The Big Smoke Variety Show
The Big Smoke Variety Show is a one-of-a-kind podcast hosted by theatre director and Canadian living in London, Kevin Bennett, blending the playfulness of classic TV variety shows with the depth of a cultural salon. Each episode features fascinating interviews — with guests like the former Ravenmaster of the Tower of London Christopher Skaife, Olivier Award-winning actor Giles Terera, clothier and BBC’s Great British Sewing Bee star Patrick Grant — plus authors, historians, entertainers, scientists, and experts of all kinds.
You’ll also hear regular recurring segments on everything from the newest branch of neuroscience — neuroaesthetics — and how it can change your life, to one of London’s licensed Mudlarks sharing the historic treasures he’s found in the River Thames.
Expect lively conversations, surprising stories, and original comedy — from hilarious sketches to mini radio plays. If you love discovering big ideas, quirky characters, and the rituals that bring us together, this podcast is for you.
In a world driven apart by social media algorithms, The Big Smoke Variety Show invites you to gather, laugh, and hear stories you won’t find anywhere else.
Listen on:
Episodes
Friday Sep 06, 2024
Friday Sep 06, 2024
Welcome to The Big Smoke Variety Show! In this episode, "Change in Muddy Waters", we bring together two remarkable guests for an evening of historical discovery, refugee empowerment, and personal journeys.
First, we dive into the world of Sean Clark, a licensed mudlark with a passion for uncovering the hidden stories of 17th-century London. Sean has spent years along the banks of the Thames, discovering unique and historical artifacts that once belonged to the city’s long-forgotten inhabitants. Sean shares his mudlarking adventures, bringing along some precious objects and revealing the untold stories of the lives that slipped into the river centuries ago. His fascinating finds give new life to the past, reminding us how small discoveries can spark big revelations.
We also welcome Anil Qasemi, Project Lead for Afghan Resettlement at USPUK. A survivor and recent refugee himself, Anil uses his experiences to empower and assist fellow refugees, offering vital information and guidance through challenging transitions. An entrepreneur and former award-winning journalist, Anil has contributed to major publications while also founding HATOPIA, an online headwear provider. His dedication to helping others rebuild their lives makes him a powerful voice in both the humanitarian and entrepreneurial worlds.
Find us on Instagram: @thebigsmokevariety
Click here to come to one of our live shows!
Disclaimer: this episode contains descriptions of violence.
Friday Sep 06, 2024
Friday Sep 06, 2024
Welcome to The Big Smoke Variety Show! In this episode, "Wild City, Ghost Town", we bring together two outstanding guests for an unforgettable evening of urban wildlife, poetry, and community activism.
We welcome Florence Wilkinson, writer, filmmaker, and co-founder of the birdsong recognition app Warblr. Florence will share insights from her acclaimed book Wild City: Encounters with Urban Wildlife, exploring the hidden natural world of cities and the fascinating stories that lie within.
And, we dive into the captivating world of Nigerian-born poet Fuad Busoir, a rising star in the poetry scene. Winner of UniSlam 2024, Fuad’s powerful piece Ghost Town moved judges to tears, and his work consistently explores the physical and emotional spaces that shape us. As the founder of the community For Black Boys, Fuad is passionate about creating spaces for Black men to express, heal, and grow.
Find us on Instagram: @thebigsmokevariety
Click here to come to one of our live shows.