In early November, an invitation from Mel Nicolaou to the community launch of The Circle at the Curzon Cinema landed in my inbox. I’ll confess, I was curious but also completely unfamiliar with both Mel and The Circle. With a healthy dose of intrigue and no real expectations, I accepted.

As it turned out, the evening was a fascinating introduction to a groundbreaking new British musical penned by the talented duo of multi-award-winning songwriter, musical director, arranger, and vocal coach Rachel Walker Mason and actor, director, interdisciplinary performer, educator, and scriptwriter Eloise Hodder. I was inspired by my conversations with businesswoman Mel, who is seed-funding this exciting venture, and with Rachel and Eloise. Their unwavering belief, infectious passion, and clear vision for The Circle led to my latest blog.

The Circle tells the story of eight women who come together to form a songwriters’ group. While their initial goal is to create music, they soon find themselves forging deep connections that ultimately change the course of their lives.

The musical explores female friendship, empowerment, and finding your voice. It highlights the challenges and triumphs of women of different ages and backgrounds as they navigate their personal and creative journeys.

Interestingly, The Circle also aims to address the underrepresentation of older women in theatre. The creators noticed a lack of meaningful roles for middle-aged women and wanted to create a piece that celebrates their experiences and perspectives.

This isn’t your typical musical. The Circle breaks the mould, offering a raw and honest exploration of divorce and motherhood through the eyes of two divorced women in their 40s. With a story and score drawn directly from the lives of creators Rachel and Eloise, this production promises an authentic and relatable experience that will resonate with audiences long after the curtain closes.

But it is more than just a powerful story. It’s a testament to the power of female voices and a conscious departure from the traditional, male-dominated model of musical theatre. While the project didn’t begin with an all-female team, Rachel and Eloise recognised the importance of amplifying women’s perspectives.

This is a production in which women take centre stage in every role. The creative vision, from writing and composing to directing and design, is entirely driven by female talent. This empowers a new generation of theatre makers and redefines what’s possible on stage.

By choosing independent production through their company, Theatre Builders, Rachel, and Elouise ensure that The Circle remains true to its vision, free from the constraints of corporate influence. This allows for a bolder, more intimate approach, fostering a deeper connection between the artists and the audience.

The Circle is rapidly gaining momentum in the musical theatre world.  In 2023, one of its ballads, Drown Without Water, won the prestigious Stiles and Drewe Best New Song Prize, an award known for recognising exciting new voices in the industry.

This win attracted the attention of Claude-Michel Schönberg, the renowned composer of Les Misérables and Miss Saigon. Schönberg not only championed the musical but also offered a rare masterclass to The Circle’s co-writers, providing invaluable guidance that further refined the show’s score and storytelling. This masterclass, facilitated by Mercury Musical Developments at the Old Diorama Studios, is a testament to the growing belief in The Circle’s potential. 

The musical gained further exposure through a feature on Elaine Paige’s popular BBC Radio 2 show, reaching a broad audience of theatre enthusiasts. This led to Drown Without Water receiving its first national radio play on Sunday, June 30th, a significant step towards national recognition. The song’s haunting melody and powerful lyrics captivated listeners, generating considerable buzz online

and amongst industry professionals. Adding to the show’s impressive credentials is Grammy-nominated artist Divinity Roxx, known for her work as Beyoncé’s musical director. With such high-profile support and continued development, The Circle is poised to become a major force in musical theatre, capturing the hearts and imaginations of audiences worldwide.

The chemistry between Eloise and Rachel was undeniable, and I was eager to uncover the origins of this dynamic duo. Eloise explained

that she and Rachel had met through Abigail Green, the Head of Voice and Singing at University Centre Weston (UCW). Rachel and Abi had been to school together and shared a love of musical theatre. Abi had always recognised Rachel’s talent as a songwriter and had regularly encouraged her to write her own musical.

Years later, when Eloise started working at UCW, she reconnected with Abi – their paths having crossed some 22 years earlier. Seeing the opportunity to finally bring Rachel’s musical to life, Abi introduced Eloise as the ideal person to collaborate with.

Eloise was eager to start and asked for a copy of the script to begin preparing. However, at this stage, there was no script, just a concept and a few songs. Once again, it was Abi who suggested Eloise should write the script, given her experience as a theatre maker with an award-winning career spanning twenty-five years.

