Episodi

  • Episode 25: Joseph Millson on Phantom, screen acting, and writing Miller Rose Roberts
    Oct 14 2026

    Joseph Millson on Phantom, screen acting, and writing Miller Rose Roberts

    Joseph Millson joins Me'sha Bryan to talk about playing Monsieur André in Phantom of the Opera's 40th anniversary run, the craft of acting on stage and screen, and the creative leap into writing his debut novel, Miller Rose Roberts. It's a candid conversation about staying loose, staying useful, and building a career that can survive the ups and downs of the industry. They discuss performance technique, voice care, flow state, method acting, and why writing has become an essential part of Joseph's creative life. He also shares the story behind Miller Rose Roberts—how a dog walk, an old mailbox, and a fascination with seven-year cycles sparked the book.

    Sound bites

    "There is such magic to musicals."
    "Concentrate on the other bugger."
    "Acting shouldn't be a chore."
    "Acting is just a game."
    "I am enjoying writing more."
    "What a great name for a girl."
    "You can't fake it though."
    "There's too much bullshit around."

    Chapters

    00:00 Meet Joseph Millson
    00:51 Playing Monsieur André in Phantom
    02:08 Voice care and musical theatre
    04:07 The live audience experience
    05:14 Phantom's anniversary filming
    06:30 Stage acting vs. screen acting
    07:56 Getting out of your own head
    10:46 Breath, relaxation, and flow
    11:27 The "robot" phase of screen acting
    13:40 Joseph's one-sentence acting advice
    15:30 Listening as an actor
    17:00 Meditation and performance
    18:44 Lessons from Peak Practice
    21:25 Method acting as play
    23:02 Transforming for The Chameleon
    25:04 Moving from acting into writing
    26:09 Studying screenwriting and making Signs of Life
    27:07 Why actors should write
    28:38 The inspiration for Miller Rose Roberts
    30:16 Miller's story and its seven-year structure
    31:45 Finding personal truths in fiction
    34:32 Writing the novel one chapter at a time
    35:49 Finishing the book through a difficult period
    38:14 The book launch and seeing a reader in public
    39:03 What's next in Joseph's writing career
    39:56 The realities of a long acting career
    41:14 Day jobs and making a life in the arts
    42:42 Staying creative between acting jobs
    45:36 Where to find Joseph and his projects

