Arts & Toast with Kirsty Corbett
What really goes on behind the scenes of theatre, museums and live performance in the East Midlands?An East Midlands Arts Podcast with Kirsty Corbett.Join Kirsty for relaxed chats with theatre-makers, museum curators, musicians and artists shaping culture across the East Midlands.From theatre and dance to exhibitions and live music, each episode celebrates the people and ideas bringing the region’s arts and culture community to life.Put the kettle on and take a front-row seat to the East Midlands arts scene.If you like a theatre podcast, creative podcast, entertainment podcast or just a general artsy podcast then you have come to the right place.
Subscribe to this podcast
Episodes
-
Multi-award winning actor, Debs Newbold, to bring Ireland’s legendary Pirate Queen to Beeston.
Thursday, 8 October 2026
Kirsty Corbett talks to storyteller Debs Newbold about the extraordinary life of Grace O’Malley (Gráinne Mhaol), a 16th Century Irish clan chief, political rebel and legendary pirate queen. Debs has spent eight years bringing Gráinne’s story to life through performance, and her current tour is already selling out venues across the UK. The pair discuss the woman behind the legend, why her story has been overlooked for so long and how storytelling can bring history vividly to life. For Debs, though, telling Granuaile’s story is about much more than revisiting history. It is about challenging ...
-
Theatre, Radical Empathy & Karuna Productions | Underneath the Lintel is coming to Nottingham.
Thursday, 8 October 2026
In this episode of Arts & Toast, Kirsty Corbett talks to Chris Sims, director of Karuna Productions, about the power of theatre to create empathy, compassion and a deeper understanding of one another alongside his production company's debut show at Nottingham Arts Theatre from 20 - 24 October 2026.Chris discusses Karuna Productions’ Nottingham roots, its commitment to radical empathy, and the journey behind its production of Underneath the Lintel written by Glen Berger. It's a thought-provoking and often humorous one-woman play exploring identity, existence, connection and what it means to...
-
New Art Exchange’s VOICE Committee Selects Quilla Constance for Nottingham Exhibition
Wednesday, 7 October 2026
In this episode of the Arts & Toast podcast, Kirsty Corbett talks to acclaimed British-Jamaican multidisciplinary artist Quilla Constance (QC) about her creative journey, performance art and her most ambitious exhibition to date, Activating Intersections, at New Art Exchange in Nottingham.Opening on 10 October 2026, Activating Intersections brings together monumental oil paintings, costume, video and live performance. Selected by New Art Exchange’s pioneering VOICE committee, the exhibition explores identity, cultural stereotypes, power, activism and participation, blurring the boundaries b...
-
Harris Beattie: Behind the Scenes of Northern Ballet’s Cinderella at Nottingham Theatre Royal
Tuesday, 6 October 2026
In this episode of the Arts & Toast Podcast, Kirsty Corbett chats to Northern Ballet soloist Harris Beattie about his journey from Aberdeen and Billy Elliot to becoming one of the company’s leading dancers, and his latest role as Jack in Michael Pink’s Cinderella as they prepare to open their UK premier at Nottingham Theatre Royal on 23 October 2026.Harris talks candidly about his career, training and the importance of finding his own style as a performer, as well as his passion for storytelling through dance and creating believable characters on stage. With a background spanning ballet, co...
-
Healing Through Harmony: The Power of Music in Healthcare at Derby & Burton Hospitals.
Tuesday, 6 October 2026
In this episode, we explore the powerful role of music, creativity and the arts in healthcare across the East Midlands with Rosie Rutherford, lead of the music programme at Air Arts.Rosie shares her experiences of bringing live music and creative activity into clinical environments, and explains how the arts can make a meaningful difference to patients, families and healthcare staff. The conversation explores the growing importance of NHS staff wellbeing, including how music can help colleagues process challenging experiences, build connections and find moments of support within the pressur...
