Where Creatives Connect

INTRODUCING George Fowler, known to the world as the remarkable 'HUGO GRRRL' As a New Zealand drag king, comedian, and cabaret producer, George's journey is an extraordinary exploration of self-honesty, personal integrity, and the unyielding pursuit of one's artistic truth. 🌟 Episode Highlights: 🌈 George's story is rooted in authenticity, emphasizing the importance of staying true to oneself, especially in the entertainment industry. He shares a profound belief that "nobody in this industry is paid enough to work with bad people," underlining the significance of surrounding oneself with a supportive and ethical community. George's role as a producer in the world of cabaret takes centre stage as he discusses the importance of generating work for oneself, ensuring a sustainable way to pursue art. His experience of winning 'House of Drag' stands as a pivotal moment in his journey, where humble goals defied conventional expectations, requiring precision and determination to secure victory. This episode delves into the world of drag, discussing the "instagramification" of the industry, and the transformative power of self-acceptance, particularly through George's transgender journey. George's openness and journey offer essential insights into the evolving landscape of drag and the arts. Join us for a thought-provoking conversation with George Fowler, where his story reminds us of the significance of staying true to our artistic identity, working with good people, and embracing authenticity in the ever-evolving world of creativity. 🎤 Don't miss this episode, where George's unique path in the world of drag is both inspiring and enlightening. GET NORD VPN! 💻 FOLLOW LINK FOR 68% OFF! https://go.nordfriend.com/aff_c?offer_id=819&aff_id=92384 Don't forget to check out the show notes for exclusive details on my favourite Dingbats notebooks and pens, and a special discount code just for our listeners! Use code 'JAMIE10' for 10% off ALL products at checkout! Like, Subscribe and be part of this creative community! 📚 📚 🖊️ Notebooks & Pens I Use: https://www.dingbats-notebooks.com/?ref=JAMIE10 10% off with 'JAMIE10' at checkout!

Welcome back! In this week's episode of "Where Creatives Connect," we are thrilled to introduce you to the remarkable Actor Acushla-Tara Kupe. Her journey in the world of acting is a testament to the power of self-awareness, finding contentment from within, and recognizing that fame should never be the driving force behind one's art. 🌟 Episode Highlights: 🎭 Acushla-Tara embarked on her professional acting journey at a young age, making her mark with the cult feature film "Fresh Meat" alongside New Zealand icon Temuera Morrison. She then spent four transformative years at the iconic Circa Theatre in Wellington, honing her craft and expanding her artistic horizons. Her talent and determination took her to the UK, where she landed the role of Pui Sonova in the BBC drama series "Creeped Out." Notably, Acushla-Tara's international performances with the renowned kapa haka group Ngāti Rānana led her to a role in the multi-award-winning Netflix series "The Crown." Upon returning to New Zealand, Acushla-Tara has been a vibrant presence in the entertainment scene, contributing her talent to various series, including the Apple TV+ show "Mr Corman" alongside Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Acorn TV/TVNZ's comedy-drama series "Under the Vines" Season 2, the Māori-language children's series "Te Pāmu Kūmara" Season 1 & 2, and the Irish/New Zealand co-production "The Gone," where she takes the lead role of Diana Huia, directed by Peter Burger and Hannah Quinn. This episode delves deep into Acushla-Tara's insights and experiences, touching upon the importance of self-awareness, finding inner contentment, and understanding that fame should never be the sole driving force behind one's artistic endeavors. 🌈 Join us for a captivating conversation with Acushla-Tara Kupe, where her journey reminds us that true fulfillment in the creative world comes from within, not from external validation. GET NORD VPN! 💻 FOLLOW LINK FOR 68% OFF! https://go.nordfriend.com/aff_c?offer_id=819&aff_id=92384 Don't forget to check out the show notes for exclusive details on my favourite Dingbats notebooks and pens, and a special discount code just for our listeners! Use code 'JAMIE10' for 10% off ALL products at checkout! Like, Subscribe and be part of this creative community! 📚 📚 🖊️ Notebooks & Pens I Use: https://bit.ly/3dbQYPW 10% off with 'JAMIE10' at checkout!

