Imagine stepping into a theater, surrounded by laughter, glittering costumes, and the unmistakable energy of a pantomime. Now, picture yourself in the shoes—or rather, the frilly dress—of a dame, a character so larger-than-life it’s impossible to forget. But here’s where it gets emotional: the legacy of one of the most iconic dames in British entertainment history, John Inman, lives on in the most unexpected way—through his costumes, now cherished and worn by a new generation of performers. And this is the part most people miss: it’s not just about the outfits; it’s about preserving a piece of theatrical magic that continues to captivate audiences decades later.
John Inman, best known for his role as Mr. Humphries in the beloved BBC sitcom Are You Being Served?, was a master of the pantomime dame. His over-the-top wigs, extravagant makeup, and flamboyant dresses defined the character, blending humor with a touch of whimsy. After his passing in 2007 at the age of 71, his costumes found a new home with Jamie Riding, the resident pantomime dame at Weymouth Pavilion in Dorset. Riding, who now stewards Inman’s legacy, describes it as a privilege: ‘There are about 20 costumes in total, complete with wigs and accessories, and I’m incredibly lucky to be preserving John’s history and heritage.’
But here’s where it gets controversial: While some of Inman’s costumes are carefully stored away for preservation, others still grace the stage, sparking debates among fans and historians. Should these pieces of history be locked away for posterity, or should they continue to bring joy to live audiences? Riding, for his part, believes Inman would want them to live on in the spirit of pantomime. ‘The most important thing is what John wanted,’ he explains, ‘and that was to carry on the panto magic. That’s what he was all about.’
What’s even more fascinating is that Inman wasn’t just an actor—he was a creator. Many of his costumes were designed, and even handmade, by him. ‘He was very, very creative,’ Riding notes. ‘There’s a story I’ve heard from several people about John sewing something onto a costume in his dressing room or making a pair of trousers because he was a skilled seamstress.’ This level of dedication adds a layer of depth to his legacy, showcasing his talent beyond the stage.
This year, Riding steps into the role of Dame Daisy Trott in Jack and the Beanstalk, a production that runs until January 3rd at Weymouth Pavilion. For him, pantomime is more than just a show—it’s a gateway to a lifelong love of theater. ‘A pantomime is often a child’s first experience in a theater,’ he reflects. ‘If you catch them young, you’ve got them for life. That’s the magic of it.’ Riding’s own journey began at 14, when he volunteered to play a dame in a school gala. By 16, he was determined to make it his career, boldly telling a producer, ‘Next Christmas, you’re going to have me in your show.’ And he did.
As we celebrate Inman’s enduring influence, it’s worth asking: What does it mean to preserve an artist’s legacy? Should it be frozen in time, or should it evolve with new interpretations? And how do we ensure that the magic of pantomime continues to enchant future generations? Let’s keep the conversation going—share your thoughts in the comments below!
