267. Expert Episode - Raffaella Covino

This week, Bobby and Steffan are joined by the incredible Raffaella Covino, retired performer turned mental health trailblazer and founder of Applause for Thought.After a 13 year career spanning the West End, UK, and international stages, Raffaella hung up her performance shoes to take on something even bigger: improving the mental health landscape of the performing arts industry.Her credits include standout productions like The Sound of Music, In the Heights, Hairspray, On the Town, RENT, A Monster Calls, Peter Pan and A Christmas Carol. Known for her work as a swing, understudy, dance captain and associate, she brings a rare depth of understanding of the industry’s demands and the support it often lacks.Now, as the founder of Applause for Thought, a multi award winning mental health organisation, Raffaella is driving change from the inside out. 💬In this episode:Her personal journey from performer to mental health advocateWhat sparked the creation of Applause for ThoughtWhy mental health support in the arts must go beyond reactive measuresHow companies and creatives can build mentally healthy rehearsal roomsWhat proactive, preventative and passionate support actually looks likeThe future of wellbeing in the theatre industryWhether you’re a performer, creative, educator or employer, this one is essential listening.📩 Got questions or want to connect?Drop us an email at [email protected]