Just Imagine

Episode 139 – A Year in the Life of a Producer: July, August & SeptemberIn Episode 139 of the Just Imagine podcast, Martin Ballard is joined once again by Imagine Theatre Joint CEO Sarah Boden for the third instalment of our four-part series looking at a year in the life of a pantomime producer.As the summer draws to a close, the countdown to pantomime is gathering pace. Children's auditions are underway across the country, with hundreds of young performers being selected for this year's junior ensembles – and thousands of documents being processed to make sure they're ready to take to the stage.Martin and Sarah explore the many moving parts happening behind the scenes during July, August and September, including casting, children's licensing, costume fittings, music and script choices, backstage recruitment, technical planning and the preparation of sets, costumes, wigs and props at Imagine's production facilities.They also discuss why every pantomime needs to be tailored to its individual venue and audience, from knowing when to keep much-loved traditions such as The Twelve Days of Christmas to adapting backstage teams and technical requirements to suit very different theatres across the UK.There's also a fascinating look at F2 budgeting – the stage of the production year when costs for cast, crew, lighting, sound, transport, costumes and other elements are being locked in – as well as the huge amount of planning required to organise payroll for hundreds of people working across the pantomime season.And, as always with pantomime, there's room for a few last-minute surprises… including the memorable story of the producer who suddenly realised they had forgotten to order a giant!This episode offers another behind-the-scenes look at just how much work goes into getting 21 pantomimes ready to open, long before the audiences arrive.Just Imagine is the podcast series from Imagine Theatre, hosted by Martin Ballard. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and catch up with the previous episodes in the A Year in the Life of a Producer series.

Episode 137 – Susie McKenna: Reimagining Pantomime for a New GenerationIn Episode 137 of the Just Imagine podcast, host Martin Ballard is joined by the acclaimed writer, director and actor Susie McKenna, whose groundbreaking work at the Hackney Empire helped redefine what modern pantomime could be.From her early days performing with her parents and training in Leicester, to becoming a Principal Boy under the mentorship of the legendary Kenneth Alan Taylor, Susie reflects on the experiences that shaped an extraordinary career spanning theatre, musical theatre and pantomime.The conversation explores her journey from performer to writer and director, the creation of the iconic Hackney Empire pantomimes, and how she transformed traditional fairy tales into productions that reflected the communities they served while remaining true to the heart of pantomime.Susie also discusses the importance of storytelling, creating authentic and diverse characters, writing for the actors in the company, and why pantomime should never be afraid to tackle contemporary themes. She shares the inspiration behind some of her most celebrated productions, including Mother Goose, Sleeping Beauty, Puss in Boots and her acclaimed reimagining of Dick Whittington through the story of the Windrush generation.Packed with warmth, humour and fascinating behind-the-scenes insights, this episode is a celebration of creativity, collaboration and the enduring power of pantomime to entertain, inspire and bring communities together.Subscribe now and join us for another behind-the-scenes journey into the wonderful world of pantomime.

Episode 136 – David Ashley: Four Decades as a Pantomime DameIn Episode 136 of the Just Imagine podcast, host Martin Ballard is joined by one of the UK's most respected performers, directors and educators – David Ashley – as he reflects on a remarkable career spanning four decades in theatre and pantomime.From his early days as a chorister with the Royal School of Church Music to starring in major West End productions including Starlight Express, Cats, Me and My Girl and Les Misérables, David shares the experiences that shaped his journey into becoming one of pantomime's most celebrated dames.The conversation explores the craft of creating an unforgettable dame, the importance of storytelling and tradition in pantomime, directing while performing, and why the relationship between the Dame and the Comic is at the heart of every successful production.David also discusses his passion for theatre education, why pantomime deserves greater recognition in actor training, and the lessons he's learned from working alongside some of the industry's finest performers and creatives, including the legendary Susie McKenna.To mark his 40th anniversary at the Wyvern Theatre in Swindon, David reflects on the fitting return of Jack and the Beanstalk—the very pantomime that launched his professional career in 1986.Packed with humour, warmth and fascinating behind-the-scenes stories, this episode is an inspiring celebration of a career dedicated to entertaining audiences and keeping the magic of pantomime alive.

