In this episode, Kate and Shimna catch up on a whirlwind week of gigs, recording sessions, and literally building spaceships for an immersive art project. From the chaos of creative collaboration to the importance of connection, they unpack what makes a production truly work — communication, respect, and showing up for your team.

They dive into the balance between creativity and burnout, the power of positive leadership, and why good producers should always come to load-ins. Plus, they share stories from the trenches — building immersive worlds, managing crew morale, finding joy in downtime, and remembering why we all started in the arts in the first place.

This week Kate and Shimna swap stories of croissants in Manchester, festival energy in Belfast, and the wild world of immersive “spaceship” installs. From Anna Lapwood’s viral organ concert to circus-style shows that change every night, they explore how embracing chaos sparks creativity.

They sketch the bones of a new project part soundtrack, part visuals, part movement about creation itself. Along the way, they reflect on freelancing freedom, finding the right environment, and the serendipity of global connections that keep popping up.

Highlights:

• Croissants, puns, and Manchester catch-ups
• Belfast TradFest + surprise guest-list perks
• Viral German organ concert inspiration
• Inside the chaos of immersive art builds
• Circus as a model for flexible storytelling
• The call to build a community of collaborators

💡 Want to collaborate? Send us a short video/voice note with who you are, what you do, and why you want to create.

The Fiddle and the Flame Podcast brings you into the creative fire of live performance. Hosted by co producer Kate Taylor and co producer, fiddle player/storyteller Shimna Higgins, the show explores the craft of making circus, theatre, and music from the first spark of an idea to the blaze of a live audience. Through honest conversations and behind the scenes stories, Kate and Shimna uncover the magic, challenges, and triumphs of bringing bold work to life. Whether you’re a performer, producer, or curious listener, this podcast is your backstage pass to the world where music, storytelling, and spectacle collide.

If you want be part of the project or sign up for exclusive content check out our website here; www.thefiddleandtheflame.com