The Panto Podcast: Recent Episodes
Hayden Parker
For the last episode I have variety royalty for you. The legend himself Norman Barrett MBE.
Norman tells me how his act began, his daredevil stunts and taking his responsibilities as a ring master seriously.
You can support the podcast for the next series by going to www.PayPal.me/pantopodcast
Your help will allow more episodes to go ahead. Thank you everyone!
Writer, director and seasoned pantomime dame, Paul Tate is this weeks guest. He tells me how he likes word play, the difficulty with directing and getting jobs because he was pretty.
It is a very emotional episode, for which I'd like to thank Paul for his openness and honesty.
You can find out more about Paul at his website http://www.paultateproductions.co.uk
And you can see Paul in Beauty and the Beast in Canterbury this year (2021) Click here to book tickets https://malthousetheatre.co.uk/event/beauty-and-the-beast/
Magician, writer and actor John Archer is this weeks guest. He tells me how he first got in to magic, a big career change and I find out the real reason why he isn't going back to pantomime this christmas.
Here's a link to John's website https://www.john-archer.com
and you can follow John on Twitter https://twitter.com/TheArchini
Radio presenter, Dame, impressionist, writer and comedian Terry Gauci is this weeks guest.
He tells me how he got taught how to dance, doing something different in an audition
and you’ll find out that you never know where performing can take you.
You can see Terry in his 8th year in this years pantomime Sleeping Beauty (2021)
https://thelittleboxoffice.com/kdtheatre/event/view/119676
You can follow him on Twitter/Instagram/Facebook here
https://twitter.com/terrygauci
https://www.instagram.com/terrygauci/
https://www.facebook.com/MCTerryGauci
My guest for this episode is puppeteer Ronnie LeDrew.
In this episode Ronnie tells me how he became a top puppet operator, the story of his involvement with the iconic Zippy and offers plenty of advice for getting in to the industry
You can find more about Ronnie at his website www.ronnieledrew.com
You can buy his book 'Zippy and Me: My Life Inside Britain's Most Infamous Puppet'
https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/178352698X/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_EYJB72JBYQ9AY2QF64VC
And to learn more about puppetry here are the links that Ronnie talks about in the episode
https://www.puppeteersuk.com/
https://www.britishpuppetguild.org.uk/
The legend Jess Conrad OBE is my guest for this episode. We chatted in the grounds of his home, so you’ll hear the birds tweeting and the odd train now and then. He tells me about starting in rep, working with Charlie Drake and of course looking after himself.
There are a couple of naughty words in this episode, so you've been warned.
Jess has a website where you can find out more information about him and buy signed merchandise http://jessconrad.com/2main.html
You can also follow Jess on Twitter https://twitter.com/Jessconradcom
Ben Goffe is this weeks guest.
With 21 years in the business, Ben tell me about being given the chance to perform Shakespeare, being part of a chart topping group and his aspirations on becoming a director.
You can follow Ben on Twitter https://twitter.com/ben_goffe
and on Instagram https://instagram.com/bengoffe
The hilarious Johnnie Casson is this weeks guest. He tells me how he likes to keep his act clean, working with The Beatles and how he loved playing Dame.
Actor, director and producer Susie McKenna is this weeks guest.
In this episode she tells me about her beginnings as a Pontins Bluecoat, playing a fearless principal boy and how she's always keen on learning on the job.
You can follow Susie on Twitter https://twitter.com/McKennaSusie
The big 100 and we celebrate this milestone with the legend himself, Christopher Biggins
Celebrating 50 years performing pantomime, Christopher tells me about his most emotional songsheet moment, the real reason he first got into pantomime and why you should never use a catapult to fire sweets in to an audience.
You can follow Biggins on Twitter https://twitter.com/onebiggins
You can see him in the pantomime Jack and the Beanstalk in Dartford this year (21/22) Click here to book tickets https://orchardtheatre.co.uk/Online/kent-pantomime
You can listen to his podcast Show and Tell here https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/show-and-tell-with-christopher-biggins/id1571126310
The musical funny man (and Dame) Pete Lindup is my guest for this weeks episode.
He tells me about his move to Blackpool, the preparation to become a Dame and his love of old school variety.
The hilarious Dame, actor and voice over artist Bob Golding is this weeks guest. He tells me about his wide ranging voice career, how he likes to play Dame as a geezer in a dress (his words) and how he became Eric Morecambe in the Olivier Award winning West End production. We giggle like little schoolboys (even getting told off by a neighbour for being up late too)
You can see Bob in pantomime this year (2021/22) at the Royal & Derngate, click here to book tickets https://www.royalandderngate.co.uk/whats-on/dick-whittington/
You can follow Bob on Twitter https://twitter.com/Bobsickle
Find him on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@bobgolding
And you can find out more about Bob
https://www.olivia-bell.co.uk/talent/bob-golding/
Movie star and acclaimed musician Rusty Goffe is this weeks guest. With 53 pantomimes under his belt and currently in retirement, he tells me how he was musical as a child, carrying others and getting some amazing advice from Roy Kinnear.
This week Beryl Johnson is my guest. She tells me about sharing the stage with many great comedians, how she met the impresario Duggie Chapman and I find out who really was the boss.
The original Jack of all trades, Chris Firth is this weeks guest. In this episode he tells me about his amazing skills communicating to overcome language barriers, meeting his wife through pantomime , and how knocking on a stage door can change your life forever.
