Let's Chat Showbiz

In episode 17 of Let’s Chat Showbiz we sat down with actor and writer Scott Brennan.Scott shared stories from his writing career, including his time working on Skithouse, Prank Patrol and The Project. He spoke about the joy he found in writing, along with the pressure that comes with working on live television.We also spoke about his role on Neighbours playing Josh Burns and what it was like working alongside Stefan Dennis. Scott shared how he found out that his character was going to die on the show and what it was like filming those scenes.Scott reflected on his time on Blue Heelers and what he remembers about filming those episodes. We also touched on his time on Comedy Inc and what he enjoyed most about working on that show.Moving to his stage work, we discussed Fountain Lakes in Lockdown & Fountain Lakes Y2K where he plays Kel and Brett. Scott shared his first thoughts when he was approached about the show and what it was like bringing those characters to life.We also talked about Spontaneous Broadway, which Scott described as the best show in the world. He explained what the show is about and the fun he had performing it.Scott also opened up about his friendship with the late Cal Wilson and what that friendship meant to him. He spoke about the connection they shared and also reflected on his friendship with the late Maxi Shield, sharing what it was like spending time with her while in Edinburgh.It was a fantastic interview filled with plenty of laughs and some wonderful stories.#LetsChatShowbiz #ScottBrennan #AustralianActors #AustralianTV #AustralianComedy #Neighbours #BlueHeelers #ComedyInc #Skithouse #PrankPatrol #TheProjectTV #SpontaneousBroadway #FountainLakesInLockdown #PodcastInterview #AustralianPodcast

In episode 16 of Let’s Chat Showbiz, we sat down with award winning Actor and writer Darren Gilshenan. Darren shared how he ended up at NIDA and what that whole experience was like for him, along with his time working with the Bell Shakespeare theatre group. Darren spoke about some of his theatre credits too, including Mother and Son alongside Nolene Brown and Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf with Genevieve Lemon. Darren also shared which roles challenged him the most on stage and why they really pushed him as an actor.Darren reflected on his television work as well, including A Country Practice, Population 11, playing Uncle Terry in The Moodys and A Moody Christmas, and Chandon Pictures alongside Rob Carlton. Darren shared that he’s currently directing Rob in his latest show and opened up about their long friendship and creative partnership.Darren also shared what it was like filming No Activity with Patrick Brammall, how much of it was improvised and where the idea for the show originally came from. He spoke about playing creepy Professor Lee in Colin from Accounts, working alongside Helen Thomson, and revealed that he’s currently right in the middle of shooting season three. It was such a fun and honest conversation covering so many parts of Darren’s career both on stage and on screen.#LetsChatShowbiz #DarrenGilshenan #AustralianActors #AussieTV #AustralianTelevision #TheatreLife #AustralianTheatre #StageAndScreen #BehindTheScenes #ShowbizPodcast #ActorLife #TVandFilm #AustralianArts #OnSetStories #ImprovisedComedy #ColinFromAccounts #NoActivity #BellShakespeare #NIDA #Colinfromaccounts #Population11 #RobCarlton

In Episode 15 of Let’s Chat Showbiz, we sat down with award winning cabaret and fringe artist Millicent Sarre! Millicent opens up about her experience in Class of Cabaret and how she found her place within the industry. She speaks about why mentoring emerging performers is so important to her, and how she enjoys working with Mark Oats.We also dive into her Fringe shows, including Millicent Sarre is Opinionated and Bisexual Intellectual, exploring where the ideas came from and the creative process behind writing and developing her work.Millicent also chats about her brand new show Millicent Sarre is Too Tired to Smash (Patriarchy), premiering at the Adelaide Fringe Festival, and gives audiences an exciting insight into what they can expect.She shares the huge experience of understudying the entire female cast of Kimberly Akimbo, how she managed such a challenge, and what it meant to step into roles alongside Marina Prior and Casey Donovan.We also discuss Primetime, the new Australian musical Millicent wrote with co writer Joseph Simons. She talks about how they began collaborating, where the concept originated, and what audiences can look forward to.To wrap up, Millicent shares who inspires her most within the industry today. We thank Millicent for an amazing interview! #LetsChatShowbiz #MillicentSarre #AdelaideFringe #AdelaideFringeFestival #CabaretArtist #AustralianCabaret #FringeFestival #AwardWinningArtist #AustralianTheatre #MusicalTheatreAustralia #KimberlyAkimbo #MitchellButel #CaseyDonovan #MarinaPrior #PrimeTimeMusical #NewAustralianMusical #TheatreLife #StageStories #AdelaideArts #AdelaideCreatives #ShowbizPodcast #AustralianPodcast #PodcastGuest #TheatrePodcast #CabaretScene #PerformingArtsAustralia

