The Sex Education effect – how inspired casting direction can shake up the theatre world

In a new episode, Sarah and Alex mull on the National Theatre’s bold new take on Oscar Wilde’s The Importance of Being Earnest led by Sex Education and Doctor Who star Ncuti Gatwa.

This leads them on to a wider discussion about the brilliant success of casting directors in guiding top talent from the stage to the screen – and then back to the stage.

Speaking of casting directors, the WhatsOnStage Awards nominees were unveiled this week, with the casting category being one of many chock full of top stage and creative talent. Alex and Sarah reflect on how the awards have changed, and what they say about the UK theatre ecosystem.

Crompton and Wood host a weekly series on all things theatrical. News, views, frank exchanges and lists offer an unmissable guide to what’s happening on stage (and in film and on television) now, in the past and in future.

The podcast can be listened to on various streaming platforms here. Make sure you subscribe so you never miss an episode! We’ll also be uploading them to YouTube every weekend.