/chaiwithrai_/ & https://twitter.com/chaiwithrai_ & https://www.tiktok.com/@chaiwithrai Guest : https://www.instagram.com/kushting/?hl=en , https://twitter.com/kushting & https://www.youtube.com/user/Ankushion  Links: Myself: https://www.raimuitfum.com/chaiwithraihomepage & https://linktr.ee/chaiwithrai_  Guest: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm3786050/ & https://open.spotify.com/artist/3VP9UNwEr1CtudkjirEU9s?si=uXxaE49RQ6KoBS-vSQMRSQ  Hope you all enjoyed it and Thank you for tuning in. To Subscribe, share, follow my work and everything else is listed above.  

I love a giddy chat and this was that!  Firstly, this episode is also available as Video so check that out now on Spotify and Youtube. Secondly, this is going to be a 2-parted episode because we had too much to talk about.  Soooooo- Enjoy part 1 with the beaut Actor and Musician Kush Khanna. Discussing all things music, family, friendships, spirituality and more.  Topics Breakdown:  Can you Improv Tho?-  x4 Quick Questions set to specific timers. Referencing Kush's "Imposter syndrome" mentioned in previous episodes and where that stems from? The duality of Kush's exuberance with his music.  First moment you were exposed to that made you go "Music is me". And a song or moment around music, that you have shared with your your Mum and Dad.  Being an Indie artist and the journey of that? Sustainability and marketing? Distribution?  Song's you have done for all your projects. Relationship with music today and what the medium has taught you vs what you have learnt from it? The connection to self and spirituality.  Process to songwriting and Kush's style of music.  To subscribe to Patreon and become a Patron/ supporter of Chai with Rai.  Social: Myself: https://www.instagram.com/chaiwithrai_/ & https://twitter.com/chaiwithrai_ & https://www.tiktok.com/@chaiwithrai Guest : https://www.instagram.com/kushting/?hl=en , https://twitter.com/kushting & https://www.youtube.com/user/Ankushion  Links: Myself: https://www.raimuitfum.com/chaiwithraihomepage & https://linktr.ee/chaiwithrai_  Guest: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm3786050/ & https://open.spotify.com/artist/3VP9UNwEr1CtudkjirEU9s?si=uXxaE49RQ6KoBS-vSQMRSQ  Hope you all enjoyed it and Thank you for tuning in. To Subscribe, share, follow my work and everything else is listed above.  

Firstly, I am on a hunt for a new Chai recipe so erm please can you slide into the DM's and let me know of any new recipe's and flavours to try.  Secondly! What a joy to get to talk with the cast & crew from the play "Permission" at The Space in London. We discussed all things representation, ACE Funding, reflections on the play and its content but also the approach to writing and acting - as well team work.  A lot of nuggets in this one and a massive thank you to Hunia Chawla, Anisa Butt and Rea Malhotra Mukhtyar.  Topics Breakdown:  Can you Improv tho (Warm up games set to short timers).  How was the process? How you feel that its over? What is th next life for the project? Discussing what changed from its first moment at Camdens People Theatre to the last iteration at The Space?  Handling the conversation in the room and balance of roles/ voice.  Discussing the feminine voice of the piece.  Thoughts or advice on collating a team for projects that are close to the creatives experience.  ACE Funding and market strategies.  Getting into the world of the play. A tip on being financial savvy? Go back to any role or project what would it be and why? And if you were asked to do a part 2/ expansion of it- input.  A great thing about being an artist in today’s social, cultural and economical and a challenging thing about it?  Getting into the role- auditioning or when you have booked the job? And how to let go or sepearate yourself from it? A thing you would like someone to take away with them having met you for a brief second or known you for a long time? Your Favourite thing about yourself either as a creative or person and something you feel is a challenge and are working on? A thing you would like to impart somebody but you never got told ? Words to your mirror self today? A thing the creative culture could do with and or without? An artist you really admire their journey or would suggest in checking out their work ? What the Chai- 30 second rant about anything and everything however you must start or end your rant with the phrase "What the Chai?" Joyfulness- What's one thing that makes you joyful and whats one thing he does for others that makes them feel joyful.  3 words ( one word for each of the questions asked) A word an artist should be, A word to describe what an artist should never compromise on and  a feeling an artist should impart on someone always.  Note: Artists mentioned in this episode are: Suhaiymah Manzoor-Khan, Michaela Coel and Frankie Thompson.  To subscribe to Patreon and become a Patron/ supporter of Chai with Rai.  Social: Myself: https://www.instagram.com/chaiwithrai_/ & https://twitter.com/chaiwithrai_ & https://www.tiktok.com/@chaiwithrai Guest : https://www.instagram.com/honeyjamn/ , https://www.instagram.com/anisaaniiam/ & https://www.instagram.com/rea_mm/  Links: Myself: https://www.raimuitfum.com/chaiwithraihomepage & https://linktr.ee/chaiwithrai_  Guest: https://linktr.ee/honeyjam , https://linktr.ee/rea_mm & https://www.imdb.com/name/nm3442808/  Hope you all enjoyed it and Thank you for tuning in. To Subscribe, share, follow my work and everything else is listed above.  