In episode 14 of Let’s Chat Showbiz we sit down with filmmaker, producer, writer and director Sophie Hyde. She talks about how her career began and some of the early projects that shaped her work including 52 Tuesdays and the process of filming it as well as creating the six part series F**king Adelaide. We chat about the cast which includes Pamela Rabe and Sophie shares a lot about what it was like working with her. She also talks about the film Good Luck to You Leo Grande and what it was like directing Emma Thompson along with the challenges of working during Covid.We also get into her new film Jimpa how the idea came about and what the story means to her. Sophie talks about working with Olivia Colman and their first interactions. She reflects on working on the SBS series The Hunting with Richard Roxburgh, Asher Keddie, Jessica De Gouw and Sam Reid. She also talks about her friendship with Kate Box and how it began and shares a fun story about attending Olivia Colman’s fiftieth birthday party.We thank Sophie for giving us her time during a busy schedule and for such a great and generous interview.#SophieHyde #LetsChatShowbiz #52Tuesdays #FuckingAdelaide #GoodLuckToYouLeoGrande #EmmaThompson #OliviaColman #Jimpa #PamelaRabe #RichardRoxburgh #AsherKeddie #JessicaDeGouw #SamReid #KateBox #AustralianFilm #FilmmakerInterview #FilmDirector #BehindTheScenes

In Episode 13 of Let’s Chat Showbiz, we sit down with the incredibly talented Lucy Maunder to chat all things showbiz! Lucy shares how her remarkable career began at WAAPA and reflects on her journey through the Australian theatre scene.She opens up about the recent passing of Ben Lewis, her close friendship and experiences working alongside Tom Wren, and some of her most memorable career highlights! From Dr Zhivago alongside Anthony Warlow, to Mary Poppins, Pippin, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Matilda, and of course, her dream role as Roxie Hart in the Australian tour of Chicago.Lucy also gives us a glimpse into the audition process, working with Zoe Ventoura, her connection with Marina Prior, and the challenges and joys of balancing motherhood with a life on stage. This interview was such great fun, and Lucy had so much to share!#LetsChatShowbiz #LucyMaunder #AustralianTheatre #AussieTalent #MusicalTheatre #WAAPA #DrZhivago #AnthonyWarlow #MaryPoppins #Pippin #CharlieAndTheChocolateFactory #MatildaTheMusical #ChicagoTheMusical #RoxieHart #ZoeVentoura #MarinaPrior #BenLewis #TomWren #TheatreLife #PerformerLife #StageAndScreen #BehindTheScenes #ShowbizPodcast #PodcastInterview #AustralianPerformer #WomenInTheatre #AdelaidePodcast #TheatreCommunity #ActingJourney #BroadwayDownUnder #SupportAussieArts

