Just Imagine

Imagine Theatre
  • 4.6 (5)
  • Performing Arts
  • Updated fortnightly

Just Imagine – a podcast series from Imagine Theatre, one of the world’s leading producers of professional pantomime. With over 250 productions to their name, Imagine are true experts in this uniquely British theatrical tradition. Join host Martin Ballard as we go behind the scenes to meet the people who bring the magic to life – discovering their stories, their roles, and answering that all-important question: what do they do for the rest of the year? Along the way, we’ll explore the pantomime genre itself – its quirks, its history, and why it continues to delight audiences across the UK. Whether you’re a panto fan, theatre lover, or just curious about what it takes to stage hundreds of shows at once, Just Imagine offers a fun and fascinating listen.

  1. Episode 133: A Year in the Life of a Pantomime Producer (Part 2) with Sarah Boden

    3 days ago

    Episode 133: A Year in the Life of a Pantomime Producer (Part 2) with Sarah Boden

    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.

    29 min
  2. Episode 132 - Sustainability

    9 Jun

    Episode 132 - Sustainability

    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.

    28 min
  3. Episode 131 - Brad Fitt

    26 May

    Episode 131 - Brad Fitt

    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.

    33 min
  4. Episode 130 - Focus On Title: Goldilocks

    12 May

    Episode 130 - Focus On Title: Goldilocks

    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.

    36 min
  5. Episode 129 - UK Pantomime Awards 2026

    28 Apr

    Episode 129 - UK Pantomime Awards 2026

    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!

    32 min
  6. Episode 128 - Ste Johnston

    14 Apr

    Episode 128 - Ste Johnston

    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.

    31 min
  7. Episode 127 - Matt Ladkin

    7 Apr

    Episode 127 - Matt Ladkin

    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.

    30 min
  8. Episode 126 - Richie Anderson

    24 Mar

    Episode 126 - Richie Anderson

    Featuring BBC Radio’s Richie Anderson This 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.

    34 min
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Ratings & Reviews

4.6
out of 5
5 Ratings

About

Just Imagine – a podcast series from Imagine Theatre, one of the world’s leading producers of professional pantomime. With over 250 productions to their name, Imagine are true experts in this uniquely British theatrical tradition. Join host Martin Ballard as we go behind the scenes to meet the people who bring the magic to life – discovering their stories, their roles, and answering that all-important question: what do they do for the rest of the year? Along the way, we’ll explore the pantomime genre itself – its quirks, its history, and why it continues to delight audiences across the UK. Whether you’re a panto fan, theatre lover, or just curious about what it takes to stage hundreds of shows at once, Just Imagine offers a fun and fascinating listen.

Information

  • Creator
    Imagine Theatre
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    135
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Just Imagine
  • Show Website
    Just Imagine

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