Such a bold and beautiful chat with Director, Producer and Artist Jordi. M Carter on how culture and the industry shapes us. How we are working to find our identity and placement, how we can be in service to art and the artists.  Topics Breakdown:  When was the most euphoric or happiest you were in your job? Walk away Lessons learnt from the following: Young Vic Associates , Theatre Peckham Young and Boundless and how did opportunities in those spaces come to be?  What about theatre and the arts excited you to be working in this industry ?  Black Performance lab- Spirituality, culture, heritage work and facilitating that to non-black creatives/ Transparent conversations around programming, better script work or craft work from directors, writer to actors and do you voice that?  What your DYCP is about and finding on it ? And what is DYCP why it’s so competitive now and also a great opportunity for UK creatives ?  Challenges and joys of decolonising work in theatre and creating your own space.  Rapid Response Questions:  A tip on being financial savvy? Go back to any role or project what would it be and why? And if you were asked to do a part 2/ expansion of it- input  A great thing about being an artist in today’s social, cultural and economical and a challenging thing about it?  Getting into the role- auditioning or when you have booked the job? And how to let go or sepearate yourself from it? A thing you would like someone to take away with them having met you for a brief second or known you for a long time? Your Favourite thing about yourself either as a creative or person and something you feel is a challenge and are working on? A thing you would like to impart somebody but you never got told ? Words to your mirror self today? 3 things the creative culture could do with and or without? 3 artists really admire their journey or would suggest in checking out their work? What the Chai- 30 second rant about anything and everything however you must start or end your rant with the phrase "What the Chai?" Joyfulness- What's one thing that makes Jordi joyful and whats one thing he does for others that makes them feel joyful.  Notes: Artists/ organisations mentioned in the episode are: Ntozake Shange, Lanre Malaolu, Benedict Lombe .  To subscribe to Patreon and become a Patron/ supporter of Chai with Rai.  Social: Myself: https://www.instagram.com/chaiwithrai_/ & https://twitter.com/chaiwithrai_ & https://www.tiktok.com/@chaiwithrai Guest : https://www.instagram.com/jordimcarter/  Links: Myself: https://www.raimuitfum.com/chaiwithraihomepage & https://linktr.ee/chaiwithrai_  Guest: https://salamander-sprout-59c2.squarespace.com/bio & https://creatorsprogram.youngvic.org/member/11771  Hope you all enjoyed it and Thank you for tuning in. To Subscribe, share, follow my work and everything else is listed above.  