Episode 135 – The Comic: The Heart of Pantomime with Joe Pasquale & Liam DolanWhat makes a great pantomime comic?In Episode 135 of the Just Imagine podcast, host Martin Ballard is joined by two of the UK's most experienced pantomime performers – Joe Pasquale and Liam Dolan – to explore one of pantomime's most beloved stock characters: the Comic.From the origins of the role with Joseph Grimaldi to the slapstick traditions that still delight audiences today, Joe and Liam share their own experiences of creating mayhem on stage while keeping every performance firmly under control.The conversation covers the art of audience interaction, the importance of timing, improvisation and tradition, building unforgettable on-stage partnerships, and why the comic remains the beating heart of every great pantomime.Joe also reflects on working alongside legends including Rod Hull, Ken Dodd and Bob Monkhouse, while Liam discusses the influence of the legendary Krankies and the unique skills required to entertain audiences of all ages.Packed with hilarious stories, fascinating insights and decades of theatrical experience, this episode is an entertaining celebration of the performers who bring laughter, chaos and magic to pantomime every Christmas.

Episode 138: The Little Mermaid – Can a New Pantomime Title Become a Classic?In this episode of the Just Imagine Podcast, we dive under the sea to explore one of pantomime’s newer titles – The Little Mermaid.Martin Ballard is joined by Imagine Theatre Joint CEO Steve Boden and actor, writer and director Fraser Boyle, who wrote Imagine’s production of The Little Mermaid for the Adam Smith Theatre in Kirkcaldy.Originally written by Hans Christian Andersen in 1837, The Little Mermaid is a relatively young fairy tale when compared with many of pantomime’s traditional titles. But with the enduring popularity of the story through Disney’s animated and live-action films, could it become a pantomime classic in its own right?Fraser talks about adapting the original story for the pantomime stage, developing new characters and finding the right balance between the familiar story and the comedy, music and traditions audiences expect from panto. Steve explains the production challenges and opportunities of creating an underwater world, from spectacular sets and costumes to flying and special effects.The conversation also explores why Imagine chose The Little Mermaid for the reopening of the Adam Smith Theatre, how audiences responded to a new title, and why innovation and choice are so important to the future of pantomime.Could The Little Mermaid become a regular fixture in the pantomime calendar? And what does it take for a new title to earn its place alongside Cinderella, Aladdin and Jack and the Beanstalk?Listen now for a fascinating look behind the scenes of creating a new pantomime classic.

Episode 134 – Richard Cadell: Magic, Sooty and the Magic of PantomimeIn Episode 134 of the Just Imagine podcast, host Martin Ballard is joined by one of British entertainment's most recognisable performers – illusionist, puppeteer, actor, writer and the man behind the nation's favourite bear, Richard Cadell.From being crowned Young Magician of the Year and building spectacular stage illusions, to becoming the custodian of Sooty and directing some of the UK's biggest pantomimes, Richard shares the remarkable journey that has shaped his career over the past four decades.Together, Martin and Richard explore the unique relationship between magic and pantomime, the art of bringing a silent puppet to life on stage, why slapstick remains such an important part of family entertainment, and how Sooty has continued to evolve for new generations of audiences.Richard also reflects on directing and performing in pantomime, his favourite panto titles, the realities of producing theatre, and why creating unforgettable memories for young audiences remains the greatest privilege of all.Packed with entertaining stories, behind-the-scenes insights and a genuine love of live theatre, this is a fascinating conversation with one of the industry's most versatile performers.Subscribe now and join us for another celebration of the people who make pantomime so magical.

Just Imagine Podcast – Episode 133: A Year in the Life of a Pantomime Producer (Part 2)In Episode 133 of the Just Imagine podcast, host Martin Ballard is joined once again by Imagine Theatre's Joint CEO, Business & Marketing Director, Sarah Boden, for the second instalment of our special four-part series exploring A Year in the Life of a Pantomime Producer.As the pantomime season begins to gather momentum, Sarah lifts the curtain on what happens behind the scenes during the crucial spring and summer months. From casting decisions, auditions and understudy planning to costume fittings, photoshoots and production meetings, discover the vast amount of preparation that takes place long before rehearsals begin.The conversation also explores the evolving world of theatre marketing, the growing role of AI in production and promotion, the complexities of managing children's auditions and licensing across the UK, and the meticulous planning required to bring 21 pantomimes to life each Christmas.Packed with fascinating insights into the scale, logistics and creativity involved in producing large-scale pantomime, this episode offers a unique glimpse into one of the busiest periods in the producer's calendar.Whether you're a theatre professional, a pantomime enthusiast, or simply curious about what happens behind the scenes, this is an episode not to miss.Subscribe to the Just Imagine podcast wherever you get your podcasts and join us next time for Episode 134, featuring illusionist, actor, writer and Sooty's right-hand man, Richard Cadell.

