The Clarkston Podcast takes theatre lovers behind the curtain for a rare peek into the making of Clarkston, the West End play now showing at the Trafalgar Theatre. 🎧 Hosted and produced by Ngofeen Mputubwele, this three-part mini-series follows the cast and creative team through the final 72 hours before opening night. It captures the tension, excitement, and teamwork that bring a new West End show to life.
About the Clarkston Podcast
Each of the three episodes of the Clarkston podcast focuses on a different stage of production:
- Episode 1: Inside rehearsals and technical runs before opening night.
- Episode 2: Exploring acting and writing in intimate theatre.
- Episode 3: Following the creative team through their very first audience performance.
Ngofeen Mputubwele, whose previous work includes The New Yorker and WIRED, brings a documentary-style approach that captures the artistry, pressure, and teamwork behind every cue.
About the Podcast
Produced by The N Isn’t Silent Productions, the podcast shines a light on the collaboration and passion that drive modern theatre. Each episode focuses on a unique part of the creative process:
- Episode 1: The cast in rehearsals and technical run-throughs as they prepare for their West End debuts.
- Episode 2: The craft of acting and writing in intimate stage storytelling.
- Episode 3: Opening night nerves and triumphs, featuring the director, lighting designer, producers, actors, and understudies.
Ngofeen Mputubwele, who also created acclaimed audio work for The New Yorker, WIRED, and Human Rights Watch, brings a thoughtful, documentary-style approach to the series. His storytelling highlights the human side of theatre—ambition, vulnerability, and the pursuit of artistic excellence.
Clarkston at Trafalgar Theatre
Written by Samuel D. Hunter (The Whale), Clarkston tells the story of Jake and Chris, two souls working night shifts at a small-town Costco while searching for a sense of belonging. Their journey reflects the explorers Lewis and Clark—blazing trails through friendship, love, and hope.
The Clarkston West End production stars Heartstopper’s Joe Locke, Ruaridh Mollica, and Sophie Melville under the direction of award-winning Jack Serio.
Creative Learning & Events
The producers of Clarkston have partnered with ATG Entertainment West End Creative Learning to host a range of post-show talks and workshops. Highlights include:
- 5 Nov: Q&A with the cast hosted by Mason Alexander Park
- 10 Nov: “West End Debuts” discussion
- 17 Nov: The Cast on Clarkston talk
If you enjoy exploring theatre careers, you might also like my Stagey Spotlight on Layton Williams and Musical Con 2025 Round-Up.
Dates & Booking Information
📅 Until: 22 November 2025
📍 Venue: Trafalgar Theatre, 14 Whitehall, London SW1A 2DY
🎫 Tickets: Available via Clarkston Play
⏱ Running Time: 90 minutes | Age Guidance: 12+
Listen to Clarkston: The Making of a West End Show
🎧 Listen to Clarkston: The Making of a West End Show today and experience the dedication, passion, and artistry behind London’s latest theatrical triumph. Tickets for Clarkston are on sale now — don’t miss your chance to see it before the final curtain!