The Final part with Gurkiran Kaur as we discuss Kundalini Yoga, South Asian work in UK theatre, voice and dialect coaching andddd of course GAMES! Topics Breakdown: Approach and pathway into Gurkiran's Voice/ Dialect Coaching. How does your practice challenge or Better you work as an actor? And do you feel like you have a balance of it sometimes? Even from a sustainable perspective?  Transparent conversations around programming, better script work or craft work from directors, writer to actors and do you voice that?  Rapid Response Questions:  A tip on being financial savvy? Go back to any role or project what would it be and why? And if you were asked to do a part 2/ expansion of it- input  A great thing about being an artist in today’s social, cultural and economical and a challenging thing about it?  Getting into the role- auditioning or when you have booked the job? And how to let go or sepearate yourself from it? A thing you would like someone to take away with them having met you for a brief second or known you for a long time? Your Favourite thing about yourself either as a creative or person and something you feel is a challenge and are working on? A thing you would like to impart somebody but you never got told ? Words to your mirror self today? 3 things the creative culture could do with and or without? 3 artists really admire their journey or would suggest in checking out their work ? Your thoughts on the entertainment culture or theatre culture in general and a thing you would challenge the industry on? Sippa Chai or Play with Rai- Segmented Games Round. What the Chai- 30 second rant about anything and everything however you must start or end your rant with the phrase "What the Chai?" Joyfulness- What's one thing that makes Gurkiran joyful and whats one thing he does for others that makes them feel joyful.  Notes:  Artists/Organisations mentioned: Bush Theatre, Milli Bhatia and Lung Theatre.  To subscribe to Patreon and become a Patron/ supporter of Chai with Rai.  Social: Myself: https://www.instagram.com/chaiwithrai_/ & https://twitter.com/chaiwithrai_ & https://www.tiktok.com/@chaiwithrai Guest : https://www.instagram.com/gurkirank/ & https://x.com/gurkirank?lang=en-GB  Links: Myself: https://www.raimuitfum.com/chaiwithraihomepage & https://linktr.ee/chaiwithrai_  Guest: https://www.gurkirankaur.com/ & https://www.imdb.com/name/nm5019164/ Hope you all enjoyed it and Thank you for tuning in. To Subscribe, share, follow my work and everything else is listed above.  

This is going to be a two-parted episode as we had so much to talk on from voice coaching to the culture of British South Asian Theatre and more! Such a joy to speak with actor and Voice/Dialect Coach Gurkiran Kaur .  Topics Breakdown: Can you Improv though-Warm up games set to 4 timing settings.  How did she get into acting and where did that passion stem from? Difference mentally, financially and experience wise from first acting gig to most recent? The pivoting into Voice/Dialect coaching. Finding placement in a project as an actor and as a coach.  How the process of voice/dialect coach works on a production.  How do you feel productions could better utilise the work that you do or pay more attention to it. Whether that is from directors or Writers or producers? The work Gurkiran has done within British South Asian Theatre. To subscribe to Patreon and become a Patron/ supporter of Chai with Rai.  Social: Myself: https://www.instagram.com/chaiwithrai_/ & https://twitter.com/chaiwithrai_ & https://www.tiktok.com/@chaiwithrai Guest : https://www.instagram.com/gurkirank/ & https://x.com/gurkirank?lang=en-GB  Links: Myself: https://www.raimuitfum.com/chaiwithraihomepage & https://linktr.ee/chaiwithrai_  Guest: https://www.gurkirankaur.com/ & https://www.imdb.com/name/nm5019164/ Hope you all enjoyed it and Thank you for tuning in. To Subscribe, share, follow my work and everything else is listed above.  