Episode 132 – Building a Greener Future for PantomimeReleased during Great Big Green Week 2026, Episode 132 of the Just Imagine Podcast sees host Martin Ballard joined by Imagine Theatre Joint CEO Sarah Boden and Operations & Production Administrator Jaz Evans to explore the company's sustainability journey and commitment to greener theatre-making.Following the recent Theatre Green Book assessment of Sleeping Beauty at Stafford Gatehouse Theatre, Sarah and Jaz discuss how sustainability has become embedded in every stage of Imagine's production process — from set, costume and prop reuse to transport, energy efficiency, waste management and long-term planning.The conversation looks at how Imagine Theatre achieved Advanced Status under the Theatre Green Book framework, why collaboration with venues and partners is essential, and how sustainable practices can benefit both the environment and the business. Sarah and Jaz also share insights into the company's ongoing carbon reduction journey, the importance of continual improvement, and their ambitions to roll out the process across more productions in the future.As communities across the UK come together for Great Big Green Week, this episode highlights how the theatre industry can play its part in creating a more sustainable future.For more information and to read the full Production Environmental Impact Report, visit imaginetheatre.co.uk.

Episode 131 of the Just Imagine Podcast features pantomime writer, producer, director and dame Brad Fitt.Host Martin Ballard chats to Brad about his lifelong love of theatre, which began with childhood visits to the pantomime at Norwich Theatre Royal, and the magical moment that inspired his career in entertainment.Brad reflects on his journey from front-of-house usher and stage manager to becoming one of the UK’s best-loved pantomime creatives and performers. Along the way, he shares stories of working with legendary names including Christopher Biggins, Victor Spinetti and Paul Henry, and explains how a chance opportunity at Cambridge Arts Theatre led to his first pantomime script — and eventually his first appearance in a frock!The conversation also explores the enduring traditions of pantomime, favourite titles including Dick Whittington and Mother Goose, the art of playing dame, and why pantomime continues to capture the imagination of audiences generation after generation.A warm, funny and fascinating conversation celebrating the magic, history and heart of British pantomime.

Episode 130 of the Just Imagine Podcast takes a closer look at one of pantomime’s most colourful and fast-growing titles — Goldilocks and the Three Bears.Host Martin Ballard is joined by Scottish actor, singer and director Andrew Agnew — best known to many as PC Plum from Balamory — alongside pantomime historian and curator Simon Sladen for a fascinating discussion exploring the history, evolution and growing popularity of this unique panto title.From its origins in Scottish folklore and Victorian theatre through to the modern circus-inspired spectaculars audiences enjoy today, the episode uncovers how Goldilocks has transformed over the decades. The conversation explores everything from Howard & Wyndham productions and the influence of writer John Morley, to the changing portrayal of the bears and the rise of immersive circus-style pantomime.Andrew also shares behind-the-scenes stories from Imagine Theatre’s ambitious production staged inside a real circus tent in Kilmarnock — including immersive staging, speciality circus acts, technical challenges, stormy Scottish weather and why performing panto “in the round” created such a special experience for audiences.Along the way, the episode celebrates pantomime’s enduring links with circus, clowning and music hall traditions, reflects on the future of immersive theatre, and asks whether Goldilocks and the Three Bears could become one of the defining pantomime titles of the modern era.The episode also features archive contributions from the late pantomime legend Nigel Ellacott, discussing the history and resurgence of Goldilocks on the British stage.A must-listen for pantomime fans, theatre lovers and anyone fascinated by the continuing evolution of Britain’s unique festive artform.