‘Supersonic’ Syd Little tells me about his extensive career, the sad loss of his comedy partner Eddie Large and how he’s never been so busy with reality shows.
Celebrating 50 years of making stage wear, Neil Crossland is this weeks guest. He tells me why he set up his company Stagewear Unlimited, playing guitar and having one of the most famous customers in the world.
The wonderful Anita Harris is my guest for this episode. She tells me what it was like working in Las Vegas as a youngster, the privilege of being in the wings watching so many household names and how a chance meeting led to her being part of movie history.
You can follow Anita on Twitter https://twitter.com/theanitaharris
Comedy actor, writer and singer Neil Hurst is this weeks guest. He tells me all about how he started incorporating comedy in to his act, sustaining panto injuries and dealing with form filling after a song sheet.
You can find more about Neil at his website https://www.neilhurst.com
You can follow him on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/neilhurstactor
And you can see him this year (2021/22) at Hull New Theatre, Click here to book tickets https://www.hulltheatres.co.uk/events/snow-white-and-seven-dwarfs
Writer, Pantomime Dame and world famous cover girl Joe Standerline is this weeks guest. Joe tells me about hoarding, writing and the sensitivity surrounding pantomime (oh and listen out for a snoring doggy).
You can see Joe in pantomime at Bridlington spa this year (21/22), click here to book tickets https://www.bridspa.com/events/?entry=spx_256203
You can find more about Joe at his website http://joestanderline.co.uk
Follow him on Twitter https://twitter.com/standerline
And purchase his books https://www.amazon.co.uk/Joe-Standerline/e/B0034Q3X2Y%3Fref=dbs_a_mng_rwt_scns_share
Funny lady Dee Quemby is my guest for this episode. She tells me about theatrical life in the Midlands, working with a certain Billy Breen, and the issue of casting of older women in the acting profession.
You’ll find the photos that we talk about on the YouTube version of the podcast.
To purchase a copy of Dee's book, here's the link
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Im-Ready-My-Close-Up/dp/1425977820
Comedy magician and pantomime star Russ Brown is this weeks guest.
Russ tells me of his love for the art form, playing a Dame and we talk about the importance of magic and its inclusion in pantomime.
You can find out more about Russ and where he’s next appearing at his website http://www.russbrownmagic.com
This week's guest is Dan Cunningham, better known to many as his hilarious creation Miss Rory.
Dan tells me about his leap into entertainment full time, the transition from adult panto to family friendly shows and what it was like to be performing at one of the UK's biggest theatres, the Sunderland Empire.
You can follow Miss Rory on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/missroryblvd/?hl=en
https://www.facebook.com/RealMissRory
You can see Miss Rory on stage at Sunderland in Snow White (2021-22) https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/snow-white/sunderland-empire/
And also at Boulevard in Newcastle
https://www.boulevardnewcastle.co.uk/the-show
Comedy royalty Tommy Cannon is this weeks guest for the return of the podcast.
He tells me how the double act came about, how he's a giggler and the sad loss of his best friend and comedy partner Bobby Ball.
I would like to thank Tommy for his openness in this interview.
You can follow Tommy on Twitter
https://twitter.com/thetommycannon
and you can see Tommy on tour along with Stu Francis and Johnnie Casson in the show Laugh Me A Laugh https://www.chortle.co.uk/shows/tour/l/31358/_laugh_me_a_laugh
© The Panto Podcast 2021
Any use of this interview by media outlets, must be cleared by email to pantopodcast@hotmail.com
My guest for the final episode of this series is Dame, writer and master of various theatrical jobs Brad Fitt. He tells me how he's ended up falling into various theatre jobs, how he'd like to be a baddie one day and the accolade of being in an episode of Have I Got News For You.
You can find more out about Brad at his website https://www.bradfitt.com
His Twitter https://twitter.com/bradfitt
And you can book tickets to see Beauty and the Beast at Theatre Severn (2021-22) with this link https://www.theatresevern.co.uk/shows/whatson/beauty-and-the-beast
Danny Rogers is my guest for this episode. He tells me about his first appearance on stage, his love of patter songs and of course we speak about his father, the legendary Ted Rogers.
You can find out more about Danny and his show Bin and Gone at
https://www.binandgoneplay.co.uk
And you can follow Danny on Twitter at
https://twitter.com/dannyrogers9
Writer and performer Tom Whalley is this weeks guest. He tells me what it was like being a young Dame, superstitions, his writing process and working for 'The Mouse'.
You can follow Tom on Twitter https://twitter.com/thetomwhalley
You can find more out about his script services at https://www.tomwhalleypantomimes.com
And you can see Tom at Sunderland Empire in Snow White (2021/22) https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/snow-white/sunderland-empire/
Martin Cabble Reid is my guest for this episode. He tells me how a comedy course changed his life, working with a famous fox and how dressers should be treating talent.
You can find out more about Martin and follow him on social media
https://twitter.com/martincabble
https://www.martincabblereid.co.uk
https://www.ramblehappy.co.uk
And here's a link to Martin's charity The Kevin Cruise Foundation if you'd like to make a little (or big) donation
https://www.kevincruisefoundation.org.uk
Celebrating his 50th year in the business, Pantomime Dame, Director and actor Mervyn Francis is my guest for this weeks episode. He tells me how the business has changed, his directing style and playing his dream role, Mother Goose.
For this special Christmas Day gift to you, Richard Cadell is my guest for this episode. He tells me about how his showman skills allowed him to pursue a successful career as an illusionist, sleeping in a cold caravan and how owning your own bit of beach comes in handy.