It all went down in the underworld! From discussing spirituality, placement of your craft as an artist, career trajectory, mindset of being a creative. To the love for the exquisite premium vanilla that is Taylor Swift and everything in between. T'was a joy to share a cuppa with the exuberant soul that is Zachary James.  Topics Breakdown:  Can you Improv though-Warm up games set to 4 timing settings.  Hadestown-  Where do you find the heart/ the empathy point? How do you approach when creating the world of the play and the world of your role and what becomes your boundary? Discussing the culture and the weight around a transfer of a role especially when you have seen the show. Finding your role and placement within an ensemble cast and how to be generous but also own the space and do the work. How was the sitzprobe? Something about the show you haven’t told anyone yet and a thing that didn’t make it form rehearsals or previews into the show now?  Solo debut show on 15th July,24- How do you curate the show and explore what needs to be explored? You’re producing it too? The premise around your life in opera and theatre? Telling more on that.  3 Projects: Akhnaten, RUSALKA and Philip Glass’s “The Perfect American”- How do you sink your teeth into that world and also make that accessible when it’s a medium very much designed to a specific audience? Also those 3 projects a thing you cherish, a thing you could let go of and a thing you found challenging about it?  How much goes into your mindset about the business of being in this industry or a show? You have discussed with such passion about accessibility ( theatre prices)  and inclusion/ diverse at points. What do you feel the current state holds?  Do you think about trajectory, sustainability and strategy? Especially having hit so many milestones and worked with such high calibre collaborators? Does also the pressure of that weigh or does it seamlessly flow?  Discussing Visitability in status within the industry  and culture of accolades.  Kindness and Strength as an individual- Where it comes from? Stem of it? Rapid Response Questions:  A tip on being financial savvy? A pivotal part in your life that stands out when I ask “ the most fruitful lesson you got gifted” what was it And sharing the message in your life? 3 things the creative culture could do with and or without? Sippa Chai or Play with Rai- Segmented Games Round. What the Chai- 30 second rant about anything and everything however you must start or end your rant with the phrase "What the Chai?" Joyfulness- What's one thing that makes Zachary joyful and whats one thing he does for others that makes them feel joyful.  You can purchase tickets to Zachary's solo show at Crazy Coqs HERE and Hadestown HERE.  To subscribe to Patreon and become a Patron/ supporter of Chai with Rai.  Social: Myself: https://www.instagram.com/chaiwithrai_/ & https://twitter.com/chaiwithrai_ & https://www.tiktok.com/@chaiwithrai Guest :https://www.instagram.com/theofficialzacharyjames/?hl=en , https://x.com/_zachary_james_?lang=en-GB  Links: Myself: https://www.raimuitfum.com/chaiwithraihomepage & https://linktr.ee/chaiwithrai_  Guest: https://zacharyjames.komi.io/ & https://www.imdb.com/name/nm3204137/  Hope you all enjoyed it and Thank you for tuning in. To Subscribe, share, follow my work and everything else is listed above.    

We are back with delicious and juicy interviews and what a lineup I have coming for you babsies.  Warm up your cuppa because actor and writer Zakiyyah Deen is in the building and we spill it all. From discussing Why a Black Woman will never be a Prime Minister of the UK to how to pitch your theatre projects and your boundaries as an artist.  Topics breakdown:  Can you Improv though- New Warm up games. Zakiyyah's current play- "Why a Black Women will never be a prime minister." Where did it come from? Where it is at? And WHY!? Because this is an exclusive interview- we get into it! Her story from birth to now and how the arts came to be? Commissioning and what doing programs such as Young Vic's Fresh Direction program has taught her? Discussing projects such as: Is dat u yh? The Brassic FM show? Enterprice? How do you find the ownership within what you input and placement within the show ? And how do you detach?  Cultural identity and it becoming a kryptonite or your beacon? Niche as a performer?  Quick Round:  A tip on being financial savvy? A tip on grant application or arts application in general? A tip on writing a project? Go back to any role or project what would it be and why? And if you were asked to do a part 2/ expansion of it- input  A great thing about being an artist in today’s social, cultural and economical and a challenging thing about it?  Getting into the role- auditioning or when you have booked the job? And how to let go or sepearate yourself from it? A thing you would like someone to take away with them having met you for a brief second or known you for a long time Your Favourite thing about yourself either as a creative or person and something you feel is a challenge and are working on A thing you would like to impart somebody but you never got told or  Words to your mirror self 3 things the creative culture could do with or without 3 artists really admire their journey or would suggest in checking out their work  Your thoughts on the entertainment culture or theatre culture in general and a thing you would challenge the industry on Then we play Sippa Chai or Play with Rai, end with our "What the Chai" rant and what makes Zakiyyah joyful and how she brings joyfulness to others.  Note: Artists mentioned in this podcast are: https://theartistspartnership.co.uk/artist/reda-elazouar/   https://www.hamiltonhodell.co.uk/talent/tobi-king-bakare/   https://www.dkfash.com/   You can also check out Zakiyyah's blog HERE.    To subscribe to Patreon and become a Patron/ supporter of Chai with Rai.  Social: Myself: https://www.instagram.com/chaiwithrai_/ & https://twitter.com/chaiwithrai_ & https://www.tiktok.com/@chaiwithrai Guest: https://www.instagram.com/zakiyyahdeen/?hl=en   Links: Myself: https://www.raimuitfum.com/chaiwithraihomepage & https://linktr.ee/chaiwithrai_  Guest: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm10987227/ , https://www.unitedagents.co.uk/zakiyyah-deen & https://creatorsprogram.youngvic.org/member/13746  Hope you all enjoyed it and Thank you for tuning in. To Subscribe, share, follow my work and everything else is listed above.    