    @thatjosephmillson
    @millerroserobertsbook
    @signsoflifefilms

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    47 min
  • Episode 24: Steven Puri: From Tech to Film to Sukha
    Aug 11 2026
    In this conversation, Steven Puri shares his unique journey through the entertainment industry, from his early days in digital effects to becoming a senior executive at major studios. He discusses the importance of hard work, collaboration, and the pressures of working on blockbuster films. Puri also delves into the impact of AI on the industry, his transition to a more balanced family life, and the creation of his flow state app, Sukha, designed to help individuals achieve peak productivity. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the design and philosophy behind Sukha, an app aimed at enhancing focus and productivity. They discuss the importance of creating a friendly and supportive environment for users, the significance of achieving a flow state in work, and the challenges of distractions in modern life. The conversation also touches on the role of community in fostering motivation and the personal journey of naming the app, which reflects the essence of happiness and meaningful engagement in one's work. Takeaways Steven Puri's background in tech influenced his film career. The intersection of technology and creativity is crucial in modern filmmaking. Hard work and dedication can lead to recognition in the film industry. Collaboration is key in producing successful films. High-pressure environments require strong diplomatic skills. Celebrating achievements is important, even in a fast-paced industry. The Oscar nomination process involves both expert and popular votes. AI can enhance creativity but also poses challenges to traditional skills. Balancing family life with a demanding career is essential for personal happiness. The flow state can significantly improve productivity and creativity. Sukha is designed to be a friendly reminder to stay focused. Achieving a flow state can feel transcendent and energising. Distractions often come from responding to texts and notifications. Dropping into flow can take time, but practice makes it easier. Regular practice is essential for maintaining flow. Certain personality types, like creators and athletes, benefit more from flow states. Meaningful engagement is crucial for entering a flow state. The name Sukha means happiness in Sanskrit, reflecting the app's purpose. Community support enhances motivation and accountability. Real-life success stories highlight the app's positive impact on users. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Steven Puri's Journey 03:08 From Tech to Film: The Digital Effects Era 05:55 Climbing the Ranks: Hard Work and Recognition 08:59 The Collaborative Nature of Big Films 11:53 Navigating High-Pressure Environments 15:10 The Impact of Success and Celebrating Achievements17:48 Understanding the Oscar Process 20:52 AI in the Entertainment Industry: A Double-Edged Sword 24:01 Balancing Family Life and Career 27:01 The Birth of Sukha: A Flow State App 29:55 Exploring the Flow State Concept 35:43 Designing Sukha: A Friendly Approach to Focus 38:06 The Flow State: Achieving Transcendence in Work39:41 Understanding Distractions: The Battle for Focus41:43 The Practice of Flow: Building a Routine 43:54 Personality Types and Flow: Who Benefits Most? 45:57 Meaningful Engagement: Conditions for Flow 47:30 The Meaning Behind Sukha: A Journey to Happiness 53:57 Building Community: The Power of Connection 01:00:02 Real Stories: The Impact of Sukha on Lives The Sukha Company https://www.thesukha.co/ Me'sha Bryan's Links:Me'sha's website: https://www.meshabryan.com/ Me'sha Bryan Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/meshabryan/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/meshabryan Stage & Screen Link: Youtube - Stage & Screen with Me'sha Bryan https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLsP3kMmCnCwh08q3-4uPFtKLkwy2klA0G Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/stageandscreenpodcast Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/stageandscreenpodcast/
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    1 ora e 4 min
  • Episode 23: Choreographer Mark Smith - How Deaf Men Dancing Is Changing the Theatre Landscape
    May 12 2026

    In this interview, Mark Smith shares his journey as an Olivier nominated choreographer, his creative process, and his inspiring work with Deaf Men Dancing. Discover insights into choreography, directing, and the importance of inclusion in theatre.

    Key Topics
    Deaf choreography and dance Collaboration between deaf and hearing artists
    Theatre directing and choreography process
    Inclusion and diversity in the arts Impact of awards and recognition in theatre

    Sound Bites
    "Preparation before rehearsals is crucial."
    "Theatre projects were on hold due to COVID."
    "Dancers only count from one to eight."

    Chapters
    00:00 Choreographing with Non-Dancers
    03:04 Collaboration in the Rehearsal Room
    06:01 Navigating Director and Choreographer Dynamics
    09:00 The Role of Movement Director vs. Choreographer
    12:01 The Evolution from Rehearsal to Stage
    15:12 Signature Styles and Personal Growth
    18:03 Recognition and Achievements in Choreography
    28:58 The Journey to Acceptance in Theatre
    31:34 Breaking Stereotypes: Being a Deaf Choreographer
    34:57 The Impact of Awards and Recognition
    38:49 The Birth of Deaf Men Dancing
    46:39 Transitioning to Directing: New Horizons
    50:17 Upcoming Projects and Future Aspirations

    Mark Smith's Links
    Mark Smith's Personal Website - https://www.marksmithchoreographer.co.uk/
    Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/marksmithchoreographer/
    Twitter - https://x.com/marksmith_prod

    Deaf Men Dancing (DMD) Links
    Deaf Men Dancing Official Website - https://www.deafmendancing.com/
    Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/deafmendancing
    Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/deafmendancing/

    Me'sha Bryan's Links:
    Me'sha's website: https://www.meshabryan.com/
    Me'sha Bryan Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/meshabryan/
    LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/meshabryan

    Stage & Screen Link:
    Youtube - Stage & Screen with Me'sha Bryan https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLsP3kMmCnCwh08q3-4uPFtKLkwy2klA0G

    Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/stageandscreenpodcast
    Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/stageandscreenpodcast/

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    Non ancora noto
  • Episode 22: Me'sha Goes Solo - I had no iron in my body!!
    Apr 24 2026

    In this episode, Me'sha Bryan shares her personal health struggles and reflections on the importance of self-care. She recaps recent podcast episodes and guests, discussing the challenges faced in the entertainment industry, including identity confusion and misrepresentation. Me'sha emphasises the need for diversity in podcast guests and expresses frustration over the lack of engagement from potential interviewees. The conversation concludes with lighthearted moments and future plans for the podcast.