In Episode 12 of Let’s Chat Showbiz we sit down with actor Annie Byron, whose career spans film, theatre, and television since graduating from NIDA in 1977 alongside Mel Gibson and Judy DavisAnnie reflects on her early days and shares memories of her classmates including her memories of Wayne Jarrett. We dive into her career highlights. She talks about playing Lou Sullivan in The Sullivans with Michael Caton, and winning the AFI Award for her performance in Fran alongside Noni Hazlehurst. She also revisits her role in Muriel’s Wedding with Rachel Griffiths, and her chilling turn in Wolf Creek 2 with John Jarratt and Gerard Kennedy, including how her on-screen death was filmed.Later, Annie shares her experiences working with Cate Blanchett and her time in New York, where she crossed paths with Meryl Streep, Jane Fonda, and Philip Seymour Hoffman. She also reflects on her appearances in A Country Practice, Home and Away, and many other productions across stage and screen.#AnnieByron #AustralianActor #NIDA #FilmAndTheatre #TelevisionActress #TheSullivans #Fran #MurielsWedding #WolfCreek2 #ACountryPractice #LetsChatShowbiz #HomeAndAway #AFIAward #AustralianFilm #StageAndScreen #ActingCareer #BehindTheScenes #ActorInterview #ShowbizStories #OnScreenAndStage #AustralianTelevision #FilmHistory #AustralianTheatre #ActingJourney

In Episode 11 of Let’s Chat Showbiz, we sit down with Adelaide’s very own cabaret star, Michael Griffiths. From his early days at WAAPA to performing on stages across the globe, Michael shares the highs, the hilarity, and the heart behind a life in showbiz.We dive into his incredible journey—from being cast in a Disney-produced telemovie to appearing in the original Australian productions of Shout! and Priscilla, Queen of the Desert, where he worked alongside the legendary Bill Hunter (and shares a brilliant story about him too).Michael opens up about his love for cabaret, his most cherished memories of the Adelaide Cabaret Festival, and the joy of performing internationally. We chat about his inspiring collaboration with icon Carlotta, a chance encounter in Times Square with Caroline O’Connor, and working with talents like Virginia Gay.He also reflects on meeting the likes of Tom Cruise, Elton John, and Liza Minnelli, and we touch on the importance of health, balance, and winding down after the curtain falls.A big thank you to Michael for sharing his time and stories.#LetsChatShowbiz #MichaelGriffiths #AdelaideCabaretFestival #CabaretStar #AustralianTheatre #WAAPAAlumni #PriscillaQueenOfTheDesert #ShoutTheMusical #Carlotta #CarolineOConnor #VirginiaGay #EltonJohn #TomCruise #LizaMinnelli #BehindTheCurtain #TheatreLife #CabaretLife #PerformerStories #ShowbizPodcast #AussieTalent #PodcastInterview #CreativeJourney #LivePerformance #AdelaidePodcast #SpotifyPodcast #ApplePodcasts #YouTubePodcast #StageAndScreen #AustralianPerformer

In Episode 10 of Let’s Chat Showbiz, we sit down with the incredibly talented Dr. Trevor Jones.We dive into his recent role as the Major General — along with his work as Musical Director — in The Pirates of Penzance. Trevor shares some behind-the-scenes stories, including the chaos and fun of lightning-fast costume changes. Our chat explores his career as a conductor and music educator, and what continues to drive his passion for both.We also talk all things Adelaide Cabaret Festival. Trevor has been a fixture at the festival for over 11 years, and he reflects on how it all began, the loyal following it’s built, and some of his favourite memories — including performing with Deborah Conway and Angie Hart.Trevor gets real about the importance of self-care in the entertainment industry — from late nights and constant travel, to managing the highs and lows that come with life on the road. He also explains the story behind “Dr. Trevor Jones,” and the pros and cons of carrying that title in showbiz.Plus, we hear about some of the pinch-me moments in his career, like meeting his idols Michael Feinstein, John Cameron Mitchell, and the legendary Patti LuPone.A huge thank you to Trevor for taking the time to chat with us and for sharing his stories, wisdom, and humour! This episode is packed with insight, laughs, and honest conversation — you won’t want to miss it!#LetsChatShowbiz #DrTrevorJones #TrevorJones #PiratesOfPenzance #AdelaideCabaretFestival #CabaretLife #BehindTheScenes #MusicDirector #ConductorLife #TheatreCommunity #MusicalTheatre #PerformerLife #ShowbizStories #CabaretAustralia #AdelaideArts #AussieTheatre #StageLife #PerformerJourney #PattiLuPone #JohnCameronMitchell #MichaelFeinstein #ArtsIndustry #EntertainmentLife #PodcastAustralia #CreativeIndustry