-
Derby Feste 2026
Saturday, 26 September 2026
Celebrating Community at Derby FesteJoin us in Derby City Centre as we explore the creativity, community and culture of Derby Feste — a vibrant, free festival bringing live performance and entertainment to audiences of all ages.We hear from Cllr Gurkiran Kaur and street artists & performers, including Simple Cypher & Sur Mesure, about the importance of accessible arts, outdoor performance and community events as well as Event Organiser Phil Hargreaves. We also discover how Derby Feste supports the city centre and local businesses.A celebration of creativity, connection and community — disco...
-
The Art of Movement: Danny Reubens on Dance, Design & Performance with Matthew Bourne's The Car Man
Wednesday, 23 September 2026
Danny Reubens on Dance, Matthew Bourne’s New Adventures, Arts Education & Performing at the Royal Albert HallIn this episode, we’re joined by dancer and performer Danny Reubens for an insightful conversation about dance, performance, storytelling and life as a professional dancer. Danny talks about his career in the performing arts, his work with Matthew Bourne’s New Adventures, performing in Car Man, and what it’s really like to tour with one of the UK’s leading contemporary dance companies.Danny shares his experiences of performing at the Royal Albert Hall, working as part of major dance ...
-
ACE supported award winning comedy drama on PMDD coming to Nottingham Playhouse
Sunday, 20 September 2026
Tell Me Where It Hurts – Live at Nottingham PlayhouseAward-winning theatre company Teepee Productions brings Tell Me Where It Hurts to Nottingham Playhouse on 15 October.Written by actor, writer and producer Tayla Kenyon, Kirsty sat down to find out about this powerful comedy-drama which shines a vital spotlight on Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD). Balancing humour, heart and hard truths Kenyon explores what happens when women’s pain and mental health experiences are too often dismissed.The story follows Chrissy, a dedicated drama teacher navigating life, work and relationships while ...
-
Behind the Laughter: Crafting Comedy the comedy for 39 Steps at Derby Theatre.
Thursday, 17 September 2026
In this interview, we explore the delightful chaos of theatre production, where creativity meets absurdity. Three members of the cast, James Keningdale, Katherine Perkins & Tom Mitchell, share their experiences from rehearsals filled with laughter and unexpected moments, all while preparing for their newest show under the direction of Cal McCrystal.This interview is a behind-the-scenes look reveals the heart of theatrical comedy, where every rehearsal is an adventure filled with creativity and camaraderie. James, Kat and Tom debate how many characters there actually are, with numbers rangin...
-
Behind the Scenes of Buxton Opera House's Pantomime with Catherine Pugh & Jamie Davis-Fletcher
Tuesday, 15 September 2026
Join Kirsty as she explores the joy, pranks and spirit of panto season with Buxton Opera House’s panto stars Catherine Pugh & Jamie Davis-Fletcher. The three share their insights on the enchanting world of pantomime, revealing the joy, laughter, and occasional chaos that come with it. The conversation takes a hilarious turn as they share stories of onstage mishaps. From unexpected ad-libs to costume malfunctions,the unpredictability of live performances brings an element of surprise that keeps everyone on their toes. Catherine recalls a particularly funny moment when she accidentally burped...
-
ABBA Voyage star coming to Repton's 400 Hall Theatre, this Autumn
Wednesday, 2 September 2026
Kara-Ami McCreanor brings first-hand experience of the ABBA phenomenon to Repton’s 400 Hall Theatre on Sunday 27 September, as part of Mark Robert Petty Presents… The West End Sings… The Music of ABBA.Having joined ABBA Voyage in 2024, Kara-Ami has spent the past two years performing ABBA’s iconic songs to audiences from around the world. She now brings that experience to this special live celebration, performing alongside fellow West End talents Georgia Lennon, Christopher Howell and Lewis Asquith, accompanied by a live band.The concert promises everything audiences love about ABBA — power...
-
Annie's UK tour is heading for Nottingham!