    Takeaways

    Me'sha discusses her ongoing health issues and the importance of self-care.
    She reflects on the rapid progression of his podcast since its inception.
    The challenges of misrepresentation in the entertainment industry are highlighted.
    Me'sha addresses the confusion between her and another artist, Misha B.
    She emphasises the need for accurate representation in media.
    The difficulty in securing diverse guests for the podcast is a concern.
    Me'sha expresses frustration over the lack of response from potential guests.
    She shares lighthearted moments about baking and personal anecdotes.
    The importance of community support and audience engagement is reiterated.
    Future plans for the podcast include more episodes and guest interviews.

    Sound bites

    "I'm always sick."
    "Do your research."
    "It's just bloody rude."
    "I'm still here people fighting."

    Chapters

    00:00 Health Struggles and Personal Reflections
    03:03 Recap of Recent Episodes and Guests
    05:53 Challenges in the Entertainment Industry
    12:07 Identity Confusion and Misrepresentation
    17:49 Seeking Diversity in Podcast Guests
    19:46 Lighthearted Moments and Future Plans

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    22 min
  • Episode 21: Sign Language in Dance: A Conversation with Mark Smith Part 1
    Mar 31 2026

    This interview with renowned choreographer Mark Smith explores his journey from Royal Ballet training to international stage success, his innovative integration of sign language into dance, and his insights on the importance of sign language and deaf culture in the arts.

    Key topics

    Mark Smith's career trajectory from Royal Ballet to international stages
    The integration of sign language into dance and choreography
    The importance of sign language as a cultural and artistic expression

    Sound bites

    "I feel vibrations through my feet first."
    "I learned BSL quite late, at age four."
    "Sign language was banned for 100 years."

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Mark Smith's Journey
    03:02 Connection with Bird College and Creative Process
    06:05 The Impact of Dance on Communication
    09:12 Exploring the Role of Vibration in Dance
    11:47 Choreography and Collaboration in Musical Theatre
    14:54 Learning British Sign Language and Its Importance
    25:04 Overcoming Communication Barriers
    26:44 Celebrating Deaf Culture Through Dance
    30:30 The Emotional Connection in Performance
    32:33 Evolving Dance Styles and Personal Growth
    36:31 Diverse Dance Training and Its Importance
    40:57 The Journey to Choreography
    43:12 First Steps as a Choreographer
    46:52 Pitching Ideas and Securing Choreography Jobs
    50:07 Navigating the Competitive Dance Industry
    53:41 The Impact of Social Media on Opportunities

    Links:

    Royal Ballet School - https://www.royalballetschool.org.uk/
    London Studio Centre - https://londonstudiocentre.org/
    Graeae Theatre Company - https://graeae.org/
    Deaf Men Dancing - https://deafmendancing.com/
    British Sign Language (BSL) - https://bslzone.co.uk/
    Ramps on the Moon - https://rampsonthemoon.co.uk/

    Stage & Screen with Me'sha Bryan

    Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLsP3kMmCnCwh08q3-4uPFtKLkwy2klA0G

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stageandscreenpodcast/?hl=en

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stageandscreenpodcast/

    Me'sha's LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/meshabryan/?originalSubdomain=uk

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    55 min
  • Episode 20: Lindsay Bonaccorsi - Part 2 - Visibility: Self-Promotion in the Creative Arts
    Mar 10 2026

    This conversation delves into the intricate world of costume design, exploring the casting process, the importance of colour inspiration, and the challenges of period costuming. Lindsay shares personal experiences, including career milestones, the impact of motherhood on her professional journey, and the significance of networking and mentorship in the industry. The discussion highlights the creative process behind wardrobe design and the collaborative nature of bringing characters to life on screen. Me'sha and Lindsay discuss the challenges and importance of self-promotion in the creative industry, particularly for freelancers. They emphasise the need for visibility and authenticity in social media, the nostalgia of working in familiar places, and the aspirations for future creative projects. Mentorship and sharing knowledge are highlighted as vital components of growth in the industry. The conversation also touches on the balance between work and personal life, the significance of taking downtime for creativity, and reflections on awards and recognition in their careers.

