Before the Applause Podcast
Before the Applause Podcast – hosted by David Watson – is your backstage pass to the creative industries. This audio deep dive uncovers the real stories behind the arts and cultural experiences we all enjoy but rarely think about before the curtain rises.
Each episode brings you candid conversations with the people who make it happen—dancers, producers, designers, actors, DJs, photographers, costumers, marketers, publicists, data analysts, and many more. From the triumphs to the challenges, David lifts the lid on what it truly means to build a career in this dynamic and ever-evolving industry.
Whether you’re an aspiring creative, a seasoned professional, or just curious about the work behind the magic, Before the Applause is here to celebrate the people who bring ideas to life.
Before the Applause Podcast
Latest Episodes
Ghostwriting the Greats: Legacy, Lights & the Language of Spectacle with Dan Shipton
Step behind the curtain with Dan Shipton, the visionary creative director whose spectacular work has dazzled millions worldwide. As co-founder of Black Skull Creative, Dan has crafted some of entertainment's most unforgettable moments—from Sam ...
Midlands to Main Stage: Leaps, Lashes & Limitless Ambition with Harvey Bowen (aka Naya Thorn)
Meet Harvey Bowen – the 23-year-old creative force behind the fierce fashions and perfect paint of rising drag sensation Naya Thorn. In this intimate conversation, Harvey takes us from childhood in the Midlands to centre stage in the UK drag sc...
Ballet to Bridgerton: A Life Beyond the Barre & Breaking Through with Max Westwell
When Max Westwell stepped away from a successful 12-year career with English National Ballet, many thought he was making a catastrophic mistake. But Max has always been driven by curiosity and evolution, refusing to be confined to a single arti...
Blue Circles and Breaking Boundaries: The Art of Drag & Self-Discovery with Pip Doran / Sister Sister
Creativity blooms in unexpected places. For Pip Doran - better known to fans worldwide as the blue circle-wearing Scouse drag superstar Sister Sister - early inspiration came from a female-led household where art experimentation wasn't just all...
Spectacle with Substance: Rooted in Community, Built on Vision with Niccy Hallifax
Meeting Niccy Hallifax feels like encountering a whirlwind of creative energy. This extraordinary producer and artistic director has shaped some of our most memorable cultural moments – from Olympic ceremonies to city-wide cultural celebrations...