The Everyman is inviting audiences behind the scenes for a series of discussions on all things related to theatre and the creative world. Each month, a special guest from across our network will provide a rare glimpse into the magic that brings theatre to life. It’s the perfect chance to meet like-minded people and learn a little more about how our shows come together.

So, grab a brew and a scone, and get ready to discover what goes down before the curtain goes up.

Upcoming hosts are:

Fri 5 Sep – Gary Lunt

Gary is BBC Radio Merseyside’s resident film expert and in 2018 he started his business Reel Tours which provides film location walking tours around Liverpool city centre. In 2025 he became a Blue Badge Tour Guide, regularly hosting tours, talks and screening events based around film history. He has written for several film websites and magazines and is currently in the process of working on his debut book which is about the cinematic history of Britain.

Fri 3 Oct – Ashley Shairp

Theatre Design and Miniaturisation
As a Theatre Designer with 40 years’ experience, making models and miniaturisation is a regular part of Ashley’s world and very much a tool of the trade. In this hour Ashley will discuss his craft and talk about the allure of miniaturisation and how he has explored it within his performance-based work Front Window and Solotoria. He will also reference projects created at LIPA where he taught design for 27 years.

Fri 12 Dec – Cate Mackie

Costume: From Page to Stage
Find out what happens in a Costume Department, from the first tentative ideas to the glamorous Guest Night. Cate, our Head of Costume, will talk you through the different roles in Costume, and debunk some of the myths. She’ll show you the processes; from the first conversations with the Designer, to the moment the performers walk on stage to an excited audience. You’ll discover who the secret storytellers are and see examples of last-minute complications that arise and how they’re solved. You’ll see how we plan far ahead to avoid these complications and to keep our performers and audiences safe. You’ll hear stories about productions from various theatres around the country and leave with a great understanding of why, even though it can be a stressful job, it’s always so much fun.

Banner photograph taken at Q&A with panto legend Adam Keast, hosted by Ngunan Adamu at Everyman Open House 2024. Photography by Olivia Carroll.