Behind the Cues is a behind-the-scenes theatre podcast that pulls back the curtain on the real world of live performance, the chaos, the comedy, and the controlled disasters that audiences never see.
Hosted by Tom, the show dives into backstage culture, tech week survival stories, cue chaos, script mishaps, prop disasters, quick changes, and the strange magic that somehow makes every show still go on.
With a mix of sarcastic humor, candid conversations, and real-life theatre experiences, Behind the Cues explores what it actually takes to run a production, from headset gossip and last-minute fixes to the unsung heroes who keep everything moving when things fall apart.
Whether you’re a performer, technician, stage manager, or just someone who loves theatre, this podcast is your backstage pass to the messy, hilarious, and wildly human side of the stage — where the magic doesn’t happen onstage… it happens behind the cues.
in this episode I delve into the world of theatre, providing an semi in-depth explanation of theatre jargon, roles and responsibilities in theatre, and valuable advice for newcomers to the industry. I cover the essential terminology, the duties of a deputy stage manager, and the importance of asking questions and staying curious in the theatre industry.
16 Aug 2026
After The Tabs Close
In this episode I explore the behind-the-scenes processes that occur after a performance closes or ends, including get outs and resets. I delve into the activities of various departments such as costume, stage management, lighting, sound, and construction, highlighting the meticulous work involved in maintaining and resetting the theatre space for the next performance, this episode was made with theatre newbies and thespians in mind.
28 Jul 2026
talking about life with Sara Kaikkonen
Sara Kaikkonen shares her journey from Finland to the UK, her experiences at East 15, and the challenges she faced in the arts industry. She discusses her passion for acting, dance, and writing, as well as her pet peeves and advice for beginner artists. Our conversation covers the challenges of transitioning from drama school to the industry, the unpredictability of the acting industry, the impact of COVID-19 on theatrical experiences, and the importance of balancing life and an acting career. we also delve into our favorite theatrical experiences, current projects, and future plans.
15 Jul 2026
Talking culture shifts in theatre with James Goodall
in this episode James and I, talk about the importance of local stories in theatre, the impact of theatre education, and the process of creating and telling stories. We delve into the significance of personal background in storytelling and the influence of cultural shifts on artistic expression.
James tells us about his background and how Liverpool shaped his journey into the industry.
28 Jun 2026
Backstage Superstitions
in this episode I explore the strange traditions, taboos, and rituals that have haunted theatres for centuries. I delve into the origins, historical impact, and practical reasons behind superstitions, as well as their modern relevance and persistence in theatre culture.
15 Jun 2026
talking improv with Annamarie Burke
Annamarie Burke joins me on this weeks podcast to discuss their background, passion for theatre, and the impact of the internet on the arts. we delve into the exploration of queer and trans stories in theatre, as well as the creation of improvised theatrical performances in the London scene. The conversation delves into the world of theatrical and narrative improv, the unique role of the tech booth, the challenges and future plans of the Fiasco and Improvised Archive show, misconceptions about improv, advice for young Anna, and the power of manifesting.
28 May 2026
Ghost Light
in this episode I explore the spooky and mysterious side of old theatres, focusing on the tradition of ghost lights and sharing chilling ghost stories from various theatres. I delve into the history, superstitions, and experiences associated with theatre ghosts, and how they create a captivating and eerie atmosphere.
15 May 2026
Monologue Moments
in this episode I share my personal connection to monologues, presenting a selection of my favorite monologue moments from various plays and my own writing. The monologues explore themes of self-discovery, mythical storytelling, the AIDS epidemic, comedy, and grief, reflecting the diverse and personal nature of theatre.
29 Apr 2026
Backstage Chaos
In this episode I delve into the chaos and mishaps that occur backstage during theatre productions. I'm featuring your stories of unexpected disasters, humorous incidents, and valuable insights into the world of backstage theatre.
9 Mar 2026
curtain call favourites
In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain and talking about some of my all-time favourite plays and musicals—the ones I’ve performed in, the ones I’ve watched from the audience, and the ones that still live rent-free in my head years later.
I share some of the shows that completely stole my heart, a few memories, and some of the chaos that naturally comes with live theatre (because if something can go wrong on stage… it usually does). I also give a shout-out to the amazing friends, castmates, and production companies I’ve been lucky enough to work with—because let’s be honest, theatre would be a lot less fun without the people you’re frantically whispering lines to in the wings.
Expect plenty of theatre love, a few questionable stage memories, and a celebration of the productions and people that make all the rehearsals, missed cues, and last-minute costume fixes totally worth it.
24 Feb 2026
Quick Change Complete
In this episode I delve into the art of quick changes in theatre and performance, exploring the magic and skill behind these transformations.
I cover some of my most favourite. iconic quick changes from various productions, including Frozen, Heathers the musical, Legally Blonde, Drag Race Season 7, Wu Opera, and magician quick changes.
come listen to find out what goes in to the best quick changes in modern history!
28 Jan 2026
introductions
Welcome to the very first episode of Behind the Cues. In this opening episode, is my introduction, my background in theatre, and how I somehow ended up spending most of his life backstage instead of in the spotlight.
From my first shows and early mishaps to lessons learned in life, I share my journey through the world of theatre, the moments that shaped me, and the experiences that led to the creation of this podcast. It’s part origin story, part love letter to backstage life, and part “how did I survive that?”
26 Jan 2026
Promo
🎭 Behind the Cues is the podcast that finally lets the backstage crew talk. From gossip on headset to near-disasters no one in the audience ever noticed, we’re pulling back the curtain on the chaos, the comedy, and the people who actually make theatre happen.
Join us as we spill stories, celebrate the unsung heroes, and prove that the real magic doesn’t happen under the spotlight... It happens behind the cues.
If you love theatre, live for tech week chaos, or just enjoy hearing how close everything came to falling apart… this one’s for you.
Contact Behind The Cues
Guest appearances
Books guests
Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.
Host of Behind The Cues?
Claim your podcast to manage its listing and keep your show details accurate.
Pod Engine is an independent podcast discovery and analytics service and is not affiliated with or endorsed by this podcast. Artwork and show content belong to their owners. Full legal notice.
Explore this show Podcast research with Pod Engine
