Where can I listen to this podcast?

This podcast is available on 4 platforms including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and more. You can also use the RSS feed directly.

Does this podcast accept guests?

No, this podcast does not typically feature guests.

A & O Review the Show

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by Adrian and Olivia Polglase

12 episodes

Updated Daily

Accepts GuestsHas Sponsors

Podcast Overview

A & O Review the Show is a theatre review podcast from an American theatre obsessive & an award winning British investigative journalist, recording from London, the world’s theatrical capital. Olivia Polglase works with emerging producers across the West End and UK theatre scene with Stage One. Adrian Polglase is an investigative journalist at BBC Panorama, asking the difficult questions & uncovering truths. Here they head to a show & bring you smart and sharp reviews of West End musicals to the bold new writing of new plays. All with a transatlantic twist & just the right amount of insight.

Language

🇺🇲

Publishing Since

2/21/2026

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Recent Episodes

June 20, 2026

War Horse - That Albert's back. Check out his Horse

This episode, Adrian & Olivia saddle up for War Horse at London’s National Theatre.In this theatre review, they discuss the breathtaking puppetry, the emotional journey of Joey and Albert, and why this First World War epic remains one of the most celebrated productions in modern theatre. Along the way, Adrian revisits the original novel, questions just how far one should go for a horse, and discovers that some of the book’s most moving moments never made it to the stage.Also featuring: military pigeons, a beer-drinking army bear, and a goose that may have stolen the entire show.War Horse… or War Goose? Tune in to find out. Chapters:00:00 Introduction00:48 Synopsis01:50 Initial Impressions & Personal Connections09:01 Story & Characterisation15:18 Let's talk about Albert21:01 Let's talk about the Novel29:53 Set Design, Staging & Choreography32:50 Puppetry, War Goose, Lighting & Costumes38:27 Final Thoughts39:33 Adrian's Corner: Real or Fake War Animal

June 6, 2026

Care - A Life Affirming Snapshot of Humanity

Adrian & Olivia head to the Young Vic for Care, a moving and deeply human new play by Alexander Zeldinthat shines a light on life inside a care home.In this theatre review, they discuss the powerful performances, the striking realism and the difficult questions the production raises about ageing, memory, independence, and the social care system. Drawing on their personal experiences, they also reflect on the emotional realities faced by families, professional carers, and the millions of unpaid carers who quietly support loved ones every day.It’s not the easiest night at the theatre, but it may be one of the most important. Warning: This episode looks at a show that deals with death, social care and mental health, as well as personal stories relating to these themes which some may find distressing. If after the episode you feel like you need extra support, the BBC has a list of charities and organisations which may be able to help. You can find it at <a href="https://www.bbc.co.uk/actionline" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">www.bbc.co.uk/actionline</a> Chapters:00:00 Disclaimer00:32 Introduction01:49 Synopsis03:04 Initial Impressions & Personal Connections07:00 Story & Characterisation15:30 Direction18:47 Themes27:13 Set & Staging31:18 Final Thoughts34:09 Adrian's Corner: Unsung Heroes of Unpaid Carers

May 23, 2026

Avenue Q - The Musical Willis Was Talkin' About

Adrian & Olivia are back for London’s West End gloriously chaotic production of Avenue Q, the puppet-filled musical where adulthood is confusing, the internet is questionable, and absolutely nothing is suitable for children. In this review, they revisit the cult musical comedy that blends Sesame Street-style puppetry with very grown-up problems, unpacking whether its outrageous humour, surprisingly heartfelt songs and existential millennial panic still hold up more than twenty years later. From purpose and unemployment to bad decisions and very inappropriate puppets, there’s plenty to discuss — including how this West End revival has updated the show for 2026 audiences. So the internet is for… podcasts? Tune in and watch to find out. Chapters00:00 Introduction & Life Updates02:10 Updates03:53 Avenue Q Show History05:15 Personal Connections with the Show08:35 Story & Characterisation18:31 The Music23:01 The Puppets, Set & Staging29:29 Final Thoughts31:27 Adrian’s Corner: Millennial Self-Help Podcast or Avenue Q Song?

12 total episodes available

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What is A & O Review the Show?: A & O Review the Show is a theatre review podcast from an American theatre obsessive & an award winning British investigative journalist, recording from London, the world’s theatrical capital.

Olivia Polglase works with emerging producers across the West End and UK theatre scene with Stage One. Adrian Polglase is an investigative journalist at BBC Panorama, asking the difficult questions & uncovering truths.

Here they head to a show & bring you smart and sharp reviews of West End musicals to the bold new writing of new plays. All with a transatlantic twist & just the right amount of insight.
How often does this podcast release new episodes?: This podcast updates daily.
Where can I listen to this podcast?: This podcast is available on 4 platforms including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and more. You can also use the RSS feed directly.
Does this podcast accept guests?: No, this podcast does not typically feature guests.

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A &amp; O Review the Show