You can find out more about Sooty and where you can see him (with Richard)
https://www.thesootyshow.co.uk
The Sooty Show YouTube channel
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0H8Df50rTfyqUfMt8AfF9Q
The Facebook page
https://www.facebook.com/sootyshowofficial/
The Twitter page
https://twitter.com/Sootyandco
And after listening to his story, you can leave via the Sooty gift shop
https://sootyshop.com
Clowning royalty Charlie Cairoli Jnr is my guest for this episode. He tells me what life was like growing up with a dad who was a practical joker, what makes a good clown and meeting Princess Diana when he had a custard pie in his hand.
Ceri Dupree is my guest for this weeks episode. He tells me how a random fancy dress party started a career path, his dreams of playing Mother Goose and he reveals the name of his autobiography (if he ever gets round to writing it).
There are some saucy words in this episode (but nothing too risqué).
You can see Ceri in Sleeping Beauty this year (20/21) at Southampton's Mayflower Theatre https://www.mayflower.org.uk/whats-on/sleeping-beauty-pantomime-2020/
You can follow Ceri on Twitter https://twitter.com/ceridupree
Juggler and comedian Steve Royle is this weeks guest. He tells me about how he started juggling ping pong balls, bringing Dan Leno back to the stage and how he once had a proper job.
This episode was recorded before Steve performed in the Britain's Got Talent Semi-Finals, where he ended up in 3rd place in the final.
You can hopefully see Steve performing at Pantomonium! The Pantomime at Blackpool's Grand Theatre. Click here for tickets https://www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk/event/pantomonium-2020
His show 'Naturally Insane The Life of Dan Leno' Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/danlenoaroyaljester/
You can follow Steve on Twitter https://twitter.com/steveroylecomic
and visit his website http://www.steveroyle.com for details of his upcoming tour
Actor CJ de Mooi is this weeks guest. He tells me all about his passion for acting, creating the baddie character for the television show Eggheads and spreading positive vibes.
You can follow CJ on Twitter
https://twitter.com/cjdemooi
Visit his website
http://www.demooi.co.uk
View his Spotlight
https://www.spotlight.com/profile/9330-8942-4894
And join CJ's Happy Place on Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/CJHappyPlace/
The very cheeky Tam Ryan is my guest for this weeks episode. We chat about his time as comic, the challenges he likes to set himself and the joys of being an understudy to a household name.
You can see Tam in Elf at the Winter Gardens Blackpool this season (2020) and here's the link for tickets https://www.wintergardensblackpool.co.uk/whats-on/elf-the-musical
And you can book for Cinderella (2021-22) here https://www.wintergardensblackpool.co.uk/whats-on/cinderella
You can follow Tam on Twitter https://twitter.com/tamryan28
on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/tamryan28
and his YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZFthNzyyupj0angu_bFmiw/videos
In this episode the versatile circus performer and magician Andrew Van Buren talks about the history of his family and the parallels with the inventor of circus Philip Astley, shyness and possibly the most moving song sheet story you'll ever hear.
You can find more about Andrew and the family history at the website https://www.vanburen.org.uk
Andrew's YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1ZiPgGW2LjzWB_299cmupA
and the link to The Philip Astley Project https://www.philipastley.org.uk
The Welsh Prince of Laughter, Wyn Calvin is my guest for this episode. Recorded a week before his 95th birthday, Wyn tells me how he got started in the business, sharing some of his wonderful stories and advice for performers.
I would like to thank Wyn and his wife Carole for their hospitality and to David Lloyd-Jones for making this interview possible.
If you have enjoyed this episode, please click this link to make a donation to Noah's Ark, the Children's Hospital Charity of which Wyn is a founder of https://noahsarkcharity.org/our_people/wyn-calvin-mbe-ostj/
Children's television legend Basil Brush is my guest for this episode. We talk about who he's loved working with over the years, his various 'Misters' and winning over audiences.
Basil is appearing in Cinderella at Theatre Royal Windsor, click here to book tickets https://theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk/cinderella-2020/
You can find out more about Basil and where he's next appearing at his website
https://www.basilbrush.com
You can follow him on social media
https://twitter.com/realbasilbrush
https://www.facebook.com/realbasilbrush/
And you can see Basil on his own YouTube channel
https://www.youtube.com/basilbrushofficial
I would also like to thank Michael Windsor and Jonathan Owen for their help making this episode possible.
Celebrating 50 years in the business, legendary Pantomime Dame, comedy historian and radio presenter Paul Harris is my guest for this episode. We chat about his famous book (that should be gracing your shelves), the feedback he was given by his science teacher at an after dinner speech and why you should never ask Paul for help with a chandelier.
You can buy a copy of The Pantomime Book on Amazon https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/0720613191/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_U_TE5GEb6ZCPTMX
Father and son double act Simmons and Simmons are my guests for this penultimate episode of this series.
In this episode we talk about Keith’s 50th pantomime and Ben’s 20th, how joining the act happened and how their partnership has evolved.
You can find more about them and where they're next performing at their website http://www.simmonsandsimmons.org.uk
You can follow them on Twitter https://twitter.com/sasKeithandBen
And you can hear their song Pantomime by following this link http://www.simmonsandsimmons.org.uk/pantomime-song/4594751092
Theatre Director Ken Alexander is my guest for this episode.