Episode 129 – Live from the UK Pantomime Awards 2026!In this episode of the Just Imagine Podcast, Martin takes you right to the heart of the action at the UK Pantomime Awards 2026 – the biggest night in the panto calendar.From the buzz of the red carpet to behind-the-scenes conversations with some of the industry’s brightest stars, this episode captures the energy, excitement, and celebration of everything that makes pantomime so special. Expect candid chats, standout moments, and a real sense of what it means to be part of the panto community.Plus, find out if we won any awards!Whether you’re a lifelong fan of panto or just curious about what goes on beyond the stage, this is your all-access pass to one unforgettable night.🎧 Tune in now and experience the magic of the UK Pantomime Awards!

Martin is joined by panto comic Ste JohnstonLaughter, graft and life behind the greasepaint take centre stage in this episode of Just Imagine.Martin sits down with Ste Johnston, the much‑loved panto comic, for a brilliant conversation about comedy, confidence and carving out a career that’s anything but ordinary. From winning over family crowds to mastering the art of controlled chaos, Ste shares what it really takes to make people laugh for a living — especially when the audience include children, grand parents, and everyone in between.Whether you’re a performer, a creative, or just someone who loves a good laugh, this episode is a joyous reminder of the power of entertainment to bring people together.🎧 Listen now wherever you get your podcasts.

In Episode 127 of the Just Imagine Podcast, Martin sits down with Lighting Designer Matt Ladkin to explore the creative and technical craft behind lighting that truly transforms spaces and experiences.Matt shares his journey into lighting design and the thinking behind creating atmosphere and emotion through light, this conversation highlights how great lighting goes far beyond illumination — it tells stories, shapes experiences, and elevates everything it touches.Whether you’re a creative professional, producer, designer, or simply curious about what happens behind the scenes, this episode offers insight, inspiration, and plenty of practical takeaways.

Featuring BBC Radio’s Richie AndersonThis week on Just Imagine, Martin is joined by the brilliantly energetic and endlessly warm Richie Anderson, BBC Radio presenter and much‑loved personality from The One Show and BBC Radio 2.In this lively conversation, Richie shares stories from his journey behind the mic, from growing up with a love of performance to becoming one of the BBC’s most recognisable voices and of course his pantomime debut.Whether you’re a theatre fan, a podcast regular, or simply someone who loves a good laugh and an inspiring story, this episode is packed with warmth, insight, and the kind of infectious positivity only Richie can bring.

This bonus episode of the Just Imagine Podcast has been released to mark Neurodiversity Celebration Week.In this special conversation, Martin Ballard chats with actor and director Jason Marc-Williams about neurodiversity, his own lived experience, and how the theatre industry can evolve to better support neurodivergent individuals so their creativity can truly thrive. The episode also features a contribution from Molly Grace Cutler, adding another perspective to the conversation.Together they explore the importance of understanding different ways of thinking, the barriers that can exist within creative industries, and the positive steps that theatre makers and organisations can take to create more inclusive environments.This bonus episode celebrates the strengths, perspectives and creativity of neurodivergent people and highlights why conversations like this are so important across the arts.To learn more about the initiative and the work being done to raise awareness and challenge misconceptions, visit www.neurodiversityweek.com.Listen now and join the conversation.

Welcome to Episode 125 of the Just Imagine podcast – and the start of something brand new.This week marks the first instalment of our brand-new series, “A Year in the Life of a Producer.” Over the coming months, we’ll be lifting the curtain on what it really takes to produce large-scale family entertainment and pantomime across the UK.Producing isn’t just opening night and applause. It’s long-term planning, problem-solving, collaboration, and a huge amount of passion behind the scenes. In this first episode, we set the scene for the year ahead – sharing where the process begins, what’s already in motion, and why this stage of the journey is so crucial.If you’ve ever wondered what actually happens before a show reaches the stage, this series is for you.🎧 Join us as we begin A Year in the Life of a Producer – and discover what it really takes to make the magic happen.