In the latest episode of "Where Creatives Connect," prepare to be inspired as we sit down with the incredible Liv Thompson, a session musician whose bass guitar talents have graced stages alongside some of the biggest names in the music industry. 🎶 Episode Highlights: 🎸 Liv's journey is a testament to the power of persistence and the unwavering pursuit of one's passion. She has shared the stage with musical icons like Cat Burns, Little Mix, Becky Hill, and Zara Larsson. However, the pinnacle of her career came earlier this year when she realized a quietly held dream by performing at NPR's Tiny Desk Concert with RAYE. Liv reflects on this surreal and humbling experience, emphasizing the importance of staying true to your path, even when it feels uncertain. In this conversation, Liv shares invaluable insights into her creative process, including the relentless practice required to become the best musician possible. Her dedication to her craft shines through as she encourages aspiring artists to keep honing their skills and maintain humility along the way. At the remarkable age of 25, Liv Thompson is already taking the session scene by storm, touring the world with some of the most influential pop artists of our generation. Her story serves as a shining example of what can be achieved with talent, dedication, and an unshakeable commitment to one's art. Don't miss this episode, where Liv Thompson's journey reminds us that success in the creative world is born from confidence, hard work, and an unwavering passion for the craft. 🌟 GET NORD VPN! 💻 FOLLOW LINK FOR 68% OFF! https://go.nordfriend.com/aff_c?offer_id=819&aff_id=92384 Don't forget to check out the show notes for exclusive details on my favourite Dingbats notebooks and pens, and a special discount code just for our listeners! Use code 'JAMIE10' for 10% off ALL products at checkout! Like, Subscribe and be part of this creative community! 📚 https://bit.ly/3dbQYPW10% off with 'JAMIE10' at checkout!

In this enlightening episode of "Where Creatives Connect," we introduce you to Sarah Morgan, currently making her mark as the Assistant Stage Manager (Book Cover) for "Wicked: The Musical" in London's iconic West End. Sarah's journey began as a dancer and performer at Knutsford Academy, but fate led her on an unexpected path. She discovered the transformative power of embracing change, nurturing her talents, and working relentlessly to achieve her dreams. Throughout this conversation, Sarah reflects on her formative years, attending Knutsford Academy, and developing a diverse skill set across the performing arts. She also shares the invaluable experience of participating in the West End Masterclass with esteemed actor Michael Xavier. Sarah's story serves as a shining example of the importance of keeping an open mind, both to career shifts and personal growth. She emphasizes the significance of maintaining strong support networks, particularly the unwavering support of her family. Join us for an insightful exploration of Sarah Morgan's journey, reminding us that with determination and adaptability, the possibilities in the ever-evolving creative industry are truly limitless. 🌟 Don't miss this episode, where Sarah's narrative inspires us to embrace change and pursue our passions with unwavering dedication. 🌟 GET NORD VPN! 💻 FOLLOW LINK FOR 68% OFF! https://go.nordfriend.com/aff_c?offer_id=819&aff_id=92384 Don't forget to check out the show notes for exclusive details on my favourite Dingbats notebooks and pens, and a special discount code just for our listeners! Use code 'JAMIE10' for 10% off ALL products at checkout! Like, Subscribe and be part of this creative community! 📚 📚 🖊️ Notebooks & Pens I Use: https://bit.ly/3dbQYPW 10% off with 'JAMIE10' at checkout!

In this episode of Where Creatives Connect, prepare to be moved, inspired, and uplifted as we sit down with the extraordinary Jay Swinnerton, the captivating performer behind the fabulous drag persona, Shanika Sunrise. Jay's journey is a testament to the incredible power of creativity and self-expression in the face of life's most challenging moments. 🌈 Episode Highlights: At just 19 years old, Jay received the devastating diagnosis of stage four Hodgkin Lymphoma, altering the course of their life. In this poignant conversation, Jay shares how they discovered a lifeline in creativity during their darkest hours. Drag became their sanctuary, a means to take their mind off the turmoil of cancer treatment, and ultimately, a source of strength and empowerment. Through the lens of drag, Jay's resilience shines as they use makeup and performance to transform adversity into art. Their story demonstrates that even in the bleakest of circumstances, creativity can be a beacon of hope. This episode strikes a balance between hope and the harsh reality of battling cancer. Jay's journey from diagnosis to remission is a testament to the indomitable human spirit and the healing power of self-expression. 🎉 Join us in celebrating Jay Swinnerton's incredible journey from despair to the spotlight of Manchester Pride. Their story is a shining example of how creativity can save lives and bring forth a brighter tomorrow. 🌟 Don't miss this heartwarming and inspiring episode that reminds us all that, no matter the odds, there's always a chance to shine! GET NORD VPN! 💻 FOLLOW LINK FOR 68% OFF! https://go.nordfriend.com/aff_c?offer_id=819&aff_id=92384 Don't forget to check out the show notes for exclusive details on my favourite Dingbats notebooks and pens, and a special discount code just for our listeners! Use code 'JAMIE10' for 10% off ALL products at checkout! Like, Subscribe and be part of this creative community! 📚 📚 🖊️ Notebooks & Pens I Use: https://bit.ly/3dbQYPW 10% off with 'JAMIE10' at checkout! 🎙️ Audio Gear I use: SM7B Mic: https://amzn.to/3FdkjUY Rode Boom Arm: https://amzn.to/3YAEbbz Dynamite: https://amzn.to/3Jvdb91 Kontakt Audio 6 Mk2: https://amzn.to/4213NRV Rode Wireless II: https://amzn.to/3JGUgXR 📸 Video gear I use: Cameras: https://amzn.to/3T8kLcT Wide Lens: https://amzn.to/426DQR5 Tripod: https://amzn.to/3lcHacx SD Cards: https://amzn.to/4013SmX SSD: https://amzn.to/3LiL0vp HDD: https://amzn.to/3yrTpFc