We talk about writing & editing pantomime, getting the best from his crew and the biggest difference between pantomime in Scotland and England.
You can follow Ken on his Twitter https://twitter.com/kenalexdirect
You can book tickets to see Sleeping Beauty at the Gaiety Ayr (20-21) here https://uk.patronbase.com/_GaietyAyr/Productions/SB1/Performances?_ga=2.93273693.1310240162.1587504651-1963412820.1587504651
World renowned ukulele player and pantomime star Andy Eastwood is my guest for this episode.
He tells me how he was first introduced to this wonderful little instrument, being taught to self edit from the master of comedy and his love of performing pantomime.
You can find more about Andy at his website http://www.andyeastwood.com
You can follow him https://twitter.com/AndyEastwoodUK
And you can watch him in action at his YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCr2MLpiwysLPmD3E5rNLrLw
This episode contains a clip of Leaning On A Lamppost written by Noel Gay, performed by Andy Eastwood GBDJL0700004 under licence.
Actor, impersonator, writer, historian, Pantomime Dame, West End star, Small Screen star and Movie Star (it's a long list) the very amusing David Benson is my guest for this weeks episode.
We talk about his long career, what it was like to perform for Her Majesty and writing pantomime.
We do talk about some adult themes in this episode, so whilst not explicit, I would not recommend this episode to listeners under the age of 18.
You can see The Dad's Army Radio Show by following this link https://www.dadsarmyradioshow.co.uk/tour-dates/
And to see Cato Street 1820 https://www.catostreet1820.co.uk
The hilarious (and very fast talking) Kev Orkian is my guest for this episode. He tells me what happens when you have a well educated child up for the song sheet, his academy to teach the noble art of panto to the next generation and what it's like to perform pantomime to an international audience.
You can follow Kev on Twitter
https://twitter.com/TheKevOrkian
and find out more about Kev and where he’s performing at his website
http://kevlive.com
You can see Kev this year at the Thursford Christmas Spectacular, click here for more details and to buy tickets
https://www.thursford.com/christmas-spectacular/
Tickets for the rescheduled 2021 Australian Pantomime can be found here
https://www.ozpanto.com/shows/snow-white-and-the-seven-dwarfs/
And the link for The Panto Academy https://www.howlinentertainment.com/
Scottish character actor and Dame Alex Robertson is my guest for this weeks episode. He tells me about the transition from pit to performing on stage, his friendship with a previous guest and how he behaved when he was a child attending pantomimes.
You can follow Alex at his Twitter account https://twitter.com/alexrcomedy
Hollywood movie star and pantomime actor Chris Rankin is my guest for this weeks episode.
He tells me about his first day on the set of Harry Potter, his love of villainy and the pantomime performers who were the inspiration for his career.
You can follow Chris on Twitter https://twitter.com/chrisrankin
His YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/thatgingerbloke
His instagram https://www.instagram.com/cwrankin/
and find out even more about him and where he's appearing at his website https://www.chrisrankin.co.uk
Award winning Pantomime producer Paul Hendy is my guest for this episode.
He tells me about his first role in pantomime, which was playing King Rat at the age of 18, how he helped Ant & Dec to stage one of TV's biggest wind ups during a pantomime and I can promise you'll never watch a blockbuster Hollywood film in the same way again.
I would also like to thank Paul for his valuable time and support with the project.
Here's a link for Evolution and the shows they produce https://www.evolution-productions.co.uk
And you can watch the short film The Last Laugh for free here https://vimeo.com/210409977
Pantomime stalwart, comedy and Crackerjack (CRACKERJACK!!!) legend Stu Francis is my guest for this weeks episode. I find out all about his pantomime career, working with monkeys and how that famous catchphrase came about.
Preparing for semi-retirement, circus owner Mark Whitney is my guest for this episode.
Here’s a link for his Twitter page
https://twitter.com/mrmarkwhitney
And you can find out when Planet Circus is coming to a town near you http://planetcircus.uk
With 16 pantomimes under his belt, former Bluecoat, comedian and writer Phil Walker is my guest this week.
We talk about summer seasons, performing to children and what life was like growing up with a famous Dad.
You can find more about Phil at his website www.phil-walker.com
You can follow him on Twitter https://twitter.com/Philwalkercomic
And you can order his book The Snots here http://tiny.cc/njzuiz
Actor, director and vocalist Joseph Hodgkinson is my guest for this episode. We talk about crafting the role of baddie, his Boy George tribute and having a sleep over in a theatre.
You can find more about Joseph at his Facebook page, just search for Joseph Hodgkinson
and his Instagram https://instagram.com/joseph_hodgkinson
Entering his 51st year as a performer, Pantomime legend Andy Ford is my guest for this episode.
He tells me how he went from entertaining other children in his back garden to appearing at the Royal Variety Performance. We also talk extensively about pantomime and his love of comedy.
You can find out more about Andy, where he's touring and to buy his DVD's at https://www.andyfordcomedian.com
His Confidence Through Comedy course https://www.confidencethroughcomedy.com
and you can follow him on Twitter https://twitter.com/andyfordlive
Pantomime Dame for over 20 years, Richard Aucott is this weeks guest. we talk about his love of this wonderful art form, his costume making and how forced cods aren’t for him.
You can follow Richard on his Twitter
www.twitter.com/damerichard
Appearing in his 50th professional pantomime in 2019, David Burton tells me how being the son of a Tiller Girl and comedian gave him a good grounding to get into the business. We talk about writing comedy, his diagnosis of cancer and how he beat it and what was worse to work with, either an elderly animal or a troublesome actor.