Grabbed a cuppa with the talented Ra'eesah to discuss her writing process for "38%" an audio story for the series Symphonies of Beaded Threads. We also discussed her unique voice as an artist, organisational make up of the theatre industry and of course poetry.  Also, with this I conclude the series of discussing BTS stuff and more with the writers behind Symphonies of Beaded Threads. I hope you enjoyed it and more to come!  About Ra'eesah:  Ra’eesah is a multifaceted creative using the mediums of theatre, film, music and spoken word to tell stories, bring people together and effect positive change. She has performed on stage as an actor and singer at the Bush Theatre as well as with The Old Vic/Neon Arts.  She has produced projects such as The Self-Expression Sessions, a series of spoken word poetry workshops open to people of all ages and abilities, to increase accessibility to the arts and build community through creativity and culture. Further projects Ra’eesah has produced on include Licence to DV8 at the Royal Albert Hall and arts festivals at Almeida Theatre and London Bubble, focusing on outreach. She is a trustee of the Roundhouse and WEST Youth Zone and has contributed to several other organisations including Old Vic Theatre and A New Direction through youth advisory. To Listen to Ra'eesah's story CLICK HERE.  To subscribe to Patreon and become a Patron/ supporter of Chai with Rai.  Social: Myself: https://www.instagram.com/chaiwithrai_/ & https://twitter.com/chaiwithrai_ & https://www.tiktok.com/@chaiwithrai Guest: https://www.instagram.com/ra.eesahh/ , https://twitter.com/Ra_eesahh & https://app.spotlight.com/3812-7862-7993 Links: Myself: https://www.raimuitfum.com/chaiwithraihomepage & https://linktr.ee/chaiwithrai_  Hope you all enjoyed it and Thank you for tuning in. To Subscribe, share, follow my work and everything else is listed above.    

Sat down with the wordsmith that is Riana Howarth to discuss a blossoming  and emerging career in theatre and more. We also dove into her audio story "She'd Sit" from the audio series "Symphonies of Beaded Threads"-  the experience of writing that and what she hopes the listeners take from it.  About Riana: Riana is an aspiring writer and illustrator with a curiosity for all/most things weird and wonderful. With a background in acting and experience in assisting in youth theatre classes at the Questors Theatre, she uses this knowledge to inspire her creative writing. Between writing theatre reviews for North West End UK, she is trying to develop a consistent writing practice, exploring various themes, topics and styles. She is currently part of the Fresh Direction Program at The Young Vic Theatre (2022/2023). To Listen to Riana's short audio story Click HERE.  To subscribe to Patreon  and become a Patron/ supporter of Chai with Rai.  Social: Myself: https://www.instagram.com/chaiwithrai_/ & https://twitter.com/chaiwithrai_ & https://www.tiktok.com/@chaiwithrai Guest: https://www.instagram.com/art.riiii/ & https://creatorsprogram.youngvic.org/member/10091 Links: Myself: https://www.raimuitfum.com/chaiwithraihomepage & https://linktr.ee/chaiwithrai_  Hope you all enjoyed it and Thank you for tuning in. To Subscribe, share, follow my work and everything else is listed above.