🌟 Get ready for an extraordinary episode of "Where Creatives Connect" as we dive into the fascinating world of New Zealand Actor, Motion Capture Artist, and Stuntman, Allan Henry. 🎭🎬 🐻 00:01 - 16:14: Allan Henry is Cocaine Bear! 🐻 In this segment, Allan takes us behind the scenes of his incredible journey portraying the unforgettable "Cocaine Bear" in the film of the same name. Discover how he prepared for this role by studying real bears, using unique gear, and tackling the challenges of shooting in Ireland during the COVID era. 🎥 Allan's impressive filmography includes roles in blockbuster hits like "The BFG," "Planet of the Apes," Marvel and DC movies, "Godzilla vs. Kong," "Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter," "Game of Thrones," and "Umbrella Academy." 🌟 🌈 16:17 - 32:11: Embrace Creativity and Celebrate Success 🌈 Learn valuable insights from Allan on embracing creativity and celebrating others' achievements. Discover how technology like AI and VR is opening up new avenues for creativity and making it more accessible to everyone. Allan emphasizes the importance of personal experiences and a supportive community in fueling your creative journey. 🌟 32:14 - 48:38: The Art of Being Genuine in Creativity 🌟 Explore the art of infusing a part of yourself into your characters while maintaining a healthy distinction between fiction and reality. Allan shares his thoughts on navigating the emotional impact of character roles and the challenge of celebrating personal achievements. Get a sneak peek into Allan's upcoming projects, including undisclosed performance capture work and recent TV series involvement. Join us in celebrating the essence of creativity, authenticity, and the incredible journey of a multi-talented artist. Don't miss this engaging episode of "Where Creatives Connect" with Allan Henry! 🎙️✨Don't forget to check out the show notes for exclusive details on my favourite Dingbats notebooks and pens, and a special discount code just for our listeners! Use code 'JAMIE10' for 10% off ALL products at checkout! Like, Subscribe and be part of this creative community!Notebooks & Pens I Use:https://bit.ly/3dbQYPW10% off with 'JAMIE10' at checkout!Audio Gear I use:SM7B Mic: https://amzn.to/3FdkjUYRode Boom Arm: https://amzn.to/3YAEbbzDynamite: https://amzn.to/3Jvdb91Kontakt Audio 6 Mk2: https://amzn.to/4213NRVRode Wireless II: https://amzn.to/3JGUgXRVideo gear I use:Cameras: https://amzn.to/3T8kLcTWide Lens: https://amzn.to/426DQR5Tripod: https://amzn.to/3lcHacxSD Cards: https://amzn.to/4013SmXSSD: https://amzn.to/3LiL0vpHDD: https://amzn.to/3yrTpFc