One of TV's best loved baddies Anne Hegerty is my guest for this weeks episode. We chat about how she surprisingly got into pantomime, how the public of all ages have taken to her and the full story behind that rather naughty question on The Chase.
You can follow Anne on Twitter https://twitter.com/anne_hegerty
The UK's only Drag Dwarf, Jamie John is my guest this week. We talk about his love of performing, his alter ego Miss DQ and confronting bullies.
You can follow Jamie on Twitter https://twitter.com/jamiejohn4u
He's in pantomime at the Birmingham Hippodrome (19/20) click here to book tickets https://www.birminghamhippodrome.com/calendar/snow-white-the-seven-dwarfs/#performances
And you can see Jamie performing in 2020 with The Ladyboys of Bangkok, click here to book tickets https://www.ladyboysofbangkok.co.uk/tour/
The legendary comedian Freddie 'Parrot Face' Davies is my guest for this special Christmas episode.
We chat at length about his career and he tells lots of lovely stories with many names that you'll might wish to google. I would also like to personally thank Freddie for his time, generosity and his enthusiasm for The Panto Podcast.
Freddie is a true master of his craft and you can find more about him at his website http://freddiedavies.com
And you can buy his book, CD's and the DVD of Funny Bones at http://www.stageoneproductions.co.uk/index.htm
Singer, actress and presenter Charlie Raine is my guest this week. She tells me how she's battled against hearing loss since a child and how she prepares for pantomime by learning the entire script so she can lip read the other actors on stage. This is a truly inspirational story that I'm very proud to share.
Charlie is performing at The Customs House South Shields as Sniffy The Skunk, click here to book tickets https://www.customshouse.co.uk/theatre/snow-white/
You can follow Charlie on Twitter https://twitter.com/charlieraine6
And here's a link to her YouTube page which teaches sign language for all ages https://www.youtube.com/BSLcharlie
Pianist, composer and actor Bobby Crush is this weeks guest. In this episode he tells me about his meteoric rise to the stage of the London Palladium, his most famous composition and the benefits of having large hands!
You can see Bobby playing Dame Dolly at the Kenneth More Theatre Ilford this season (19/20) Book tickets using this link https://redbridgedramacentre.co.uk/RedbridgeDramaCentre.dll/WhatsOn?Programme=825998
You can follow Bobby on Twitter https://twitter.com/thebobbycrush
And you can visit his website at http://www.bobbycrush.com
Singer and songwriter Joe McElderry is this weeks guest. We chat about his love of panto, his rapid rise to fame and how he looks after his famous voice.
You can see where Joe is performing and more about him on his website
https://www.joemcelderryofficial.com
You can follow Joe on Twitter https://twitter.com/joemcelderry91
and you can see him in pantomime at the Birmingham Hippodrome (19/20) Book tickets here https://www.birminghamhippodrome.com/calendar/snow-white-the-seven-dwarfs/
The ever so naughty David Dale is my guest for this weeks episode. He tells me what life was like in the drag scene of the 80's, his breakthrough role in one the biggest television shows and his famous doll creations.
There are a couple of naughty words in this episode, so you have been warned.
You can order your very own Diva Dolly by contacting David direct on Facebook.
You can see David performing in Northampton in Cinderella this year (19/20). Click here to book tickets https://www.royalandderngate.co.uk/whats-on/cinderella/
Ventriloquist Steve Hewlett is this weeks guest. He tells me about how a certain television show propelled him to national fame, his love of pantomime and he tells me what life was really like on The Osmonds tour bus.
You can find more about Steve, where he's performing and his personalised puppets on his website http://thestevehewlettshow.com
Children's television and pantomime star Chris Jarvis is my guest in this episode. Chris speaks about his love of pantomime, his incredible career entertaining youngsters and his new venture, a radio station for preschool children and families.
You can see Chris in pantomime this year (19/20) in Sleeping Beauty at the Wyvern Theatre Swindon. Here's a link for tickets https://swindontheatres.co.uk/Online/panto-swindon-pantomime
You can follow Chris on Twitter https://twitter.com/realchrisjarvis
And here's the website for Little Radio https://www.littleradio.co.uk
and you can download the app to your iPhone or iPad https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/little-radio/id1480723769
From Hollywood to the boards of the Hackney Empire, legendary Dame Clive Rowe MBE is my guest for this weeks episode.
Clive tells me all about his time growing up, being thrown out of lessons, his incredible varied career and how he plays Dame.
You can see Clive in Dick Whittington at the Hackney Empire this season (19/20) Click here for tickets https://hackneyempire.co.uk/whats-on/dick-whittington/
Magician, entertainer and pantomime star Mark James is my guest for this weeks episode. He tells me how much he loves performing for families, his famous BGT act and how he's never missed a single performance.
You can see Mark performing in Aladdin at the Malvern Theatre (19/20). Click here for tickets https://www.malvern-theatres.co.uk/whats-on/aladdin/
You can find out more about Mark and where he's performing by going to his website https://www.mark-james.org.uk/home.html
and Twitter https://twitter.com/markjamesmagic
Writer, Actor, Director and Dame Eric Potts is my guest in this weeks episode. We chat about timing, who helped during his career and how he keeps appearing on our TV sets in different guises.
