Su Pollard: 50 Years of Showbusiness, 40 Pantomimes and a Lifetime of Laughter

Few entertainers have brought as much joy, laughter and personality to British audiences as Su Pollard. With a career spanning more than five decades, countless television appearances and more than 40 pantomimes to her name, Su has become one of Britain's most recognisable and much-loved performers.

In the latest episode of the Just Imagine Podcast, host Martin Ballard sits down with the legendary actress, singer and comedian for a wonderfully entertaining conversation about her extraordinary journey through showbusiness, her love of pantomime and the experiences that have shaped her remarkable career.

And, as you might expect from Su, there are plenty of stories along the way!

From Nottingham to national television fame

Su's journey into entertainment began in Nottingham, where she developed her love of performing through amateur theatre.

Her big break came through the television talent show Opportunity Knocks, setting her on a path that would eventually make her a household name.

Audiences will forever associate Su with some of Britain's best-loved television comedies, particularly her unforgettable performance as Peggy Ollerenshaw in Hi-de-Hi!. She also appeared in You Rang, M'Lord? and Oh, Doctor Beeching!, working alongside some of the most celebrated comedy writers and performers of the era.

During her conversation with Martin, Su reflects on her experiences working with legendary writers David Croft and Jimmy Perry, as well as the stories behind her career in television, musical theatre and music.

There's even a chance to revisit the story of her hit single, Starting Together!

A lifetime of pantomime magic

While television introduced Su to millions of viewers, pantomime has played an equally important role in her career.

With more than 40 pantomimes behind her, Su has experienced just about every corner of this wonderfully unique theatrical world.

From a fiery first appearance as the Blue Fairy to spending 25 years playing Principal Boy, and even terrifying young audiences as the Wicked Queen, her pantomime career has been as varied as it has been entertaining.

In the podcast, Su shares some brilliant behind-the-scenes memories and reflects on what makes pantomime so special.

It's a theatrical tradition that has entertained generations, bringing families together through laughter, music, storytelling and a little bit of Christmas magic.

For Su, that connection with audiences is something that never loses its appeal.

Why pantomime remains so special

Pantomime is unlike almost any other theatrical experience. It's a combination of comedy, music, spectacle, audience participation and storytelling, with traditions that audiences return to year after year.

Having spent so much of her career performing in pantomime, Su understands exactly what makes it work.

Her conversation with Martin explores the importance of maintaining those much-loved traditions, the relationship between performers and audiences, and why live family entertainment continues to hold such an important place in British theatre.

It's a lovely reminder that, while productions may change and new generations discover the magic of pantomime, the heart of the experience remains the same.

Su Pollard returns to pantomime this Christmas

And Su isn't slowing down!

This Christmas, Su will be taking to the stage in Imagine Theatre's production of Sleeping Beauty at Crewe Lyceum Theatre.

It's another opportunity for audiences to enjoy one of Britain's best-loved entertainers doing what she does best: bringing characters to life and making people smile.

With more than five decades in entertainment and an extraordinary collection of television, theatre and pantomime credits, Su's enthusiasm for performing remains as infectious as ever.

Listen to Su Pollard on the Just Imagine Podcast

From her early days in Nottingham and her breakthrough on Opportunity Knocks, to television fame, musical theatre and more than 40 pantomimes, this episode is packed with nostalgia, laughter and fascinating insights into a remarkable career.

Whether you're a lifelong Su Pollard fan, a lover of classic British television or someone who simply can't resist a good pantomime story, this is an episode you won't want to miss.

Visit the Just Imagine Podcast page on the Imagine Theatre website to listen to this episode and discover more conversations with the performers, creatives and personalities who make pantomime and family theatre so special.

And if you'd like to see Su in action this Christmas, don't miss her starring in Sleeping Beauty at Crewe Lyceum Theatre. Join Su and the rest of the cast for a magical festive treat packed with laughter, music and pantomime fun!