West End performer Rory Phelan on building a career in musical theatre, surviving the industry & launching Stage Strong | The Business of Show Business Podcast

In Season 6 Episode 2 of The Business of Show Business, Jamie Body sits down with West End actor and fitness coach Rory Phelan to talk about life in musical theatre, building resilience in the industry, and why physical and mental strength matter more than ever for performers.

Rory shares behind-the-scenes stories from starring in:

1. Heathers: The Musical
2. Club Tropicana The Musical
3. Grease
4. Mamma Mia!
5. Saturday Night Fever

Alongside performing in the West End and touring productions, Rory founded Stage Strong — a fitness and mindset coaching programme designed specifically for actors and performers.

Working with clients across the West End, Broadway, and productions on Netflix, Rory helps performers build consistency, confidence and control — approaching the #ActorsLife with more energy, focus and longevity.

In this episode, we cover:

• Breaking into musical theatre

• Staying physically strong during long runs

• Managing rejection and resilience

• The reality of West End life

• Building a business alongside performing

• Fitness for actors & performer wellbeing

If you're an aspiring performer, working actor, or creative building a career in show business — this episode is packed with insight.

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