You can follow Eric on Twitter https://twitter.com/comedypotts
You can see Eric performing three different plays (The Ladykillers, Dear Uncle and The Rise and Fall of Little Voice) at The Theatre By The Lake in Keswick. Click here for tickets https://www.theatrebythelake.com/whats-on
And Eric will be staring in the Pantomime Snow White for the 2019-20 season at Manchester Opera House. Click here for tickets https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/snow-white/opera-house-manchester/
Film, TV and theatre actor Martin Barrass is my guest this week. He tells me how he first became involved with the York Theatre Royal pantomime, his love of physical comedy and how a horrendous accident almost killed him. And we’re so glad he's here to tell the tale.
You can see Martin playing the role of Queen in this years pantomime Sleeping Beauty at the York Theatre Royal, click below for tickets
https://www.yorktheatreroyal.co.uk/show/sleeping-beauty/
Singer and actor Asa Elliott is my guest this week. He tells me how his love of singing catapulted him to fame on one of ITV's biggest shows Benidorm (and its sell out tour Benidorm Live), his late start in pantomime and his relationship with the public.
You can find out more about Asa on Facebook, Twitter and his website
https://www.facebook.com/MrAsaElliott/
https://twitter.com/asaelliott
https://www.asaelliott.com
And you can see Asa in panto this year (19/20) at the Liverpool Empire. Click here to book tickets
https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/peter-pan/liverpool-empire/
Today Molly Limpet’s celebrate their 19th birthday. In this episode I chat with Scott McKenzie who talks about what life is like in one of the largest costume houses in Europe.
You can find more details out about everything Scott and his hard working team on their website
https://www.mollylimpets.com
Twitter https://twitter.com/mollylimpets
Movie and stage star Craig Garner is my guest for this episode. He tells me all about how he got started in the business, the difficulties that being a little person in a large theatre can bring and his emotional performance at the London Palladium last year.
You can see Craig this year (19/20) at the Birmingham Hippodrome in Snow White and the Seven Dwarves. Click here to book tickets https://www.birminghamhippodrome.com/calendar/snow-white-the-seven-dwarfs/
And you can follow Craig on Twitter https://twitter.com/craiggarner85
Swansea born Nigel Ellacott has become part of pantomime royalty. We chat about his rise to fame, how he lost his welsh accent and the wonderful website he created that we all use.
He's performing this year (19/20) in Sleeping Beauty at Venue Cymru, Llandudno. Here's a link for tickets https://venuecymru.co.uk/sleeping-beauty-0
Here's a link to Nigel's Twitter http://twitter.com/IBYNigel
And of course the extensively researched and updated It's Behind You http://www.its-behind-you.com
The first ever three part Panto Podcast.
Part One - I meet the indolent Doreen Tipton. After waiting almost 4 hours for her to get out of bed, she finally answered the front door and reluctantly agreed to be interviewed.
Part Two - Comedy playwright David Tristram is my guest for the second part. We talk about his creation of Doreen and how the process of writing takes place.
Part Three - Gill Jordan, the talented actor tells me her full story and what she loves about pantomime.
I would like to thank David for his wonderful writing especially for this podcast and to Gill for allowing me to share her story.
You can follow Doreen on Twitter www.twitter.com/doreentipton
And for all things Doreen (and Gill) take a look at the hilarious YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/user/inspectordrake
You can also order the book 'The Giant Panteater, and other curious animals' by clicking here https://doreenforkids.com
And you can see Doreen giving the performance of her life in Snow White & the Seven Dwarves at Birmingham Hippodrome this year (19/20). Here's a link for tickets https://www.birminghamhippodrome.com/calendar/snow-white-the-seven-dwarfs/#performances
Shakespearean actor, writer, producer and pantomime Dame Paul Dunn is my guest this week.
You can follow Paul on Twitter
http://twitter.com/ThePaulDunn
You can find out more about him and his writing at his website
http://thepauldunn.co.uk
And tickets for Aladdin at The Gala Theatre in Durham (19/20) are available at this link
https://www.galadurham.co.uk/galapost/aladdin/
Singer, impressionist and seasoned pantomime performer Andrew Fleming is my guest this week. We chat backstage between performances of Peter Pan, where he tells me about his career, does a fair few impressions and silly voices and some great advice for actors before they tread the boards.
Here's a link to Andrew's website www.andrew-fleming.co.uk
One of the worlds leading experts on Pantomime, Simon Sladen is this weeks guest.
He's the Senior Curator of Modern and Contemporary Performance at London's Victoria and Albert Museum. We talk about what makes a good pantomime, his own writing and performance and the future of this art form.
Here's a link to Simon's Twitter accounts http://twitter.com/simonsladen https://twitter.com/theatrecurator
You can find more about the V&A and how to visit at the website https://www.vam.ac.uk
With 50 years in the business, John tells his story of how he started off in weekly rep, how circumstances meant he was cast in Only Fools and Horses and the story behind that laugh.
John has two volumes of his autobiography available from the website Wigmore Books, click the link to order your signed copy http://www.wigmorebooks.com/being-boycie.php
And you can see John getting the boos in Aladdin at Malvern this year (19/20), click the link to book tickets https://www.malvern-theatres.co.uk/whats-on/aladdin/
Dame Simon Bashford is my guest this week. We chat about his great friendship with Danny La Rue, his passion for singing and how he keeps himself young.