In Episode 9 of Lets Chat Showbiz, we had the pleasure of sitting down with the talented Jennifer Vuletic. She spoke enthusiastically about her recent role as Madame Morrible in Wicked, sharing insights into the fun and energy of performing live on stage. Jennifer also reflected on her past theatre work, including roles in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and Mamma Mia, and expressed interest in future roles she hopes to take on.The conversation also touched on Jennifer’s current performance in the stage adaptation of Looking for Alibrandi, running in Adelaide from 22 to 31 May. She highlighted the significance of the story and what audiences can look forward to. Jennifer spoke passionately about the themes of the play and its cultural relevance.Beyond theatre, Jennifer shared her experience in voiceover work, including narrating the audiobook for former Prime Minister Julia Gillard and the memorable moment she met her. We also delved into Jennifer’s screen career, particularly her role as Mandy Mullet Frost in Wentworth and the strong friendships she formed with castmates like Kate Box. Other notable screen credits she discussed included Miss Fisher’s Modern Murder Mysteries, The Surrogate, and The Howling III.We thank Jennifer for her time and captivating storytelling! #LetsChatShowbiz #JenniferVuletic #WickedTheMusical #LookingForAlibrandi #AdelaideTheatre #AustralianTheatre #StageAndScreen #VoiceOverArtist #WentworthTV #MammaMiaMusical #ChittyChittyBangBang #MissFishersMysteries #TheSurrogate #HowlingIII #JuliaGillard #BehindTheScenes #TheatreLife #ActorInterview #WomenInTheatre #LivePerformance #MustSeeShow #TVAndTheatre #AustralianActress #OnStageAndScreen #PodcastInterview

In Episode 8 of Lets Chat Showbiz we had the pleasure of sitting down with the incredibly talented Sally Bourne, who brings with her over 40 years of experience in the world of showbiz. From her recent role in Sister Act, touring across Australia to her early days as the original Annie in Annie the Musical. Sally shares a wealth of captivating stories. She reflects on her performance on The Don Lane Show at just 12 years old and opens up about the many stages she's graced across Australia and London's West End.Sally also takes us behind the scenes of her time on the iconic television series Prisoner, fondly recalling her work alongside the late Anne Phelan. With warmth and honesty, she speaks about the influence of her father, Ernie Bourne—an icon of Australian showbiz—and the pivotal role he played in shaping her career. Her reflections are both touching and inspiring, offering listeners a heartfelt glimpse into her journey.In addition to her theatre and TV highlights, Sally talks about her roles in classic Australian series like Neighbours and I Can Jump Puddles. She shares stories of her long-standing friendship with Neighbours star Lucinda Cowden, Sally also shares her thoughts on Neighbours ending. This episode is a celebration of a rich and enduring career, filled with humour, legacy, and the resilience of a true performer.#SallyBourne #LetsChatShowbiz #AustralianTheatre #MusicalTheatre #WestEnd #SisterActTour #AnnieTheMusical #NeighboursTV #ICanJumpPuddles #PrisonerTV #DonLaneShow #LucindaCowden #ErnieBourne #ShowbizLegends #BehindTheScenes #TheatreLife #TVHistory #ActingCareer #WomenInTheatre #AustralianIcons #PerformerSpotlight #ActressInterview #ShowbizJourney #LegacyInEntertainment #TVandTheatre #InspiringStories #EntertainmentPodcast #LetsChatShowBiz

