The WhatsOnStage Podcast
Sarah Crompton & Alex WoodWhatsOnStage managing editor Alex Wood and chief theatre critic Sarah Crompton host a weekly podcast on all things theatrical. News, views, frank exchanges and lists offer an unmissable guide to what’s happening on stage (and in film and on television) now, in the past and in future. From musicals, to plays, to immersive shows, to interviews with the biggest stars, there's something for everyone! ... more
| Publishes | Twice weekly | Episodes | 252 | Founded | 4 years ago |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Listeners | Categories | Performing ArtsSociety & CultureArts | |||
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Latest Episodes
The year of the London Olympics and its successor sees theatre at a red hot peak. Sarah and Alex discuss plays from James Graham’s breakthrough to Lucy Prebble’s The Effect and Lucy Kirkwood’s era defining Chimerica. Plus The Audience with Helen Mirr... more
Welcome to this midweek bonus episode of the WhatsOnStage Podcast! Today, the Donmar Warehouse's artistic director Tim Sheader (fresh from directing Jesus Christ Superstar at The London Palladium) reveals two brand new shows in his 2026 season – a ne... more
Sarah and Alex discuss Simon Stone’s new adaptation of The Orestia, out in the same week as Christopher Nolan’s blockbuster, and another example of the huge appeal of the Greeks. They talk about the cult surrounding Jonathan Larson, the composer of R... more
Producer Francesca Moody has brought some iconic shows to the stage: Fleabag, Baby Reindeer and Weather Girl amongst their number. This year, she's taking three new productions to the Edinburgh Fringe, even working with partners like Global Creatures... more
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Reviews
- Keep up the great work!
Thank you for a brilliant stagey podcast. I’m loving the series on Best Plays of the 21st Century. I saw Jez Butterworth’s Jerusalem at the time, but from very high up in the upper circle (at the Apollo?). I don’t think I appreciated it fully from up there so I’m going to try to find a copy of the text and read it. So thank you for inspiring me to do that. I’ve loved listening to your top picks of plays of the last years since 2000, and enjoyed hearing about the ones I saw and the (many!) I miss... more
Apple Podcasts5Theatrebeast
United Kingdoma month ago - Good
Good podcast, but not enjoying this series on best plays of 21st century - it’s sadly boring. This podcast is at its best when it focuses on current theatre news - Sarah is amazing!
Apple Podcasts5ChasisgreatUnited Kingdom3 months ago - The best British theatre podcast
Each episode offers a rich discussion between two journalists who clearly love and are extremely knowledgeable about theatre. A must listen for all theatre fans
Apple Podcasts5Lukey Likes Games
Germany5 months ago - Great Podcast
I have always enjoyed this podcast. Really interesting topics and discussions around the world of arts and theatre. Keep up the great work!
Apple Podcasts5G4amer6United Kingdom5 months ago - Needs to be better
Alex and Sarah spend most of their time talking about the art of criticism, the industry of being a critic and their jobs, rather than actually reviewing what’s on stage. More straightforward theatre reviews please, fewer internal discussions. It’s too self indulgent.
Apple Podcasts2Gooner N7United Kingdoma year ago
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Chart Rankings
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Apple Podcasts | #235 |  United States/Arts/Performing Arts |
Apple Podcasts | #16 | United Kingdom/Arts/Performing Arts |
Apple Podcasts | #145 | United Kingdom/Arts |
Apple Podcasts | #67 | Germany/Arts/Performing Arts |
Apple Podcasts | #168 |  Italy/Arts/Performing Arts |
Apple Podcasts | #201 |  Australia/Arts/Performing Arts |
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Frequently Asked Questions About The WhatsOnStage Podcast
What is The WhatsOnStage Podcast about and what kind of topics does it cover?
This series offers a steady stream of theatre-focused conversation, mixing current industry news, critical perspectives, and insider interviews. Conversations frequently center on London's theatre scene, including venue programming, touring, funding, awards, and the evolving relationship between critics and creators. A standout trait is the duo's ability to blend sharp analysis with behind-the-scenes anecdotes, bringing in a wide range of guests from actors and directors to producers and artistic directors. The format often weaves in timely industry topics, from new writing and revivals to policy and economics in live performance, making it a valuable listen for practitioners and theatre fans who want depth, context, and practical takeaways... more
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How many listeners does The WhatsOnStage Podcast get?
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Which podcasts are similar to The WhatsOnStage Podcast?
These podcasts share a similar audience with The WhatsOnStage Podcast:
1. MickeyJoTheatre
2. Call To Stage with Amber Davies
3. Front Row
4. This Cultural Life
5. The Rest Is Entertainment
How many episodes of The WhatsOnStage Podcast are there?
The WhatsOnStage Podcast launched 4 years ago and published 252 episodes to date. You can find more information about this podcast including rankings, audience demographics and engagement in our podcast database.
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What guests have appeared on The WhatsOnStage Podcast?
Recent guests on The WhatsOnStage Podcast include:
1. Mary Malone
2. Terique Jarrett
3. Jenny Rainsford
4. Danielle Steers
5. Morgan Gregory
6. Ellie Coote
7. Jack Godfrey
8. Greg Doran
To view more recent guests and their details, simply upgrade your Rephonic account. You'll also get access to a typical guest profile to help you decide if the show is worth pitching.