You can find all about Simon, where he's performing and buy his albums from his website http://www.simonbashford.com
This Christmas (19/20), Simon is appearing as Dame in Jack and the Beanstalk at the Harlequin Theatre Redhill, click here for tickets http://www.harlequintheatre.co.uk/whats-on/pantomime/
And to see Simon perform his one man show 'One For My Baby' on the 19th October 2019, please click here for tickets http://www.harlequintheatre.co.uk/whats-on/on-stage/up-close-and-on-stage-simon-bashford-one-for-my-baby/
Zany comedian and entertainer Bernie Clifton is my guest in this episode.
We chat about a talking donkey, how he played Buttons, his love of singing and his energetic ostrich. SPOILER ALERT - Bernie gives away one of the biggest secrets of his career!
Bernie is appearing in Cinderella in Northampton this year 19/20. To book tickets please click here https://www.royalandderngate.co.uk/whats-on/cinderella/
And you can find out where he’s performing and buy his latest album on his website
http://www.bernieclifton.co.uk
The Glamorous Dame Rita, Chris Hayward is my guest this week. We chat about working with some of the greatest names in the business, costume making and how he adores working in the North East.
Here's a link for this years Beauty and the Beast at Newcastle Theatre Royal if you would like to see Chris in action https://www.theatreroyal.co.uk/whats-on/panto-beauty-and-the-beast
Musical virtuoso James Harrison is my guest this week. He talks about how the most strict of piano teacher made him defiant, working with a certain silver fox and how he hopes to create a new vital addition to pantomimes.
You can find all about James on his website
https://www.jamesharrisonmusician.com
His backing tracks
https://www.jhbackingtracks.com
And his band sourcing website
https://www.cuemusicuk.com
You can also see James performing at the Lyceum Theatre in Sheffield this Christmas (19/20) in Cinderella. Here’s a link for tickets https://www.sheffieldtheatres.co.uk/events/cinderella
Hailing from South Shields, Ray Spencer is the Director and resident Dame of The Customs House. In 2010 Ray was awarded the MBE for services to the arts. We chat about his comical creation Tommy The Trumpeter, when he left his beloved North East and what he thinks about the industry and the Pantomime Awards. (This episode was recorded before Charlie Raine won the award for Best Animal at the 2019 awards).
Here's a link for the pantomime Snow White at The Customs House in South Shields https://www.customshouse.co.uk/theatre/snow-white/
And here's the link to Ray's Twitter https://twitter.com/rayspencermbe
International TV presenter, artist, actor and singer Lloyd Warbey is my guest this week. We chat about his life in pantomime, becoming a musical performer and how he become the host of one of the biggest children's television shows in the world, Art Attack.
I would like to thank Lloyd for taking the time between very energetic shows to chat for the podcast.
You can follow Lloyd on his Twitter account
https://twitter.com/lloydwarbey
And you can book tickets to see Lloyd this Christmas in Pantomime at Royal Tunbridge Wells https://www.assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk/whats-on/peter-pan
Speaking backstage in between performances of Disney's Aladdin, Leon Craig tells me all about his career, influences, his Dame costumes and the audition process to be in one of the biggest and most spectacular shows in London’s West End.
You can see Leon's very insightful Instagram https://www.instagram.com/leoncraigofficial
Details of his latest pantomime appearance will be updated here soon!
Finalist of Britain's Got Talent, impersonator and comedian Danny Posthill is this weeks guest. We chat about his time on the show, his transfer from comic to Dame and what Diane Abbott did to him.
You can follow and see lots of hilarious videos on Twitter
https://twitter.com/posthilldanny
and here's the link to his 2019 Edinburgh Fringe show at Frankenstein's Bier Keller https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/danny-posthill-is-that-bloke-who-does-voices
Showman, Story Teller and Pantomime performer Gary Bridgens shares his story in this episode.
Here's a link to Gary's website and his diary where you can find out where he's performing
https://garybridgens.com
Here's his Twitter link
https://twitter.com/gacko666
And here's the link for tickets to Aladdin at The Georgian Theatre Royal (they also have the most amazing tours too) http://www.georgiantheatreroyal.co.uk/Shows/Aladdin.aspx
Comedy giants The Grumbleweeds have been a household name since the 1960's. In 2014 James Brandon joined Robin Colvill to reinvent the act which is filling theatres and delighting pantomime audiences throughout the year.
I would like to thank the 'boys' for taking time out of their busy schedule to record this podcast.
Find more about where they are performing next on their website https://www.grumbleweedsofficial.com
You can also find them on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/TheGrumbleweeds/
and Twitter https://twitter.com/grumbleweedsuk
National Treasure and comedy legend Paul Chuckle is my guest this week on The Panto Podcast. In this episode Paul tells of how a football injury changed his career path, the sad loss of Barry and how Chucklevision saved a girls life.
Paul would also love for all the overseas listeners to look up Chucklevision on YouTube to see his and Barry's work.
You can also follow Paul on his Twitter page https://twitter.com/PaulChuckle2
I would also like to personally thank Paul for being so open and honest in his podcast.
Celebrating his 30th year at the Grand Opera House in Belfast in 2019/20, my guest this week is best known in Northern Ireland as May McFetteridge. John tells me how he stumbled his way to become the larger than life character. We talk about how he came up with the characters name and about what it was like performing shows during the troubles.
And also try and spot which key character from pantomime we both forgot about when we were against the clock choosing his Dream Panto (whoops).
Here's a link for tickets for the 2019/20 Beauty and the Beast https://www.goh.co.uk/whats-on/beauty-and-the-beast/
Following on from last weeks episode, I meet Brian Patton. We chat about his long lasting career, all the great people he's worked with, pantomime and the location of his fathers ashes.