In episode seven of Let’s Chat Showbiz, we had the pleasure of sitting down with the incredible Emma Powell.Emma shared fascinating stories from her extensive career in theatre, including her time in Kinky Boots, where she had the unforgettable experience of meeting Kylie Minogue, and her powerful four-year run as Beulah in Come From Away, a show she described as deeply meaningful. We also spoke about her recent work in Menopause the Musical, her hilarious role as Shirley in Priscilla, and how she landed her part in The Pirates of Penzance alongside the legendary Jon English, with whom she formed a lasting friendship. Emma opened up about her acclaimed cabaret show Bursting Out, revealing the inspiration behind it and its success, and delighted us with stories about meeting the Queen and a humorous encounter with Prince Philip. We also explored her time performing in Mamma Mia! and Sister Act: The Musical. I can honestly say I’ve never laughed so much during an interview—Emma was an absolute joy. We’re incredibly grateful to her for sharing her time, energy, and wonderful stories with us.#LetsChatShowBiz #AustralianShowbiz #ShowbizPodcast #AussieCelebrities #ShowbizTalk #AustraliaEntertainment #PodcastingAustralia #AussieShowbizInsights #letschatshowbiz #EmmaPowell #TheatreLife #MusicalTheatre #ComeFromAway #KinkyBoots #PriscillaQueenOfTheDesert #PiratesOfPenzance #MenopauseTheMusical #MammaMiaMusical #SisterActMusical #CabaretShow #BehindTheScenes #TheatreStories #StageAndScreen

In episode six of Let's Chat Showbiz, we had the pleasure of interviewing two of Australia’s most celebrated performers: Rhonda Burchmore and Genevieve Lemon. This episode is filled with their captivating stories and valuable insights drawn from their remarkable careers in ShowBiz. They delve into their current roles in Sister Act, sharing the joy and camaraderie they experience on stage. They both reflect on their time in the West End, along with other theatre roles they’ve played. Genevieve reminisces about her cherished friendships with the late Maxine Klibingaitis and Betty Bobbitt, which was formed during her time on the cult television series “Prisoner.” Rhonda, shares fascinating insights from her work on “The Pirate Movie”. Rhonda also opens up about her adventurous stint on Channel 10’s I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here. This interview is truly special, as the genuine bond between Rhonda and Genevieve shines through their conversation. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to both of them for their time and unwavering support for Let's Chat Showbiz!AustralianShowbiz #ShowbizPodcast #AussieCelebrities #ShowbizTalk #AustraliaEntertainment #PodcastingAustralia #AussieShowbizInsights #ThePirateMovie #letschatshowbiz #RhondaBurchmore #GenevieveLemon #Stage #theatre #SisterActAU #Icons #Prsioner #Actors #Screen #OAM #imaceleb #Showbiz

In episode 5, we had a fabulous time chatting with the incredibly talented Thomas Jaspers. During our conversation, he opened up about the origins of “Fountsin lakes in Lockdown: A Drag Parody” and shared some delightful insights about his creation, “Granny Bingo.” Thomas also shared stories from his unforgettable 30th birthday bash, where the legendary Patti and Bert Newton graced the stage. His passion for Australian television really shines through as he reminisces about classics like Prisoner and Seachange. Plus, he shares the joy of his friendship with fellow comedian Joel Creasey. This interview was an absolute blast, and we’re so grateful to Thomas for sharing his time and stories with us!#ThomasJaspers #fountainlakesinlockdown #RhondaButchmore #KathandKim#Drag #Grannybingo #comedy #melbourne #Kim #Actor #interview #podcast #AustralianShowbiz #ShowbizPodcast #AussieCelebrities #ShowbizTalk #AustraliaEntertainment #PodcastingAustralia #AussieShowbizInsights #letschatshowbiz #JoelCreasey #adelaide #BertNewton #PattiNewton #SeaChange #Prisoner