In January 2022, Rachel went to Eloise’s home for a five-hour meeting. By the end, she was given four songs and immediately began writing.

Curious about the creative forces behind the musical, I asked Eloise about the unique dynamics she and Rachel brought to the project. Eloise lit up as she described Rachel’s exceptional talent for composing and writing lyrics, emphasising her determined spirit and knack for finding solutions—especially when it came to securing funding. ‘Rachel’s fearless,’ Eloise explained, ‘whether she’s asking tough questions or navigating the complexities of bringing a musical to life. She’s also incredibly savvy when it comes to using social media for promotion and engagement. In this day and age, that’s absolutely crucial for any production hoping to find an audience!’

Eloise, in turn, brings her own expertise to the table. A skilled scriptwriter with a deep understanding of theatrical techniques and styles, she also possesses a keen sense of the business side of theatre, honed by years of experience with funding applications and project management. From assembling a talented cast and crew to overseeing rehearsals and the production itself, Eloise ensures the project runs smoothly.

Together, they form a formidable partnership, their complementary skills and shared passion for theatre driving their success. Backed by a fantastic network of supporters, Eloise and Rachel are a force to be reckoned with in the world of musical theatre.

The Circle delves into the complex realities of many women. The musical intertwines storylines of domestic abuse and coercive control, postnatal depression, and infertility, painting a raw and honest picture of the challenges women face. Yet, at its core, the musical carries a message of hope and resilience. It emphasises the power of community and how women can find strength and solace in one another while navigating these difficult experiences.

Rachel’s personal journey through postnatal depression and Eloise’s harrowing experience with infertility and domestic abuse form the heart of this production. Their stories, woven into the fabric of The Circle, offer a poignant reflection on the transformative power of female solidarity and the ability to find hope amidst adversity.

Now, let’s take a closer look at the individual paths of these two extraordinary women. Their stories, marked by both vulnerability and strength, have profoundly shaped not only their creative partnership but also the very essence of The Circle.

Rachel’s story is rooted in post-natal depression. She was diagnosed in December 2018, a year and a half after the birth of her first child, a daughter, in April 2017. She suffered in silence, too ashamed to tell anyone. She pretended to the world that everything was fine, even while filming a television show, recording an album, and making a music video.

It was only after Rachel’s son was born in October 2018, and she began to feel the same darkness and desperation, that she finally reached out for help. With counselling, medication, and support from loved ones, she feels as if she’s back to her old self – on most days.

Rachel began researching postnatal depression during late-night feedings and realised how common it was and how much support was available. Inspired to help others, she had the idea to set up Lyrical Light, a songwriting workshop for people with pre-and postnatal depression. She used prize money from winning Freelancer of the Year in 2019 to establish the business. She worked with charities like PANDAS Foundation, Mother For Mothers, The Postnatal Project, and hospitals like Southmead and NHS Mother and Baby Units.

Rachel’s personal experience with postnatal depression is truly at the heart of Drown Without Water’ It’s the driving force behind the narrative and the emotional core of the music.

Translating such a raw and internal struggle into a song was definitely challenging but also incredibly cathartic.

Rachel had been exploring the complexities of postnatal depression for the past 7 years, ever since her own journey began after the birth of her daughter. This exploration has taken many forms – articles, books, and of course, music. When writing the musical, she was able to draw not only on her own memories and emotions, but also on the countless conversations she’s had with other parents who have navigated the same difficult waters. She revisited interviews, delved back into journals, and really immersed herself in those experiences.

Every time she sings these songs or even just talks about Drown Without Water, it’s a powerful reminder of how far she’s come. There’s a sense of healing in the process, both for herself and for those who connect with the music.

Eloise’s story is one of unexplained infertility.  After four years of trying, of charting, of hope,all she got was a suggestion for IVF. A wave of frustration and grief washed over her.

Physically and emotionally exhausted, Eloise felt adrift.  But the thought of IVF, of a potential solution, offered a glimmer of hope. She embarked on the journey, joining a community of women who understood the rollercoaster of emotions, the invasive procedures, and the constant uncertainty.

The first round of IVF failed.  Disappointed but determined, Eloise switched hospitals, seeking better odds.  She endured countless injections, follicle measurements, and the emotional toll of Intrauterine Insemination (IUI), all while

navigating the complex world of NHS regulations and postcode lotteries.