    Lindsay's Links:

    Website: https://www.lindsaybonaccorsi.com/

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lindsaybonaccorsicostume/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindsay-bonaccorsi-53a2ba1a/

    Agent: https://saraputt.co.uk/client/lindsay-bonaccorsi/

    Stage & Screen with Me'sha Bryan

    Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLsP3kMmCnCwh08q3-4uPFtKLkwy2klA0G

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stageandscreenpodcast/?hl=en

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stageandscreenpodcast/

    Me'sha's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meshabryan/?originalSubdomain=uk

    Takeaways

    The casting process often starts with just a headshot.
    Self-tapes can provide valuable insights into an actor's interpretation of a character.
    Early conversations with actors about their preferences can enhance the design process.
    Color inspiration can come from the environment and setting of the story.
    Creating a coherent look for a series involves collaboration with production designers.
    Period costuming benefits from historical references but presents unique challenges.
    Winning awards can validate a designer's creative efforts and open new opportunities.
    Balancing motherhood and a career in costume design can be challenging but rewarding.
    Networking within the industry is crucial for career growth and opportunities.
    Mentorship programs can provide valuable guidance and support for mid-career professionals. Self-promotion can feel vulgar, but it's necessary.
    Having strong cheerleaders can propel you forward.
    Visibility is crucial for freelancers in the creative industry.
    Authenticity in social media is important for connection.
    Nostalgia for familiar places can enhance creativity.
    Creative aspirations drive the desire for new projects.
    Mentorship is a valuable way to share knowledge.
    Taking downtime is essential for creative rejuvenation.
    Balancing work and personal life is a constant challenge.
    Awards can be unexpected but are meaningful milestones.

    Chapters

    00:00 Casting Insights: Understanding the Actor's Presentation
    02:50 Color Inspiration: Crafting Character Through Wardrobe
    05:56 The Art of Period Costuming: Balancing History and Creativity
    09:08 Career Milestones: From Awards to Motherhood
    12:08 Networking and Community: The Importance of Industry Connections
    15:02 Mentorship and Growth: Navigating Mid-Career Challenges
    23:07 Embracing Self-Promotion
    25:08 The Importance of Visibility in Freelancing
    26:23 Nostalgia and Connection to Place
    28:43 Creative Aspirations and Future Projects
    30:10 Mentorship and Sharing Knowledge
    32:55 The Value of Creativity and Downtime
    35:08 Balancing Work and Personal Life
    39:00 Reflections on Awards and Recognition

