Performers who Pivot

Health, Creativity, and Growth with Michelle Brooks

Michelle Brooks is a Black British Writer and a graduate of the prestigious ROSE BRUFORD acting programme. Michelle's journey in the industry is nothing short of remarkable.With a background that includes stints at BBC Entertainment in Salford and BBC Promotions in London, Michelle honed her comedic prowess under the guidance of luminaries like Logan Murray, Funny Women, Amused Moose, and Comedy 5050. Her dedication to her craft paid off in 2019 when she collaborated with Comedian Simon Watt and Imperial College to create and perform a science-based stand-up set titled "BAME" for the LOL Lab.2020 Michelle's talents were recognised when her pilot sitcom, "SAFE," was shortlisted among 235 entries in the SCREENSKILLS-funded TellherVision, Comedy50:50, and HATTRICK Sitcom Competition. Her one-woman stand-up show, "BASE STATION," was a hit at the 2021 Camden Fringe, showcasing her incredible comedic prowess. But Michelle's talents aren't confined to the stage. She's a skilled writer and presenter, known for her insightful documentaries like "BRIDES AND PREJUDICE" in 2010, which delved into the world of Black Singles Dating, and "WHY SHOULD I GET MARRIED?" in 2011, a candid exploration of the wedding industry.In 2022, Michelle embarked on a new chapter, collaborating with DISNEY and DREAMWORKS SKG story consultant Pilar Alessandra to craft her first feature film. Simultaneously, she's contributing her talents to the NATIONAL TRUST, teaching filmmaking, and directing the 2023 Documentary on Sir Edwyn Lutyens and his remarkable architectural legacy for the ICAA in New York.Michelle Brooks is a creative force to be reckoned with, breaking barriers and making waves in the entertainment world. Tune in as she shares her unique journey and insights on The Performers who Pivot Podcast. Follow Michelle on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/showpatrol.tv] and her blog account here [https://www.instagram.com/michbrookstv] Grace Viora is the host of The Performers who Pivot podcast. She is an actor, writer and entrepreneur. Grace started her award-winning company DramEd to enrich children through the arts in education. Grace shares her blueprint and brand with performers through DramEd licenses to help them build a flexible business that benefits from their skillset in the arts—allowing them the freedom to navigate their own performing arts career. ⁠Follow Performers who Pivot on Instagram ⁠ [https://www.intstagram.com/performerswhopivot] ⁠Follow Performers who Pivot on Twitter⁠ [https://www.twitter.com/performerspivot] ⁠Follow DramEd on Instagram  [https://www.intstagram.com/drameduk]

Clear Space, Clear Mind: Marsha Carrington’s Creative Pivot from Performer to Stylist

In this inspiring episode of Performers Who Pivot, Grace chats with the multi-talented Marsha Carrington — founder of Pinnacle Performing Arts and Styled by MJC. From dancing on Top of the Pops to helping people style and organise their homes, Marsha shares how she’s gracefully pivoted her performance career into two thriving creative businesses. She opens up about: - Overcoming shyness and building confidence- Healing from personal loss and embracing spirituality - The power of trusting your gut and not chasing money- Why “clear space, clear mind” is more than just a mantra Plus, she talks about being too short for a major U2 tour (yes, really) and how a cancelled audition turned out to be divine redirection. ⚠️ Audio note: There’s a little sound interference around 26 minutes in — it clears up after 2-minutes, so stick with it. This convo is well worth it! Guest: Marsha Carrington https://www.instagram.com/@styledby_mjc [https://www.instagram.com/@styledby_mjc] https://www.instagram.com/@pinnacle_performing_arts [https://www.instagram.com/@pinnacle_performing_arts] https://www.facebook.com/share/1AZJjjKZwN/ [https://www.facebook.com/share/1AZJjjKZwN/] Host: Grace Viora https://www.instagram.com/performerswhopivot [https://www.instagram.com/performerswhopivot] https://www.instagram.com/itsgraceviora [https://www.instagram.com/itsgraceviora] https://www.instagram.com/dramed_uk [https://www.instagram.com/dramed_uk]