Thursday, 27 August 2026
Alex Bourne talks to Kirsty Corbett of Arts & Toast Podcast about his enduring love of musical theatre, his career across major productions including Chicago, We Will Rock You and Mamma Mia, and the joy of performing live eight shows a week. Now appearing in Annie, Alex reflects on the camaraderie of touring, his long-standing friendship and on-stage chemistry with Claire Sweeney, and the fresh energy brought by a new generation of performers. The conversation also explores Alex's personal approach to life on the road, including his newfound commitment to fitness and wellbeing. Having lost ...
-
Darley Park Weekender: Meet Derby's upcoming bands
Monday, 24 August 2026
Were you at this weekend's Darley Park weekender? Full of Derby based love, iconic artists such as JLS, Katrina from Katrina & The Waves & Billy Ocean joined the people of Derby for a weekend of live music. Kirsty Corbett of Arts & Toast was able to catch up with two Derby based bands who were supporting this weekend's lineup including "Cassette Roulette" & "Public Eye" to find out how they were finding a weekend on home turf!
-
Bob Monkhouse's Legacy Through Comedy: Simon
Cartwright's Journey.
Wednesday, 19 August 2026
Whilst in the middle of the UK Tour of "The Last Laugh" Simon Cartwright discusses his role as Bob Monkhouse with Arts & Toast's Kirsty Corbett. Simon chats about the profound influence Bob Monkhouse had on his journey into comedy, from first seeing him as a child to meeting him professionally and eventually creating a one-person play celebrating his life and work. The interview explores mentorship, the craft of comedy, the enduring appeal of classic comedians and the importance of introducing their work to younger generations.The show is due to hit Nottingham's Theatre Royal from 1 Septemb...
-
Derby Market Hall is using the Arts to increase footfall
Thursday, 13 August 2026
Kirsty Corbett from the Arts & Toast podcast joins David Turner from Derby Uncovered to discuss lif & events at Derby Market Hall, where independent traders are working together to create events, attract visitors and build a stronger market community. They chat about upcoming events, the importance of supporting independent businesses and the challenges created by changes to footfall and the surrounding retail landscape.The conversation explores how Derby Market Hall is developing as a hub for independent businesses and community events. David talks about the work Derby Uncovered is doing ...
-
Dea Matrona: Becoming self produced, authentic & successful artists: YNot Series 2026
Monday, 3 August 2026
Kirsty from Arts & Toast chats with Dea Matrona, the Belfast-based female duo making their mark on the music scene as self-producing, authentic and successful artists.In this honest conversation, they talk about their journey as musicians, the freedom and challenges of self-producing their own music, and why staying true to themselves is so important as artists. They also share some of their favourite gigs and live music memories, as well as exploring the cathartic nature of music and what it means to have music as a creative outlet, both personally and professionally.From Belfast to the wi...
-
Martyn Walsh from Inspiral Carpets on 37 years of recording & performing: YNot Series 2026
Monday, 3 August 2026
Kirsty from Arts & Toast chats with Martyn Walsh about an incredible 37 years with Inspiral Carpets, reflecting on the band’s journey, the music industry and everything that has changed along the way.Martyn shares his thoughts on how the music industry has evolved, from the early days of Inspiral Carpets to the very different landscape musicians navigate today. But despite all the changes, one thing remains the same: grit, determination and hard work can still take you a long way.It’s a fascinating conversation about music, longevity, the Manchester music scene, perseverance and what it tak...
-
Tom from the Lottery Winners on music as his expression: YNot Series 2026
Monday, 3 August 2026
🎙️ NEW PODCAST: Tom from The Lottery Winners on music, ADHD, Robbie Williams & holding it in! 😂Kirsty from Arts & Toast chats with Tom from The Lottery Winners about the freedom music gives him — and how stepping onto a stage allows him to unmask from ADHD, let go of expectations and simply be himself. They also dive into the band’s exciting upcoming support dates with Robbie Williams in Australia, what it’s like to be heading out on such a huge tour, and the slightly less glamorous reality of international touring… Because apparently, Tom is going to have to hold onto a wee until December....