Some of the stories are a little bit on the naughty side, but nothing too rude so you should be alright. Brian would also like to thank everyone for listening, and like Jimmy, would love you to view all their videos on YouTube. Also stay listening at the end for a little bit of a bonus.
Their book 'Laughing All Our Lives' is now available to buy on Amazon https://www.amazon.co.uk/PATTON-BROTHERS-Laughing-All-Lives/dp/0244401667/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1549902968&sr=8-1&keywords=patton+brothers
With a career spanning seven decades, Jimmy is one of half of the legendary Patton Brother. He talks about what life was like growing up with a father who was a successful comedian, forming a double act with his brother, then what is was like to have two more brothers watching you and how that influences them.
There are plenty of routines of The Patton Brothers on YouTube, something that Jimmy loves and would very much like you to watch his videos.
Brian Patton's episode will be next week.
The all round entertainer Leah Bell has been treading the boards in pantomime for many years. On top of writing and directing, she still take part in comedy plays which tour around the UK. We chat about her lucky break, working with a famous household name and how she likes to keep pantomime for families.
You can catch Leah on tour at the moment in Dirty Dusting https://www.ents24.com/uk/tour-dates/dirty-dusting-touring
And her pantomime tickets for 2019/20 are now on sale https://www.empireconsett.co.uk/galapost/snow-white-the-pantomime/
With almost 40 years in the fashion design business, Paul was awarded Costume Designer of the Year at the 2018 Great British Pantomime Awards.
In this episode we talk about his love of all things theatrical, colour, growing up in a large coal mining town and of course pantomime.
You can see his designs at The Customs House South Shields in their next pantomime https://www.customshouse.co.uk/theatre/snow-white/
and find out more about Paul and the work he does at http://www.foxandshriek.com/index.html
Pantomime and West End star David Leonard is my guest in this weeks episode. We talk about what it's like being a baddie, how he got the role of Agatha Trunchbull in Matilda and going into rehearsals without a complete script.
This is David's 29th year performing in pantomime at York Theatre Royal. The Grand Old Dame of York is running until 2nd Feb, grab a ticket (if you can) at https://www.yorktheatreroyal.co.uk/event/grand_old_dame_of_york.php
Award winning Scottish comedian and actor Johnny Mac is my guest this week. We chat about how he got his break, performing his show in Great Yarmouth and nerves.
You can find out more about Johnny at his website https://johnnymac.co.uk
his Twitter https://twitter.com/meetthemacs
and here's a link for tickets for his Great Yarmouth show https://www.hippodromecircus.co.uk/pirates/
Jack and The Beanstalk 2019-20 https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/jack-and-the-beanstalk/kings-theatre/
Scottish baddie Grant Stott has been treading the boards for 25 years in pantoland this season. We talk about his influences, his love of the Kings Theatre, how he plays a baddie and the reason why he quit his long running radio show. We also have a little interruption by Allan Stewart, who has agreed to be a guest at some point in the future.
Here's a link to his website and Twitter
http://www.pantovillain.co.uk
https://twitter.com/GrantStottOnAir
And this is where you can catch Grant performing
https://www.capitaltheatres.com/whats-on/beautyandbeast
https://www.capitaltheatres.com/whats-on/allanstewart
And here's the link to the next pantomime
https://www.capitaltheatres.com/whats-on/goldilocks
Actor, singer, comedian, presenter, awards host and pantomime star Steve Walls has been all over the UK starring in some of the biggest productions. In this episode we talk about his love for Panto, hoarding and not forgetting a lovely story about a pesky pyro.
You can find more about Steve at his website http://www.stevewalls.co.uk
And here's the link for tickets to the 2019/20 pantomime https://www.playhousewhitleybay.co.uk/events/blue-genie-entertainment-presents-jack-the-beanstalk/
After winning Britain's Got Talent, Ashleigh was given top star billing alongside her trusted dog Pudsey, but having never really appeared on a stage before she tells her story of what it was like. We also talk a lot about dogs of course.
To follow Ashleigh, please go to her Twitter https://twitter.com/ashleighnsully
Legend of TV and stage, Matthew Kelly is my special guest for the christmas episode of The Panto Podcast. We chat about his life as a child and the dressing up box, phones in the theatre and the shocking reason why he's not doing pantomime at the moment.
I would like to thank him for his valuable time in between performances of the play The Habit of Art.
©Hayden Parker - The Panto Podcast 2018
Any quotes of the podcast must be given prior approval before publication
Gary and Paul Hardy-Brown have been life long fans of special effects and in this podcast they tell how their passion has turned into an award winning career. Their unique special effects, illusions and animatronics are seen in theatres, TV and film all over the world. You'll also be able to see their work in real life at many pantomimes up and down the country.
You can find all about their work and wonderful photos and videos on their website https://www.thetwinsfx.com/index.asp
And you can follow them on
Twitter https://twitter.com/theillusionists
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/thetwinsfx/
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/thetwinsfx/
YouTube https://www.youtube.com/user/thetwinsfx/featured
Stand-up comedy star, impressionist and singer Duncan talks about his career, his life changing stroke in 2012 and how he's fighting back and hoping one day to return to pantomime at some point.
You can find more about Duncan at his website http://www.duncannorvelle.co.uk
You can also donate to the Stroke Association and read about their fantastic work here https://www.stroke.org.uk