What have we been up to?

It feels like no time at all since we wrapped up our pantomime Robin Hood earlier this year. What a show it was! We had full houses, plenty of boos and cheers, and a brilliant atmosphere throughout. A big thank you again to everyone who took part or supported us – it really was a special production.

The cast of 2025 with The Mayor of Gloucester, Lorraine Campbell

Since then, a lot has been going on behind the scenes...

One of the highlights of the year so far was being named a Highly Commended Finalist in the Fundraiser category at the BBC Radio Gloucestershire Make a Difference Awards 2025. This award recognises people who go the extra mile to raise money for good causes, and it felt amazing to see BADCo’s efforts recognised. To date, we have raised almost £50,000 for local charities through our pantos and fundraisers , so it was lovely to have that celebrated on such a big stage.

BADCo at the BBC Radio Gloucestershire Make A Difference Awards

In April we also held the ABBAs (Annual British BADCo Awards), our very own celebration night where we recognised the stars of the last panto season. It was a fun evening full of laughs, and a great way to look back at Robin Hood together before diving into the next show.

This summer was also extra special as it marks BADCo’s 30th anniversary. While we didn’t go ahead with a big celebration in the end, it’s still been on our minds and makes us reflect on just how many memories and friendships this group has created over the years.

Looking ahead, our charity for the 2025–26 season is Talkwell, a local organisation that provides mental health support to children and young people. It’s a cause very close to our hearts and we’re proud to be supporting them this year.

And of course, the really big news: our next panto will be Snow White! Written by our very own Tracy Keeble, the script has been years in the making and we’re so excited to finally bring it to the stage. Read-throughs and auditions took place earlier this month at St Barnabas Church Halls, and rehearsals are now well underway.

As always, we’ll be looking for fun ways to fundraise across the season, both for BADCo and for Talkwell. If you have an idea, big or small, please share it – every little bit helps and it’s always more fun when we do it together.

It’s been a busy few months since Robin Hood, but things are only just getting started. We can’t wait to see what the next season brings and we hope you’ll join us for the journey.

Here’s to Snow White!