-
Beans on Toast on why he loves the East Midlands & his upcoming gigs in Nottingham: YNot Series 2026
Sunday, 2 August 2026
🎙️ New Podcast Interview: Beans on ToastWe caught up with Beans on Toast for a brilliant conversation about his love of Derbyshire, the places that inspire him, life on the road, and what keeps him writing and performing after all these years.Beans also talks about his upcoming live gig at Nottingham Arboretum — a unique outdoor setting for what promises to be a fantastic summer show. 🌳🎶If you’re a fan of Beans on Toast, folk music, live gigs, Derbyshire, Nottingham music or discovering great artists and stories from the Midlands, this is one to listen to.🎧 Listen to the full interview now ...
-
Ash's Tim Wheeler on the importance of Grassroots musicians at UK music Festivals: YNot Series 2026
Sunday, 2 August 2026
🎸 Tim Wheeler from Ash talks music, festivals & the future of the industry!At Y Not Festival in Derbyshire, we chat with Ash frontman Tim Wheeler about navigating the changing music industry, building a successful career as a musician, and why artists need to adapt to an evolving industry.Tim also explains why grassroots musicians need more support at UK music festivals and why giving emerging artists opportunities is vital for the future of live music.🎙️ In this episode:• The changing music industry• Building a career in music• Grassroots musicians• UK music festivals• Emerging artists• As...
-
From Grassroots Gigs to Comedy Folk Legends: Lancashire Hotpots
Tuesday, 28 July 2026
Comedy folk favourites the Lancashire Hotpots join host Kirsty Corbett on the latest episode of Arts & Toast, as band members Dickie Ticker and Kenny Body reflect on almost 20 years of making audiences laugh through music.From playing to rooms filled with family and friends to discovering that complete strangers were buying tickets to see them, the pair share the highs, challenges and memorable moments of building one of the UK's best-loved independent comedy folk acts. They also reveal the inspiration behind their unique songwriting, explaining how everyday observations, relatable experien...
-
Outdoor Opera House Festival 2026 | Buxton, Derbyshire
Tuesday, 28 July 2026
Looking for the best summer festivals in Derbyshire or searching for unique things to do in Buxton and the Peak District this summer? In this episode, I’m joined by Anna Brentzen, Drama Facilitator at Buxton Opera House, to explore the Outdoor Opera House Festival 2026, taking place from 31st July to 3rd August 2026 in the stunning surroundings of Grinlow Woods and Poole’s Cavern.Anna shares how this extraordinary outdoor festival brings together opera, theatre, live music, drama workshops, arts and crafts, immersive performances, and community arts in one of the most beautiful locations in...
-
Glowworm Festival Turns 10: Richard Walpole on Building One of the UK's Leading Family Festivals
Thursday, 23 July 2026
Gloworm Festival celebrates its 10th anniversary in 2026, marking a decade of creating affordable, unforgettable family experiences in the heart of the East Midlands. In this episode, Festival Director Richard Walpole shares the inspiring story behind one of the UK's most successful family festivals, revealing how a family-first approach has helped Gloworm thrive while many other events have struggled.Ahead of this year's festival at Thoresby Park in Nottinghamshire (7–9 August 2026), Richard talks about the realities of organising a large-scale event, the challenges and triumphs of growing...
-
Susan Earnshaw on 19 Years of Nottingham's Thriller Season
Monday, 20 July 2026
🎭 Murder, mystery... and plenty of laughs? 👀What happens when you mix a classic thriller with sharp comedy? According to actress Susan Earnshaw, you get a theatre experience that keeps audiences guessing—and laughing—from start to finish.🎙️ In our latest podcast episode, Susan takes us behind the scenes of the Nottingham Thriller Season, sharing:✨ Why comedy thrillers are becoming so popular🎭 What makes the weekly rep season so unique🙌 How younger audiences are rediscovering the magic of live theatre🔎 Why you'll never look at a murder mystery the same way again!"If you've never been to the ...