This week on the Just Imagine Podcast, we’re joined by a true British screen and stage favourite – Sue Holderness!Best known to millions as Marlene Boyce in Only Fools and Horses, Sue has enjoyed a remarkable career spanning television, theatre and radio – including appearances in The Green Green Grass, West End productions, touring theatre, and, of course, pantomime!In this episode, Sue shares stories from her time working alongside some of Britain’s most beloved comedy legends, reflects on the enduring legacy of Only Fools and Horses, and talks about her love of live theatre and performing for audiences across the UK. It’s a warm, funny and fascinating conversation packed with behind-the-scenes insights and plenty of laughs.If you love British comedy, theatre, and hearing from the people who’ve helped shape it, this is one you won’t want to miss.🎧 Episode 124 is available now wherever you get your podcasts.#JustImaginePodcast #SueHolderness #OnlyFoolsAndHorses #TheatreLife #PodcastRelease

After producing 21 Christmas shows across the UK, Imagine Theatre Joint CEO's Sarah and Steve Boden sit down with Martin to reflect on the 2025/2026 season.They reflect on the scale of the season just gone and look ahead to what 2026 will bring for Imagine Theatre.A proper behind-the-scenes listen for anyone who loves theatre, creativity and the future of live entertainment.

This week, Martin is joined by two much-loved faces of the Royal Spa Centre pantomime, JP McCue and Sean Dodds, as they take their final bows after a decade of starring in the pantomime each year in Leamington Spa.In this episode, JP and Sean reflect on their time in panto, sharing memories, laughs and behind-the-scenes stories from more than a decade of entertaining audiences. They talk about what makes Leamington Spa so special, how their partnership has evolved over the years, and what it means to say goodbye after their final season.Join us as Martin has a warm, nostalgic and celebratory conversation with this amazing double act that captures the heart of pantomime.

This week, Martin is joined by comedy legend Andy Ford—a true stalwart of British entertainment.Starting in show business at a young age, Andy starred on Jonathan Ross’s Big Big Talent Show in 1997, before going on to appear on The Royal Variety Performance, Havakazoo, Talking Telephone Numbers, Today with Des and Mel, and many more.A beloved favourite of the pantomime world, Andy began his panto career in the 80s and has worked with many icons such as National Treasure Dame Barbara Windsor, Sir David Suchet, David Hasselhoff, Henry Winkler, Louie Spence, Warwick Davis and many others.. He has also shared his incredible journey in his autobiography, Panto’s For Life, Not Just for Christmas.Join us as Andy reflects on decades of laughter, live theatre, television fame, and why panto truly is in his blood.

This week on the podcast, Martin is joined by the fabulous Suzanne Shaw, currently appearing as Fairy Bowbells in Dick Whittington at De Montfort Hall, Leicester.Suzanne is a true all-rounder with an exceptionally varied and fascinating career. She began training in dance and theatre from the age of three, made her television debut at just 12, and shot to fame in 2001 as a member of the chart-topping band Hear’Say. Since then, she has gone on to star in leading roles in major musicals, spent three years in Emmerdale, won Dancing on Ice, and become a familiar face on television as a presenter on shows including Loose Women. More recently, Suzanne has turned her focus to wellbeing, developing her own successful health and fitness brand.Tune in to hear Suzanne reflect on her incredible career, share behind-the-scenes stories, and talk about her enduring love for pantomime.

This week, Martin is joined by the brilliant Elaine C. Smith, a true icon of Scottish showbusiness with a career spanning more than 40 years.Elaine is best known for her standout roles in City Lights, Rab C. Nesbitt, and the hit sitcom Two Doors Down, for which she earned a Scottish BAFTA. She’s also a beloved panto legend, captivating audiences year after year.In recent years, Elaine has been honoured with the Outstanding Achievement Award from the UK Pantomime Association and granted the Freedom of the City of Glasgow—a testament to her lasting impact on stage and screen.Tune in to hear Elaine share stories from her remarkable career and the passion that continues to drive her.

Simon Sladen and David Ashley join Martin on the podcast this week for another deep dive into a classic pantomime title — this time, Aladdin.First staged at Covent Garden in 1788, Aladdin has become one of the most frequently reinvented pantomimes in the canon. Simon and David explore how the show has evolved over the centuries, from shifting settings and new characters to bold reinterpretations in modern productions. They unpack what makes Aladdin such a versatile story and why it continues to captivate audiences year after year as well as the challenges and creative decisions involved in staging it today.

Singer, comedian, impressionist, actress, musical theatre performer and pantomime veteran Hilary O’Neil joins Martin on this week’s podcast. Although she loved to dance as a child, Hilary never initially planned a career in show business. But after training at Laine Theatre Arts, her talent and drive quickly took her into the spotlight — beginning as a dancer with the legendary Ken Dodd. From there her career went from strength to strength including being a founder member of the Stutz Bear Cats and becoming a familiar face on TV in The Fame Game and Copycats, as well as performing in the West End.A passionate pantomime performer, Hilary has now appeared in an incredible 42 productions — and counting! When she’s not bringing festive magic to the stage, she can often be found entertaining audiences aboard cruise ships around the world.

