19/08/2026
🎭 NEW EPISODE | Reimagining Pantomime for a New Generation
In Episode 137 of the Just Imagine Podcast, Martin Ballard is joined by acclaimed writer, director and actor Susie McKenna, whose groundbreaking work at Hackney Empire helped redefine what modern pantomime could be.
From her early days performing with her parents, to becoming a Principal Boy under the mentorship of Kenneth Alan Taylor, Susie takes us through an incredible career spanning performance, writing, directing and pantomime.
🎭 Discover how she transformed traditional fairy tales to reflect the communities they were created for
✍️ Hear why writing for the actors in your company can make all the difference
🌍 Explore her acclaimed reimagining of Dick Whittington through the story of the Windrush generation
✨ And find out why Susie believes pantomime should never be afraid to tackle contemporary themes
It's a fascinating conversation about creativity, collaboration, representation and the enduring power of pantomime to bring people together.
🎧 Listen to Episode 137 now wherever you get your podcasts.