Unlock the door to boundless inspiration in this exhilarating episode of "Where Creatives Connect." Journey with us as we traverse the artistic landscape of Wellington, New Zealand, in the company of the remarkable Ben Fagan – a creative role model, inspiring poet, and visionary producer. With enthusiasm and professionalism, we dive deep into Ben's captivating journey, celebrating the decisions and experiences that have paved his path to prominence. Days Bay - Ben Fagan feat. NZ Youth Choir (Pākehā 2020) https://youtu.be/XJjBQy5rXKw?si=f6g8RIEnwRUuEe2u Ben's Website: https://www.benfagan.nz Engage in a heartfelt conversation that captures the essence of Ben's artistry and life. From sharing cherished memories of the past decade to unveiling his latest literary endeavor – a brand new novel – the episode offers a unique glimpse into the inner workings of a true creative force. Ben's poetic prowess has graced stages across the UK, USA, and NZ, with two mesmerizing poetry shows at the prestigious Edinburgh Festival Fringe. His debut collection, "Some Traveller," resonates with readers worldwide, while his influence reverberates through his involvement with organizations like Apples and Snakes and the New Zealand Poetry Slam. As Artistic Director of Ruri Tūtohu Motif Poetry & Taiohi Whakaari ā-Motu National Youth Drama School, Ben Fagan extends his passion for creativity to nurture the talents of tomorrow. Tune in to "Where Creatives Connect" and be transported into the heart of artistic evolution. Subscribe, share, and like to stay connected with our riveting conversations and join us in celebrating the incredible odysseys of visionaries like Ben. Join us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more, and embark on a journey that ignites your own creative spark. Your support fuels our exploration of creativity's boundless possibilities.

Welcome to another inspiring episode of "Where Creatives Connect"! In this installment, we invite you to join us on an enthralling journey to the heart of the New Zealand FRINGE festival offices in Wellington, NZ. Here, we are joined by the immensely talented and versatile artist, Vanessa Stacey, for an insightful conversation that spans an hour of creativity, emotions, and artistic endeavors. 🎭 Unveiling the Many Facets of Vanessa Stacey: Vanessa Stacey, a true powerhouse in the world of arts, wears many hats—she is a celebrated film, television, and stage actress, a gifted musician, director, producer, playwright, singer, songwriter, and comedian. You might recognize her as Alice from the New Zealand cult sci-fi series "The Tribe" or as Brenda Blue in the beloved British children's show "Jay Jay the Jet Plane." With roles in iconic productions like "The Lord of the Rings" trilogy, "Outrageous Fortune," "Out of the Blue," and more, Vanessa's artistic journey has been nothing short of awe-inspiring. 🎤 Embracing Vulnerability and Creative Triumphs: In this intimate episode, Vanessa shares the emotional and vulnerable side of being a multi-disciplinarian artist. With such a diverse range of talents, she sheds light on the challenges of juggling numerous artistic endeavors and the profound pride she feels for her team at the FRINGE festival offices. Join us as we delve into the rollercoaster life of a true artistic trailblazer in 2023. 🎬 The Unveiling of "Bookworm": Vanessa unveils her latest work as an actress in the captivating new film "Bookworm," where she shares the screen with acclaimed actors Michael Smiley and Elijah Wood. Discover the behind-the-scenes stories and the artistry that brings this intriguing project to life. 🗺️ Connecting with the FRINGE Festival: Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the New Zealand FRINGE offices, a hub of artistic innovation and cultural expression. As Vanessa shares her experiences within this creative space, we gain valuable insights into the thriving arts scene of Wellington and the impact of the festival on emerging artists. 🎧 Tune In to Ignite Your Creative Fire: Whether you're an aspiring artist, a seasoned creative, or simply someone who appreciates the arts, this one-hour episode promises to ignite your creative spark and nourish your passion for artistic expression. Join us as we celebrate the power of creativity and the joy of connecting with others through art. 🎶 Listen Now on Spotify and YouTube: Don't miss out on this captivating episode! Tune in to "Where Creatives Connect" on Spotify [insert link] and YouTube [insert link] to embark on this engaging encounter with Vanessa Stacey at the New Zealand FRINGE festival offices in Wellington, NZ. Like, share, and subscribe to stay connected with our latest episodes and discover more fascinating stories from the world of creativity. 🔗 Follow Jamie on Instagram/TikTok/Twitter! Stay connected with us on social media to receive updates on upcoming episodes, exclusive behind-the-scenes content, and more. Your support and enthusiasm fuel our passion for storytelling and bringing you closer to the vibrant world of creativity. #WhereCreativesConnect #Podcast #ArtistryUnveiled #WellingtonFRINGE #VanessaStacey #MultiTalentedArtist #CreativeJourney #ArtisticExpression #NZArtsScene #InspiringConversations #CreativityUnleashed

