Gez Addictive on grassroots music in Derby & the East Midlands.

Gez Addictive on grassroots music in Derby & the East Midlands.

Do you remember The Struts playing at the back of The Victoria Inn pub? This man does. If you’re part of Derby’s grassroots music scene, chances are you’ve already heard of Gez Addictive. As the founder of Derby-based not-for-profit CICs AlphaPro Creative [https://alphaprocreative.co.uk/] and FUZZ Music Services [https://fuzzmusic.co.uk/], Gez has spent years helping independent artists develop the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to succeed in the music industry across the East Midlands and the UK. In this episode, Kirsty sits down with Gez to explore what new and emerging music artists really need when starting out in today’s industry. From building a strong personal brand to creating professional logos, social media content and essential artist asset packs, Gez shares practical advice for musicians looking to grow their audience and take their music career further. Whether you’re an independent performer, singer-songwriter, band member, or creative entrepreneur this episode is packed with valuable insights into music branding, artist development, and navigating the UK independent music scene especially as we enter the music festival season here in the UK. 📸 Photo credit: Jason Bridges

Chronic Insanity is bringing Apple of Discord back to Nottingham this summer.

Step into a fully immersive theatre experience with Apple of Discord, the latest production from Nottingham’s award-winning theatre company, Chronic Insanity. In this podcast episode, I speak with Joe Strickland and explore how this ambitious interactive show transforms every room into part of the story, allowing audiences to piece together a narrative inspired by the legendary myth that sparked the Trojan War. Set across three atmospheric floors of the stunning Grade II listed People’s Hall — featuring ornate staircases, historic cellars, and mysterious subterranean caves — Apple of Discord delivers a unique immersive theatre experience where divine drama unfolds all around you. Discover what makes this production one of the must-see live events of the summer, running from 20–24 July, with tickets on sale now. [https://www.universe.com/events/apple-of-discord-tickets-YKQX9G]

Fawlty Towers is coming to the Theatre Royal, Nottingham

Fans of the classic British sitcom Fawlty Towers are in for a nostalgic treat as the beloved comedy arrives at the Theatre Royal Nottingham this June. Celebrating fifty years since Basil and Sybil Fawlty first appeared on British television screens, the brand-new live stage adaptation brings together three iconic episodes — “The Inspectors,” “Communication Problems,” and “The Germans” — into one hilarious production with a fresh new ending. Starring Danny Bayne, known for his work on Hollyoaks, alongside Mia Austin, recognised from Call the Midwife and Ludwig, the touring production promises audiences a faithful yet refreshed take on one of Britain’s most iconic sitcoms. During an exclusive interview, Danny and Mia shared behind-the-scenes stories from their demanding ten-month UK tour, including unforgettable on-stage mishaps, practical jokes among cast members, and the challenges of bringing such legendary characters to life on stage. The pair also reflected on the importance of preparation and confidence, drawing comparisons between preparing for performances, auditions, and the pressures students face during exam season. The live production of Fawlty Towers runs at the Theatre Royal Nottingham from 2–6 June and is suitable for audiences aged 8 and above. Tickets are available now through the official Theatre Royal & Concert Hall website. [trch.co.uk]

Classical Imperial Ballet® bringing Christmas favourite to Derby.

Have you ever wondered what it really takes to bring a ballet or opera tour to life? I chat with Alexej Ignatow about his role as Producer for his company, the Imperial Classical Ballet. From months of planning and complex logistics to marketing, audience engagement, and flawless execution — we’re uncovering the hidden work that makes every performance possible. In this episode, I discuss, with Alexej, the logistics of putting together a tour and how companies are making ballet and opera more accessible to new generations of audiences across the UK. Following multiple sold-out UK tours and an overwhelmingly warm reception from audiences nationwide, Imperial Classical Ballet are proudly bringing The Nutcracker, along with a live orchestra, to Vaillant Live on the 7th November 2026. Tickets are onsale now and can be purchased from the Vaillant Live website. [https://vaillantlive.co.uk/event/the-nutcracker/139/]

Barnum the Musical is heading to Nottingham Playhouse

Many people today recognise P. T. Barnum thanks to the hit movie The Greatest Showman, but the acclaimed stage production Barnum the Musical [https://www.kenwright.com/productions/barnum-2026-uk-tour/] explores far more than the world of the circus. The long-running musical takes audiences on a deeper journey through Barnum’s life, revealing his political ambitions, personal struggles, and the powerful influence of his wife, Charity Barnum. This week, I’m joined by Monique Young [https://www.instagram.com/moniquebyoung/?__d=1%252F%253Fhidemenu%253Dtrue], who stars as Charity Barnum, to discuss the heart behind the production and the woman determined to keep Phineas Barnum grounded amidst fame and spectacle. We also dive into the extraordinary talent required to bring the show to life, from juggling and fire breathing to the high-energy choreography audiences are loving. With exam season underway, Monique also shares her top advice for aspiring performers and those hoping to break into the theatre industry. Tickets for Barnum the Musical are on sale now as the production tours the UK to rave 4 and 5-star reviews, featuring choreography by Oti Mabuse and music by Cy Coleman. Theatre fans in the East Midlands can book tickets through the Nottingham Playhouse website [https://nottinghamplayhouse.co.uk/events/barnum/].