Just Say Yes with Tammie Webster

Just Say Yes with Tammie Webster In this episode of The Performers Who Pivot Podcast, we’re joined by Tammie Webster, a data analytics expert by day and a passionate performer alongside her corporate career. Tammie discovered acting in her 30s after a challenging life experience and has since embraced it as a creative outlet. Tammie shares how saying “yes” to new experiences has opened doors to acting, action combat, and writing. Her story highlights the power of balancing a thriving professional career with creative passions and the joy that comes from stepping out of your comfort zone. Episode Highlights: * How Tammie discovered acting as an adult and built it into her life alongside her corporate role. * The philosophy of saying “yes” to new experiences and how it fuels personal growth. * Balancing a corporate career with creative passions. * Encouraging adults to explore acting as a hobby or career enhancement. Resources Mentioned: * Tammie’s passion for improv and its applications in her professional life. Books Discussed: * Her Majesty’s Royal Coven by Juno Dawson * The Long Way to a Small, Angry Planet by Becky Chambers Links to Learn More: * Learn about DramEd Licensing [www.dramedlicensing.com] * Drama Games for Your Classroom Connect with Tammie: * LinkedIn Profile [https://uk.linkedin.com/in/tammie-webster-172a5285]

Breaking Glass Ceilings with Arlo Carter

Welcome to 'The Performers Who Pivot Podcast,' where we celebrate incredible journeys of transformation and creativity. I'm Grace Viora, your host, and I'm thrilled to introduce Arlo Carter to this episode. Arlo Carter hails from a council estate in the picturesque Shires of the West Country in England. In 2020, the National Youth Film Academy honoured him with the title of Emerging Brit. His acting credits include a role as Alan Fisher in ITV's Doc Martin and a recent lead role as Logan in Joachim Hedén's The Last Breath, alongside the late Julian Sands. Having received training both in the United States and in London, Arlo pursued his education at The Guildhall School of Music & Drama. Alongside his studies, he has also ventured into producing his own short films and made his debut performance as Lucas in 'Misunderstood' by Nutty Traxx Films. Arlo's diverse skill set extends beyond acting; he is proficient in scuba diving and riding, facilitating his work across Europe, including shoots in Belgium, Malta, and Poland. Currently, Arlo is attached as the lead in the upcoming Bez Glowy feature 'My Lovely Baboon,' slated to commence filming in late 2024 in Poland. Follow Arlo on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/arlocarter_rocketboy?igsh=dTB3dDM3dnZicDA=] Follow Performers who Pivot on Instagram ⁠⁠ [https://www.intstagram.com/performerswhopivot] ⁠⁠Follow DramEd on Instagram  [https://www.intstagram.com/drameduk]

From the Stage to the Page: Drama, Dyslexia and Written Word with Dyonne Josiah

Welcome to 'The Performers Who Pivot Podcast,' where we celebrate incredible journeys of transformation and creativity. I'm Grace Viora, your host, and I'm thrilled to introduce Dyonne Antonette Josiah, a talented creator who started her artistic journey nearly two decades ago. Dyonne, once a performer, has gracefully pivoted her talents towards writing children's books. Hailing from Islington, North London, Dyonne discovered her passion for storytelling early on. Struggling with dyslexia at 16, she turned her unique perspective into a career, crafting stories that empower young minds and bridge gaps in understanding. Her journey led her to create 'The Adventures of Canary Ryland—How do you get a baby?'—a heartwarming tale that eases conversations about a sensitive subject. Her journey from performer to author resonates deeply with our podcast's theme of performers who pivot. Join us as we dive into Dyonne's inspiring narrative. Grace Viora is the host of The Performers Who Pivot podcast. She is an actor, writer and entrepreneur. Grace started her award-winning company DramEd to enrich children through the arts in education. Grace shares her blueprint and brand with performers through DramEd licenses to help them build a flexible business that benefits from their skillset in the arts—allowing them the freedom to navigate their own performing arts career. ⁠Follow Performers who Pivot on Instagram ⁠ [https://www.intstagram.com/performerswhopivot] ⁠Follow Performers who Pivot on Twitter⁠ [https://www.twitter.com/performerspivot] ⁠Follow DramEd on Instagram  [https://www.intstagram.com/drameduk]