Welcome to another inspiring episode of "Where Creatives Connect"! In this episode, we have the pleasure of sitting down with the incredible Kelsey Andrew, founder of KJ Studios. Join us as Kelsey takes us on a captivating journey from her early days as a young dancer to becoming a world-touring performer and opening her very own dance studio in Tauranga, NZ. In this conversation, Kelsey shares her personal experiences, triumphs, and challenges as she transitioned from dance school in Melbourne to traveling the world as a dancer in the beloved production, "Dora the Explorer." Discover the passion and dedication that fueled her ambition to establish KJ Studios, where dancers of all levels and ages can find a space to nurture their creativity and express themselves freely. Kelsey's expertise goes beyond dance technique. She delves into the invaluable life skills she imparts to her students, discussing how she coaches her Fox Pack to navigate the competitive dance world with resilience and integrity. Join us as she highlights the importance of maintaining a strong mental health, embracing wellbeing practices, and cultivating a balanced outlook on life as a young performer. At KJ Studios, they believe in fostering a supportive and judgment-free environment, where every student feels valued and encouraged to grow as an individual. Offering an extensive range of classes, from Ballet to Tap, Yoga to Pilates, and everything in between, KJ Studios caters to beginners, pre-professionals, and everyone in between. Their purpose-built studios are home to an exceptional team of creative artists, teachers, and choreographers, dedicated to supporting their students' artistic journey. If you're passionate about dance and seeking a space to unleash your creativity, then KJ Studios is the place to be. Experience the KJ Studios difference and join the Fox Pack today. Don't miss this captivating conversation with Kelsey Andrew on "Where Creatives Connect"! Make sure to like, comment, and subscribe to our channel to stay tuned for more inspiring episodes. And remember, let your creativity soar! Use code 'JAMIE10' for 10% off ALL Dingbats Notebooks products. https://www.dingbats-notebooks.com Notebooks & Pens I Use: https://bit.ly/3dbQYPW 10% off with 'JAMIE10' at checkout! Audio Gear I use: SM7B Mic: https://amzn.to/3FdkjUY Rode Boom Arm: https://amzn.to/3YAEbbz Dynamite: https://amzn.to/3Jvdb91 Kontakt Audio 6 Mk2: https://amzn.to/4213NRV Video gear I use: Cameras: https://amzn.to/3T8kLcT Wide Lens: https://amzn.to/426DQR5 Tripod: https://amzn.to/3lcHacx SD Cards: https://amzn.to/4013SmX SSD: https://amzn.to/3LiL0vp HDD: https://amzn.to/3yrTpFc

Join us for a compelling episode as we delve into the remarkable journey of Brin Rudkin, a highly respected New Zealand radio host and producer, who found himself at the center of the shocking shutdown of TodayFM. In this captivating conversation, Brin opens up about the personal impact of the closure, his unwavering resilience, and the path he has taken to navigate this challenging situation. Brin Rudkin's story is one of determination and perseverance. From his humble beginnings selling "cooking sausages" in his first radio job to becoming a trusted and influential voice in New Zealand. His unwavering commitment to providing quality content and connecting with his audience has earned him a special place in the hearts of listeners across the country. The closure of TodayFM marked not only the end of a promising network but also a significant shift in New Zealand's media landscape. Brin Rudkin shares his personal insights and experiences, shedding light on the impact of the closure on himself and his fellow colleagues. Through his inspiring journey, he exemplifies resilience and the ability to adapt to unexpected challenges. In this episode, we also explore the broader implications of TodayFM's closure and the evolving dynamics of the media industry. Join us as we discuss the future of news and talk radio in New Zealand and how Brin Rudkin's experiences provide valuable lessons for navigating turbulent times. Don't miss this captivating conversation as we unravel the shocking shutdown of TodayFM, hear Brin Rudkin's inspiring journey, and gain valuable insights into the power of resilience and adaptability in the face of adversity. Notebooks & Pens I Use: https://bit.ly/3dbQYPW 10% off with 'JAMIE10' at checkout! Audio Gear I use: SM7B Mic: https://amzn.to/3FdkjUY Rode Boom Arm: https://amzn.to/3YAEbbz Dynamite: https://amzn.to/3Jvdb91 Kontakt Audio 6 Mk2: https://amzn.to/4213NRV Rode Wireless II: https://amzn.to/3JGUgXR Video gear I use: Cameras: https://amzn.to/3T8kLcT Wide Lens: https://amzn.to/426DQR5 Tripod: https://amzn.to/3lcHacx SD Cards: https://amzn.to/4013SmX SSD: https://amzn.to/3LiL0vp HDD: https://amzn.to/3yrTpFc