This week, Martin is joined by Divina De Campo and Andy Hockley to dive into one of the most deliciously wicked ingredients of any good pantomime – the panto baddie!Together, they explore the fascinating history of the villain’s role — from the origins of the classic characters to the curious tradition of always entering from the left-hand side of the stage. They’ll unpack the art of playing the baddie, the magic of that love-to-hate dynamic with the audience, and what makes a truly unforgettable pantomime villain.

The UK Pantomime Association recently hosted their second Panto Panel at the North Wall Arts Centre in Oxford, this time shining a spotlight on the art of scriptwriting and Martin was there to talk to some of the country’s top panto writers.A panel of top writers from across the country gathered to share insights into their creative process — from crafting jokes and choreographing slosh scenes to writing stage directions and choosing the perfect songs for panto.All good pantomimes begin with a good panto script and as the Association’s Vice-Chair, Sam Munday-Webb, puts it, panto is “one of the most progressive art forms that changes year on year” and the script is key to this change.So don’t miss this lively and inspiring episode that celebrates the evolving craft of pantomime writing.

Actor, singer, and dancer Anita Harris has enjoyed a remarkable career spanning six decades. From chart-topping hits to memorable roles in the iconic Carry On films, Anita has shared the stage and screen with some of the biggest names in show business, including the legendary Morecambe and Wise.A lifelong lover of pantomime, Anita has appeared in countless productions over the years and still delights in attending them whenever she can. Join us as we explore her extraordinary journey through entertainment, filled with laughter, music, and unforgettable stories.

This week’s guest on Just Imagine is true panto legend, TV presenter, and all-round entertainer Bobby Bennett.Bobby’s love affair with panto began at just seven years old, when he stepped onto the stage for his very first show. From that moment, he built an extraordinary career in showbusiness. In 1964, he made his mark on Opportunity Knocks, and just a few years later became a household name as the presenter of ITV’s popular children’s variety show Junior Showtime (1969–1974).On stage, Bobby first delighted audiences in “silly billy” roles before embracing the much-loved tradition of the panto dame. His favourite role? The outrageous Dame Henrietta in Robin Crusoe, where he shared the stage with pop legend David Essex.Panto isn’t just Bobby’s passion—it’s a family tradition. His daughter, Emma Bennett-Goodridge, now carries that same love into her role as one of Imagine’s very own Marketing Managers.

This week, Martin sits down with Pravesh Kumar, Artistic Director of Rifco Theatre Company, to talk about Surinderella — his brand-new, Bollywood-inspired pantomime, touring this autumn. Produced in association with Imagine Theatre, Wolverhampton Grand, and Watford Palace, the show promises a dazzling mix of East and West. In the episode, Pravesh shares the story behind Rifco Theatre Company, what inspired him to reimagine the classic Cinderella tale, and why he believes panto is the perfect stage for blending his South Asian heritage with his British roots. Drawing on the shared vibrancy of early Bollywood films and traditional pantomime, Surinderella offers a fresh, contemporary twist while keeping all the beloved elements that make panto magical.Pravesh hopes this production will welcome new audiences into the world of panto while delighting long-time fans. With its colourful 

This week on the podcast, Martin is joined by the brilliantly funny Jarred Christmas.Originally from New Zealand, Jarred has called the UK home for over two decades, carving out a successful career as a stand-up comedian. He's a familiar favourite at De Montfort Hall in Leicester, where he's been delighting panto audiences since 2021.In this episode, Jarred chats with Martin about his journey from a shy child to a confident performer, his first taste of pantomime, and how he’s had to adapt his comedic style for the unique world of panto.

This week we are going behind the scenes into the world of the DSM. We are joined by Jazmyne Evans and Kayleigh Alstin who both have a range of experience in theatre including as DSMs. Martin talks to them about how their interest in theatre led to working in stage management, the training they have received, how they developed in the role and just what a day in the life of a DSM is like!