In episode 4 of Let’s Chat Showbiz, we had the pleasure of sitting down with the talented Francis Greenslade. He shared his experiences working on Channel 7's Winners and Losers, reminiscing about his time with Denise Scott and the beloved late Anne Phelan. Our conversation also explored his various television roles in popular shows like Irreverent, Full Frontal, Blue Heelers, and Shaun Micallef’s Mad As Hell. Francis opened up about his friendship with Shaun Micallef and their collaborative work at the Melbourne Theatre Company in The Odd Couple. A very enjoyable interview, we thank Francis for his time and sharing his incredible career with us! Now Available on YouTube, Spotify and Apple! 🎙️✨#AustralianShowbiz #ShowbizPodcast #AussieCelebrities #ShowbizTalk #AustraliaEntertainment #CHANNEL7 #madashell #ABC #WinnersAndLosers #PodcastingAustralia #SeaChange #fullfrontal #Australian #Actor #AussieShowbizInsights #letschatshowbiz #AnnePhelan #DeniseScott

We had the incredible opportunity to chat with the talented Logie Award-winning actor, Rob Carlton. With an impressive list of acting credits, Rob recently made a memorable cameo in “The White Lotus” that you won’t want to miss!In this episode, Rob takes us on a journey through the characters he’s brought to life on screen, including his award-winning portrayal of Kerry Packer in “Paper Giants”. He opens up about nearly turning down this iconic role out of fear, and what research he did for the role. Rob also reminisces about his time on “Wanted”, sharing stories from his adventures filming across the beautiful landscapes of South Australia. He dives into his connection with Trent Dalton and how he was thrilled to gstthe role in “Boy Swallows Universe”. Plus, he gives us the inside scoop on creating his own series, “Chandon Pictures”, which is still available for streaming on Stan!Currently, Rob is on tour with his one-man show “Willing Participant,” performing at the Adelaide Fringe Festival until March 16th before heading to the Newcastle Fringe and the Melbourne Comedy Festival. The reviews have been stellar, and his show even snagged the Best Show award at the Perth Fringe! Stay in the loop with Rob’s tour dates and grab your tickets by visiting his website linked below! A huge thank you to Rob for sharing his time and insights with us—we wish him all the success with his show!https://www.robcarlton.com/story-teller#robcarlton #adlfringe #showbizpodcast #letschatshowbiz #australiaentertainment #ShowbizTalk #Logies #SilverLogie #Logiewinner #Wanted #TheWhiteLotus #Estreet #ACountryPractise #PaperGiants #BoySwallowsUniverse #TrentDolton #tickets #fringefestival #adelaide#WillingParticipant

We had the pleasure of sitting down with Didi James, with a remarkable career in showbiz. She is known for her talents as a dancer, choreographer, presenter, and entertainer. In this episode, Didi shares her journey, revealing that her passion for dance sparked at a very young age. Throughout her career, she has worked with icons such as Peter Allen and John Farnham, highlighting the pivotal role that Tom Fairly played in launching her career.Didi shares an interesting story about how she landed the role of Winkie Dink and the surprising reasons behind her initial reluctance to accept it. She also shares a humorous story involving an elephant on set, adding a delightful twist to our conversation.Didi reflects on her enduring friendship with Australian actor Brian Wenzel and how he opened doors for her, including a role on “A Country Practice” and nearly signing with Crawford Productions. She discusses her experience on “Ladies in Black” and her bond with host Connor Muller, emphasizing the joy and camaraderie she found on set, along with her appreciation for the talented crew and team behind the show.Filming this episode was an absolute delight, and it’s clear that Didi is a true legend in the industry!

We had the pleasure of sitting down with the much loved performer and Adelaide icon, Vonni. She opens up about her remarkable journey in showbiz, revealing everything from the glitz and glamour, the highlights and the unforgettable adventures. From her time at Les Girls in Sydney to her role in Priscilla Queen of the Desert, Vonni shares her experiences with insight and humor. She also discusses the realities of transphobia, reflects on her friendship with the legendary Carlotta, and highlights her career milestones. This captivating interview is nothing short of a joy to share.We extend a heartfelt thank you to Vonni for her incredible support of our podcast. We truly appreciate her time and the brilliant storytelling she brings to the table.