Episode 137 – Susie McKenna: Reimagining Pantomime for a New Generation

In 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 Dame

In 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 Dolan

What 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 134 – Richard Cadell: Magic, Sooty and the Magic of Pantomime

In 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 Pantomime

Released 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 Johnston

Laughter, 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.