TO MANY she is the pinnacle of Irish pantomime - to others, the ‘First Lady’ of musical comedy. She boasts an array of talents that could make even the most sombre individuals in society laugh. So take note, because this month the beloved June Rodgers makes a welcome return with her acclaimed Christmas Show.

This year she returns to the Red Cow, Moran’s Hotel after 6 years and for the first time is producing and starring in her own show. Fresh out of rehearsals, The Ballyfermot Press caught up with the queen of panto to talk about her return to the stage and how busy producing and directing the whole show has kept her.

Her stories about jetting to London to shop for wigs, and dashing down to Cork to purchase make-up supplies would have some readers assuming June lives the ’showbiz lifestyle’. According to the pint-sized performer however, rehearsing lines and routines everyday and ensuring the performers get every little detail just right can be a serious chore. “I don’t get to live the glamorous lifestyle at all! Sure look at me today. It is hard work to be behind the scenes and in front as well.”

She praises her team however, who are always on hand to help her. At least with Daryn Crosbie choreographing every move and Martin Higgins scripting parodies of famous songs including Amy Winehouse’s ‘Rehab’ and ‘Valerie’, her job is made slightly easier. (We can only imagine June dressed as Amy for that section of the show). Other characters in the show include the infamous ‘Swineair’, a character she invented based on the penny-pinching business practices of a well-known airline. Also featured in the show is former D-Side member, Shane Creevey. June’s most-loved character, Jacinta McNamara will also make a much-anticipated appearance.

Although she insists she simply “fell into comedy”, her audience whom she believes are “aged 9 to 90″ appear to believe she was born to do it. The fact her show is already booked for Christmas 2009 is a testament to that.

While explaining how truly grateful she is for her opportunities, she detailed how it all began. While working at Fujitsu Electronics in their early 20’s, June and some colleagues entered the John Player Tops contest, a sort of early on-stage X-Factor. It was here she really found her calling, and began to develop a variety of comedy acts. “I got nothing for free though, I earned my place. I did my fair share of work. I worked in laundrettes, factories and warehouses”, she adds.

June admits her parents were firm believers in hard labour, yet she believes she inherited their sense of humour. She spoke of her mother’s side of the family always gathering together, singing and cracking jokes. “Growing up, listening to my parents singing and joking inspired me. It was more interesting to listen to them sing rather than watch the buses go by in Tallaght Village”, she continued.

She has a new DVD coming out on November 21, which features the likes of Derek Mooney and Senator David Norris. The wild Senator’s role will certainly attract some attention. With bookings already confirmed for next Christmas before this year’s show has even begun, and plenty of support from the local talent, it seems June’s motto “Treat others as you would like to be treated” has come home to roost. Clearly still in demand, after more than 20 years in the business, the future is bright for June Rodgers and her incomparable style.