-
Cbeebies star Evie Pickerill to join Morgan Brind & cast at Derby Live pantomime!
Friday, 17 July 2026
Derby's Cinderella Pantomime Launches for 2026: Everything You Need to KnowThe countdown to Christmas has officially begun as Derby LIVE and Little Wolf Entertainment launch their spectacular 2026 pantomime, Cinderella, promising another unforgettable festive season at Derby Arena.In this episode, we take a closer look at everything audiences can expect from this year's magical family pantomime. From dazzling costumes and spectacular scenery to laugh-out-loud comedy, incredible musical numbers and plenty of audience participation, Cinderella is set to continue Derby's reputation for produci...
-
West End Producer Mark Robert Petty on Bringing London's Theatre Stars to Derbyshire
Friday, 10 July 2026
West End producer, lyricist and musical theatre creator Mark Robert Petty joins Kirsty Corbett on the Arts & Toast podcast to discuss his exciting new mission to bring world-class West End entertainment to audiences in Derbyshire.Mark shares the story behind "The West End Sings… Elvis," an unforgettable live concert celebrating the music of Elvis Presley, coming to Repton School's 400 Theatre on Friday 24 July. Featuring acclaimed performers from Wicked, Les Misérables, The Osmonds and Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story, the fully live production showcases 26 of Elvis's greatest hits with a live ...
-
National Trust opens children's fashion exhibition at Sudbury Hall
Thursday, 9 July 2026
Discover the new Wearing Feelings: Childhood in Black and Bright exhibition at The Children's Country House at Sudbury Hall, a unique National Trust exhibition in Derbyshire exploring 150 years of children's fashion, clothing and childhood. In this exclusive interview, we speak with exhibition curators Megan and Catherine, who reveal how historic children's clothing tells stories of identity, emotion, family life and changing attitudes to childhood. From treasured garments to everyday outfits, the exhibition offers a fascinating insight into the history of children's fashion and dress. Runn...
-
Meet the "Mean Girls" Drummer: Dan Hayward
Monday, 6 July 2026
The Thriving World of Drumming: Insights from Professional Drummer Dan Hayward.As we delve into the world of drumming, one name stands out - Dan Hayward. A professional drummer with a rich background in theatre and various musical genres, Dan shares her journey and insights that resonate with aspiring musicians and seasoned professionals alike. From his first paid gig at 14 years old with an amateur dramatic society to playing as part of the bands for Avenue Q, Hamilton and auditioning for Gloria Estefan (he got the job, too!). He's currently on tour with Mean Girls (which hits the East Mi...
-
The 30th anniversary of Derby's Eagle Awards is nearly here!
Sunday, 28 June 2026
In this episode, we're turning our attention to the Eagle Awards, one of the region's most inspiring celebrations of achievement, recognition and community impact within the amateur dramatic community in Derby.Taking place at Derby Theatre on 18 July, the awards shine a spotlight on the individuals, shows and projects that are making a real difference across the East Midlands and beyond.I chat with the new Community Development Officer, Tanvir Akram, to explore what the Eagle Awards represent and why recognising excellence, dedication and positive change is more important than ever. Whether...
-
Can a working class independent Musician "make it"? "Gig A Day Guy" aka Isaac Neilson hits halfway
Thursday, 25 June 2026
In this episode of Arts & Toast, host Kirsty Corbett sits down with Buxton singer-songwriter Isaac Neilson, the independent musician attempting one of the most ambitious challenges in UK grassroots music: performing a live gig every day throughout 2026.This week marks the official halfway point of his year-long mission, Isaac reflects on what it takes to build a music career without industry connections, major-label backing or shortcuts. His challenge is a real-world experiment to discover whether a working-class independent artist can break through on determination, consistency and communi...
