For some performers, there’s a clear divide between persona and personality. But for Bournemouth Pavilion’s favourite pantomime comic Noel Brodie, the line between the two feels joyfully blurred.

Standing beneath the glittering art deco trimmings of Bournemouth Pavilion Theatre, Brodie is every inch the classic panto star in his vibrant costume, fresh from a promotional shoot for this year’s festive production, Aladdin, where he’s set to star as Wishee Washee.

Yet today, he’s reflecting on something new: his standalone comedy show, It’s About Time, which comes to the venue on Saturday 23 May 2026. After three decades in show business, and 12 years as a Bournemouth Pavilion fixture, Brodie is stepping into the spotlight as himself.

Brodie’s journey into performance began unexpectedly.

“I always thought I was going to be a sportsman,” he recalls. “But in year nine, just for a laugh, I auditioned for the role of Danny Zuko in the school production of Grease, and somehow got it.”

That moment proved transformational. “I realised two things at once: I loved performing… and I didn’t have the talent for football, rugby or boxing,” he jokes. “So show business was what I wanted to do.”

Despite decades of experience, Brodie remains modest about his craft.

“I still don’t think I’ve honed my skills,” he laughs. “But looking back, my influences were people like Billy Connolly and Eddie Murphy. My style has always been a bit more free-flowing, I never wanted to be ‘joke, punchline, joke.’ My style is more of a whimsical train of thought.”

That improvisational style has found a natural home in pantomime, where audience interaction is key.

“The beauty of playing a panto comic is that I can break the fourth wall whenever I want. It’s fun, and my stand-up experience has really helped me with that.”

While Brodie is a seasoned performer, stepping out as himself in his stand-up show at the venue brings a fresh set of challenges.

“It’s really nerve-wracking,” he admits. “When people come to panto, you’re part of a big show. But this time, they’ve bought tickets to see me. It’s just me; no cast, no set, no ensemble. Just me and a microphone on a big stage.”

That contrast is particularly striking given how at home he feels at Bournemouth Pavilion.

“When I come here for panto, I feel completely relaxed. It’s like coming home,” he says. “But with this, I’ll be walking on stage as myself; no Wishee Washee to hide behind.”

Brodie’s connection to the venue runs deep, both professionally and personally.

“It means everything to me,” he says. “So many of my best memories are here. My kids have grown up during my time at the theatre, from joining in the songs as little ones to now being too old for it. It’s been a huge part of their lives as much as mine.”

He’s also witnessed first-hand how the theatre shapes audiences across generations. “You meet families who’ve been coming for years,” he says. “I spoke to one who started coming when their daughter was 11. She’s 21 now!”

Like many comedians, Brodie’s early career wasn’t without its challenges.

“I started as a holiday rep abroad,” he explains. “Working with tired passengers on 1am flights from Gatwick, running excursions, performing shows; you learn very quickly how to handle an audience.

“I’ve performed in pubs to two people, underneath a dartboard, and once in a boxing ring between fights. That was horrendous,” he laughs. “There was no backstage, so I had to walk back through the heckling crowd to get off.”

For his upcoming show, Brodie promises an evening that blends storytelling, spontaneity, and audience interaction.

“Every show I do is a one-off,” he says. “There will be some material and stories, but I’ll never pass up the chance to chat with the audience. That’s what makes it special.”

Above all, he’s grateful for the opportunity.

“I’m just so humbled,” he says. “It’s going to be a good night.”

Bournemouth Pavilion operated by BH Live, a registered charity and social enterprise, in partnership with BCP Council.

On behalf of BH Live, Steve Turner, Director of Venues, shared;

“Noel has been a huge part of Bournemouth Pavilion’s pantomime success for over a decade, and audiences return year after year because of his infectious energy, quick wit, and genuine connection with people. It’s incredibly exciting to see him step into the spotlight with his own stand-up show.

“It’s About Time is a real celebration of Noel’s journey in entertainment, and we’re proud to support him as he brings his unique style of storytelling and audience interaction to Bournemouth Pavilion’s theatre.”

Tickets for It’s About Time are available online at bournemouthpavilion.co.uk.

From curtain-up to the final bow, UK Production’s mesmerising production of Aladdin* at Bournemouth Pavilion promises an exciting panto adventure, perfect for families, friends, and panto fans of all ages.

Starring Coronation Street star, James Cartwright, as the wicked Abanazar; Jamie Steen as the gloriously outrageous Widow Twankey, and panto favourite Noel Brodie as Wishee Washee, this is an adventure you don’t want to miss.

Performances are available from Saturday 5 December 2026 – Sunday 3 January 2027 with group rates, school and young people’s concessions, and relaxed and captioned performances available. For group bookings or school visits (including subsidised tickets for eligible pupils) contact: groupsales@bhlive.org.uk

More information about UK Productions Ltd can be found online at ukproductions.co.uk.

More information about Bournemouth Pavilion, including tickets and What’s On, is online at bournemouthpavilion.co.uk.