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    45 min
  • Episode 19: Lindsay Bonaccorsi - Part 1 - The Art of Award Winning Costume Design
    Feb 24 2026
    In this episode Me'sha talks to costume designer Lindsay Bonaccorsi as she shares her journey from childhood creativity to becoming a BAFTA Cymru award-winning designer. She discusses her early inspirations, the importance of education, and how she navigated the challenges of the industry, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Lindsay also highlights her creative ventures during lockdown, her passion for drawing, and the collaborative nature of costume design, emphasising the balance between character authenticity and actor comfort while managing budgets and resources effectively. Me'sha and Lindsay delve into the multifaceted world of costume design, exploring the adaptability required in the role, the various responsibilities within costume departments, and the journey of progressing through different roles in the industry. They discuss the importance of building relationships on set, the meticulous care and maintenance of costumes, and the learning experiences that come from mistakes. Additionally, they touch on the collaborative nature of the creative process and the significance of feedback in costume design. Lindsay's Links: Website: https://www.lindsaybonaccorsi.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lindsaybonaccorsicostume/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindsay-bonaccorsi-53a2ba1a/ Agent: https://saraputt.co.uk/client/lindsay-bonaccorsi/ Stage & Screen with Me'sha Bryan Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLsP3kMmCnCwh08q3-4uPFtKLkwy2klA0G Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stageandscreenpodcast/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stageandscreenpodcast/ Me'sha's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meshabryan/?originalSubdomain=uk Takeaways: Lindsay's childhood was filled with creative dress-up experiences. Her mother played a significant role in nurturing her creativity. Education at the Royal Welsh College was pivotal for her career. The COVID-19 pandemic posed significant challenges for the creative industry. Lindsay launched a kids' t-shirt business during lockdown. Drawing is a fundamental passion for Lindsay and her children. Collaboration with actors is crucial in costume design. Budget constraints require resourcefulness in costume creation. Costume design involves balancing character needs with actor comfort. The industry is constantly evolving, requiring adaptability. Adaptability is crucial in costume design. Resourcefulness can lead to creative solutions. Understanding garment construction enhances design skills. Body shapes influence costume choices. Transformations of actors can be astonishing. Costume departments have diverse roles and responsibilities. Building rapport with actors is essential. The costume designer community is supportive. Mistakes are valuable learning experiences. Feedback is vital in the creative process. Sound bites: "It was just in your bones, I think." "It's a bit of a jigsaw puzzle." "Every budget is different." "It's a supportive community." "Every day's a school day." "You learn something on every job." Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Lindsay Bonaccorsi 02:37 Early Inspirations and Childhood Creativity 08:14 Education and Career Beginnings 11:07 Navigating the Industry Post-COVID 12:56 Creative Ventures During Lockdown 14:25 The Art of Costume Design 19:42 Collaboration and Flexibility in Costume Design 21:33 Balancing Character and Actor Comfort 25:00 Budgeting and Resourcefulness in Costume Design 27:05 The Art of Adaptability in Costume Design 30:03 Roles and Responsibilities in Costume Departments 36:08 Journey Through the Ranks of Costume Design 39:05 Building Relationships on Set 45:11 Behind the Scenes: Costume Maintenance and Care 49:41 Learning from Experience: Mistakes and Growth 51:16 Navigating Creative Feedback and Approval Processes
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    55 min
  • Episode 18: Celebrating the best moments from the first 6 months
    Feb 13 2026

    In this episode of Stage and Screen, Me'sha Bryan celebrates six months of the show with a reflection on past interviews and experiences. This video highlights some of the best moments from the podcast's first six months on air.

    Guests include,

    Mike Nolan: 80s Pop Icon:
    Mark Buckley: Monitor Engineer to the stars
    Jon Xue Zhang: Actor, Martial Artist and Ram Man from The Master of the Universe Movie
    Lee Hall: Writer of Billy Elliot, Rocketman and War Horse
    Cheryl Baker: 80's pop Legend and TV Presenter
    Darren Ashford: Session Drummer & Educator

    Takeaways

    Celebrating six months of Stage and Screen with reflections. The joy of performing and receiving audience appreciation. Creating music can lead to unexpected and joyous moments. Injuries on set are common and often unnoticed during filming. Working with difficult personalities is part of the industry. Professionalism can shine through even in challenging situations. The importance of collaboration in creative projects. Memorable moments can come from unexpected performances. The journey of acceptance in a professional environment takes time. Every experience contributes to personal and professional growth. Chapters 00:00 Celebrating Six Months of Stage and Screen 00:18 Me'sha on the first 6 months! 02:01 Cheryl Baker from Bucks Fizz 02:43 Writer Lee Hall 03:15 Composer John Altman 04:16 Session singer Emer McParland 04:41 Session drummer Darren Ashford 05:04 Actor Jon Xue Zhang 05:33 Monitor Engineer Mark Buckley 06:20 80s Pop icon Mike Nolan

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    8 min