Seven years. Seven years of hope and heartbreak of invasive procedures and dashed dreams. The strain took its toll, her marriage crumbling under the weight of it all.  Eloise soldiered on, fielding intrusive questions with a stoic ‘I can’t have children,’ the pain hidden behind a mask of normalcy.

A new relationship brought access to private healthcare and, with it, a renewed sense of possibility.  But during a routine polyp removal, a more serious issue was discovered: submucosal fibroid tumours. Faced with a difficult choice, Eloise opted for a resection, another surgery, another delay in her quest for motherhood.

Months later, with her body healed but her dream still out of reach, Eloise prepared for another round of IVF.  A hysterosalpingogram, a dye test to check her fallopian tubes, was the final hurdle.  Exhausted and cynical, she went through the motions, convinced that her body would fail her once again.

Then, a miracle. A missed period, a casual question from a doctor, a pregnancy test taken almost as an afterthought.  The nurse’s beaming smile said it all.  Against all odds, through years of struggle and disappointment, Eloise was pregnant.  Her daughter, Grace, is a testament to her resilience and a symbol of hope born from years of despair.

Eloise’s experience with domestic abuse adds another layer of depth to The Circle. One scene she highlighted depicts a character named Will demanding receipts from his partner, Sarah. This portrayal of coercive and manipulative control hits close to home for many, sadly reflecting a reality they have or are experiencing.

Eloise expressed her appreciation for the growing awareness surrounding domestic abuse, acknowledging the hidden nature of such scenarios that often play out unseen within homes. She was particularly enthusiastic about the involvement of high-profile figures like Queen Consort Camilla and Melanie B of the Spice Girls in raising awareness about this taboo subject. Ideally, she envisions aligning The Circle with celebrities and charities who champion these causes and share the musical’s core value of female empowerment.

I asked Eloise and Rachel how they would ensure the authenticity and originality of the production while also aiming for commercial success.

They explained that the commitment to authenticity manifested itself in several ways.

The characters, their narratives, and the emotions they express are drawn from their own lives and the experiences of those around them. This deep-rooted connection to reality gives the musical an honesty and relatability that audiences crave.

Extensive workshops, incorporating feedback from diverse audiences and industry professionals, have allowed for the honing of the script, music, and overall flow of the production. This ensures a captivating and emotionally resonant experience for the audience.

Through the development process, they have discovered that their musical has something important to say about the human condition. It explores themes and emotions that resonate deeply with people, making it thought-provoking and entertaining.

Rachel and Eloise did not set out to create a commercial hit; their focus has always been on crafting an authentic and meaningful piece of art. But they firmly believe that by staying true to their vision and understanding their audience, commercial success will follow organically. People connect with stories that reflect their own lives and emotions, and that’s precisely what this musical offers.

I wondered what had been the most rewarding aspect of creating and producing The Circle?

They both felt it was difficult to pinpoint just one rewarding aspect of bringing The Circle to life, as the entire journey has been incredibly fulfilling. However, several elements stood out.

Rachel felt collaborating with Eloise to craft an entirely new story born from their shared experiences has been immensely gratifying. Witnessing their vision take shape and evolve through the combined talents of an exceptional team of writers, cast, and creatives was a truly remarkable experience.

Taking the reins of production has been daunting and exhilarating for both of them, but with Mel’s guidance, they are pioneering a new model of theatre production, one that empowers writers and creators. This model breaks away from the traditional reliance on external producers, allowing artists to retain greater control and equity in their own work.

By challenging the established production model, they hope to inspire other artists to follow suit, paving the way for a more equitable and accessible theatre landscape. This could lead to a greater diversity of stories reaching audiences, enriching the theatrical world as a whole.

Beyond the creative and logistical achievements, the most rewarding aspect for both of them has been the sense of community fostered throughout the process. The shared passion, dedication, and collaborative spirit of everyone involved have created a truly special and supportive environment.

And what has been the most challenging aspect of this journey?

One of the greatest challenges has been balancing the demands of creating and producing The Circle with the realities of everyday life. As independent producers without external funding, they’ve had to juggle multiple roles and responsibilities, often without the luxury of time or financial resources.

They’ve had to wear many hats, handling everything from fundraising and securing venues to managing logistics and coordinating with the cast and crew.

Balancing these demanding tasks with the need to maintain a livelihood and provide for their families has been a constant juggling act, requiring immense dedication and resilience.

