Just Imagine

Imagine Theatre
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  • Performing Arts
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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 131 - Brad Fitt

    5d ago

    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
  2. Episode 130 - Focus On Title: Goldilocks

    May 12

    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
  3. Episode 129 - UK Pantomime Awards 2026

    Apr 28

    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
  4. Episode 128 - Ste Johnston

    Apr 14

    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
  5. Episode 127 - Matt Ladkin

    Apr 7

    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
  6. Episode 126 - Richie Anderson

    Mar 24

    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
  7. Episode 125a - Celebrating Neurodiversity

    Mar 16

    Episode 125a - Celebrating Neurodiversity

    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.

    36 min
  8. Episode 125 - A Year In The Life Of A Producer - Part One

    Mar 3

    Episode 125 - A Year In The Life Of A Producer - Part One

    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.

    30 min
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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
    133
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Just Imagine
  • Show Website
    Just Imagine

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