This week Martin is joined by dazzling La Voix. La Voix will be spending her third pantomime season at Wycombe Swan this year for Imagine in Jack and the Beanstalk.La Voix was most recently seen wowing judges in the final of Ru Paul’s Drag Race UK.  No stranger to the screen she has appeared on Michael McIntyre’s Big Show, Celebrity Weakest Link; Queen of The Universe and in AbFab The Movie. She was a Finalist in 2014’s Britain’s Got Talent. Touring with her own shows around the UK, she is also a regular performer onboard P&O Cruise ships and had enjoyed many years performing in pantomime.  

In this episode we explore the rich, provocative history of cross-dressing in theatre with acclaimed author and performance scholar Janet Tennant, author of the book It’s a Drag: Cross Dressing in Performance. From ancient Greek theatre to Shakespearean stages to modern drag performers, gender has always been more fluid under the lights than many realise and has always played a significant role in pantomime in particular. In this episode, Janet dives into the historical and artistic significance of cross-dressing in performance — why it was necessary, how it evolved, and what it reveals about the societies behind the curtains. 

On 19 May Imagine held an open day to mark the official opening of our new home Trafalgar House. We were delighted to be able to welcome many of the people that have been instrumental in Imagine’s growth over the years as well as many of the Trafalgar team who have helped to make the move a reality.On this episode Martin joins Sarah and Steve on a tour of the building, shares highlights from the day and talks to some of the guests about the amazing new building. 

Comedian, actor, presenter and panto legend Joe Pasquale joins Martin on the podcast this week. This season Joe is performing in his first ever Imagine panto, returning to Swansea Grand, where he performed panto alongside Swansea legend Kev Johns 35 years ago. Joe talks through his extensive and fascinating career, from early days on New Faces and being taken under the wing of comedy legends Ken Dodd, Des O’Connor and Bob Monkhouse to winning I’m A Celebrity in 2004 and taking part in Dancing on Ice. He also discusses his approach to panto, his love of the genre and how he overcame his fear of flying to become a pilot! Ahead of starring in Aladdin this Christmas Joe is currently touring with fellow comedians Bradley Walsh, Brian Conley and Shane Richie in The Prat Pack which sold out within a day of going on sale.

This week Simon Sladen and Robert Marsden join Martin to discuss the panto Puss in Boots.One of the rarest pantomimes to be performed in recent times the panto is usually based on the Perrault version of the story from 1697. It is a typical rags to riches tale with baddies, fairies, skin characters, a panto dame, principal boy and a love story. It has a fascinating history and was central in cementing the tradition of the female principal boy with Eliza Povey playing the role in 1823 in Covent Garden and Simon and Robert discuss this history along with some of the problematic themes and morality within the story.

This week Martin is behind the scenes at the UK Pantomime Association Awards at The New Victoria Theatre in Woking. The UKPA Awards are an exciting opportunity for the industry to come together and celebrate this special art form.Amongst others Martin talks to Anita Harris, Elaine C Smith Simon Sladen, Sam Munday-Webb, Ben Goffe, Andrew Ryan and Basil Brush about the awards and their love of the genre.

They say there is ‘nothing like a dame’ and that can certainly be said to be true of pantomime. This episode Martin is joined by two performers who have played the role for many decades, Eric Potts and Iain Lauchlan. They discuss the development of the panto dame from ancient Greek theatre to the dames of the early 19th century, where what we recognise as a panto dame today came into being. They also discuss those performers who have influenced their style of dame and their own individual approaches to playing the role.

In this episode Martin chats to performer Ben Goffe who has recently been nominated as Best Comic in the UK Pantomime Awards for his role as Buttons for Imagine’s production of Cinderella at the Wyvern Theatre in Swindon.Ben comes from a theatrical family and learned to dance at his mum’s dance school from the age of 3. During his career Ben has spent two years with the RSC and two seasons with the National Theatre. A talented musician Ben has also appeared in the West End in the smash-hot Choir of Man where he played the trumpet and tap-danced, and has also made an appearance in Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban

We have reached 100 episodes of the Just Imagine podcast, and to celebrate our host Martin Ballard shares snippets from interviews with some panto legends including Morecambe and Wise, Roy Hudd, Danny La Rue, Larry Grayson, Nigel Ellacott, Bob Monkhouse as well as some favourite panto memories from the Imagine team. Don’t miss out on the special celebratory edition!

