In this episode, Dr. Amanda is joined on the mic with old friend and casting director for the Ensemble Theatre, Merran Regan, as they discuss the link between performing arts and psychology. As the daughter of an artistic theatre director, Merran shares the history of the Ensemble Theatre in Sydney, Australia as well as life as a casting director and how Covid-19 has affected the performing arts industry. Together, Dr. Amanda and Merran look into the affinity between the worlds of psychology and theatre and their symbiotic relationship. Exploring how each borrow from one another and the power of roles both on and off the stage. Merran explains how actors draw on psychological elements for their performances and we in turn are affected by their performance, sometimes for a lifetime. The Ensemble Theatre has withstood the challenges of the coronavirus with the wonderful support of their patrons. With the highest standards of hygiene and safety in place, you can book tickets to their upcoming shows: AND ANOTHER THING… John Bell 15 Aug 2021 - 22 Aug 2021 ART Andrew Hansen + Craig Reucassel 17 Sep 2021 - 30 Oct 2021 THE CASTING COUCH Todd McKenny + Nancye Hayes 17 Oct 2021 - 25 Oct 2021 NEARER THE GODS David Williamson 05 Nov 2021 - 24 Dec 2021 Book tickets online now: www.ensemble.com.au Listen to Merran's 'In the Spotlight' radio Wednesdays at Northside Radio 4-7pm on FM 99.3 (Sydney only) or online at www.northsideradio.com.au To find out more about Dr. Amanda Ferguson, you can visit her website at www.dramandaferguson.com.au Or connect with her on Facebook or LinkedIn