Perhaps the biggest hurdle has been the scarcity of time – finding enough hours in the day to make progress on the production while also meeting their personal and familial obligations.

Despite these challenges, they remain undeterred. Their passion for The Circle and their commitment to bringing it to the stage fuel their determination to overcome these obstacles. They view these challenges not as insurmountable barriers, but as opportunities for growth and learning.

We talked about so many fascinating aspects of The Circle, from its music and story to the creative team behind it. But zooming out a bit, I was interested in their broader aspirations for the musical. What kind of impact did they hope it had on audiences, how did they see it developing in the future, and what kind of reach did they envision for it, both within the theatre industry and beyond?

They unanimously saw The Circle as more than just entertainment; it carries messages of hope and acceptance, encouraging women to embrace their individuality without the constraints of societal expectations. They hope it inspires younger generations to forge their own paths with confidence. Furthermore, they hope the production will have a ripple effect within the theatre industry itself, encouraging more women producers, directors, and songwriters and creating opportunities for older female actors.

Beyond its message, the vision for The Circle is to captivate audiences, drawing them back for repeat viewings and attracting those who may be new to musical theatre. The goal is for audiences to come away with a deeper understanding of the issues raised in the show. The initial tour aims to cultivate a dedicated fanbase, paving the way for successful runs in the West End or Broadway.

The musical’s universal themes and wide appeal make it suitable for diverse audiences across the globe. The ultimate goal is to see The Circle performed in multiple cities, languages, and countries, extending its message of empowerment and acceptance worldwide.

As I put the finishing touches to this blog, I’m drawn back to my initial encounter with Mel. Our first conversation unfolded at the Curzon, where curiosity led me to inquire about her connection to The Circle.  She recounted an invitation to an event at Three 6T, a charming women’s boutique in Clevedon specialising in pre-loved designer clothing and accessories. It was there that she first crossed paths with Rachel and Eloise, who were passionately crowdfunding to stage a workshop.

Mel vividly described the moment she heard the poignant melodies of Drowning Without Water. The song’s raw emotion resonated deeply with her own experience of postnatal depression, echoing the struggles her late mother had also faced. Overwhelmed by the song’s power and authenticity, ‘I was a hot mess!’ she knew instantly that she had to be part of this project. With a self-proclaimed ‘nose for recognising something good,’ Mel instinctively felt the undeniable potential of The Circle, a feeling that has only intensified throughout her journey with the production.

Call to Action: Support The Circle Musical and Ignite Change!

The Circle is more than just a musical; it’s a movement. It’s a story of hope, resilience, and the transformative power of human connection. But to bring this powerful story to the stage, Rachel and Eloise need your help!  

As two mums navigating the challenges of making theatre, they’re reaching out to us to help us make The Circle a reality. Your generous support will enable them to take this production on tour, where it can touch countless lives and inspire positive change.

By sponsoring The Circle, you’re not just supporting the arts; you’re investing in a project that amplifies marginalised voices and celebrates the strength of the human spirit.

With your sponsorship, they can:

• Showcase exceptional talent: The cast and crew are dedicated to delivering a captivating performance that will resonate with audiences far beyond the traditional theatre crowd.
• Promote positive messages: The Circle offers a message of hope and resilience, reminding us that together, we can create a better society.
• Expand our reach: With your support, we can reach a wider audience and spread these important messages to those who need them most.

Your contribution will make a real difference. Every penny counts towards:

• Production costs: Set design, costumes, lighting, and technical support are essential for a successful production.
• Marketing and promotion: They must spread the word and get people excited about attending.
• Accessibility: They want to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to experience this powerful play, regardless of their circumstances.

Together, we can bring The Circle to the stage and ignite a wave of positive change.

Please consider sponsoring The Circle today. Every donation, big or small, will help Rachel and Eloise make a difference. These are the bank details you will need:

Account name: Theatre Builders Ltd (A business account) Sort code: 04-00-03 Account number: 41187296 (GB92 MONZ 0400 0341 1872 96

You could also: Visit their website: www.thecirclemusical.co.uk. Follow them on social media: Insta: @thecirclemusical  @theatrebuilders @eloisehodderofficial @rachelwalkermason  Facebook: The Circle Musical Tik Tok:  The Circle Musical

Thank you for your support!

Learning about the birth of The Circle has been an absolute privilege, and I can’t wait to see how this powerful and poignant production unfolds and touches the lives of audiences far and wide.