This week’s podcast takes place in Coventry, taking you on a tour around our brand new premises and HQ. Martin is joined by Sarah and Steve Boden who will be talking about the move and the need for a bigger space to house all of Imagine Theatres sets, costumes, props and office staff.In this episode Martin gets an exclusive look at the new Imagine Theatre HQ, with a guided tour by Sarah and Steve and gets an understanding for the much needed move.

This week’s podcast subject is set design and Martin is joined by award-winning set designer Ian Westbrook. Ian has designed for theatre, television and film since 1985 and despite working on some high-profile productions he retains a deep fondness for panto and has designed a number of sets for Imagine Theatre in recent years. In this episode Martin learns how Ian came to be a set designer, how the design process and technology has changed since Ian first started in his career and the process he uses himself when designing sets.

This week some familiar voices return to the podcast as Robert Marsden and Mairi Cowieson join Martin to talk about Sleeping Beauty. Variations of the story have existed for hundreds of years all over the world. Rob and Mairi discuss the different ways in which they and others have approached the pantomime and the way the pantomime is forever evolving in line with the changing attitudes of the audience.

This week Martin catches up with Steve and Sarah Boden to talk about how the 2024 season has gone.The 2024/25 panto season saw Imagine create their first ever panto in a big top circus tent, perform two brand new titles in Goldilocks and the Three Bears and Robin Hood and produce the first ever panto in the brand-new Fareham Live alongside continuing to develop their digital sets with the additional of digital versions of Aladdin and Jack and the Beanstalk.They discuss all this, as well as what the team gets up to now the shows have closed and the exciting news that Imagine HQ is relocating to larger premises in Coventry within the next few months.

This week Martin catches up with some of the cast of Beauty and the Beastie in Glasgow: Liam Dolan, Valissa Scott and Nikki Auld.The Pavilion panto is a big part of festive tradition for many Glasgwegians as well as the actors themselves – this year is Liam Dolan’s twenty-sixth panto with Nikki just pipping him having done twenty-eight! With the longest run of any of all of the Imagine pantomimes is not surprising to learn the cast are more like family than friends and Martin talks to them about why they love it so much and why the Pavilion panto in particular is so special. 

This week Martin is joined by The Chase’s Jenny Ryan who is spending the festive season in Crewe as The Enchantress in Beauty and the Beast.Jenny talks to Martin about how she was influenced by theatre from a young age due to her grandparents links with the Octagon in Bolton, how she came to be one of the legendary Chasers and about why panto and live theatre in general is so special to her and the different ways in which a theatre visit for a child can inspire and enrich them.

This year due to the refurbishment of the Palace Theatre in Kilmarnock East Ayrshire Leisure took the decision to do pantomime in a big top circus tent – and what better panto to choose than Goldilocks and the Three Bears, a panto set in a circus!Martin talks to director and dame Andrew Agnew; Goldilocks herself, Ailsa Erskine, who is making her professional panto debut; Gary Morrison who is appearing in his tenth Kilmarnock panto and Craig McDougall who returns as part of the Killie panto team to play the ringmaster, to talk about the benefits and challenges of producing panto in the big top and how much they are enjoying the show! Listen now!

Andy Hockley is a hugely experienced theatre and TV actor, despite having originally trained in theatre design. He has appeared in 18 pantomimes at The Belgrade since 1989 in a variety of roles including both dame and baddie and this year he is playing King Rat in Dick Whittington.As well as pantomime Andy has appeared in some of the UK’s most popular musicals and is possibly the longest serving Wizard in Wicked in the West End having been in over 1,000 performances. He also appeared in The Phantom of the Opera on tour and the West End followed by Chitty Chitty Bang Bang before his long stint in Wicked.Andy talks to Martin about his vast career and deep affection for pantomime as well as what it is like working with panto legend Iain Lauchlan.

This week Martin is joined by two choreographers, Mitchell Harper and Claire Darcy.Mitch has a wide range of choreography experience from opera and musicals to pantomime. Claire has been appearing in the Inverness panto since she was a child and has appeared in over 1,000 performances at Eden Court - going on from being a member of the Junior Ensemble to a professional performer and now also their choreographer.In this episode Mitch and Claire discuss the processes and methods involved in creating the routines for panto, how they are influenced by the music choices, the special effects and the performers themselves and much more!