Blackpool choreographer's pantomime magic at The Grand Theatre sees her flying high at British Pantomime Awards

Shortlisted against some of the finest choreographers in the theatre industry, including one of her former tutors Stillie Dee, Katie said she was overwhelmed and delighted with the prestigious recognition.

Sadly celebrations for the distinguished prize took place at the dining table at home in Thornton Cleveleys rather than the glitzy London awards do that had been set to take place but Katie said it was a proud moment for the whole theatre family.

Katie, the third daughter of Lorraine Hill, director for Barbara Jackson's Theatre Art School said: "It was amazing to find out I'd been nominated, to win was something else.

"With Steve Royle, there has always a bit of a joke in all the years we've being doing pantomime I've never had my picture on the poster - now I've got this.

"But honestly we're such a massive family at the theatre and with Martin Dodd and UK productions. It has been exciting for us all and all the dancers involved. This last year we welcomed back professionals who had come through Barbara Jackson's so to see them come through and do so well, it's special.

It's a wonderful team, we have this panto bubble every year for six whole weeks and every one that passes I feel so lucky to be involved with such a great production and team."

Katie, who started dancing at two, has her own dance classes and team year round, with sessions currently taking place over Zoom. She has worked with the Grand Theatre on the pantomime for many years.

First as a dancer in the show, before taking on a role as a assistant choreographer and then being asked to lead the routines in Cinderella 2008.

The mum-of-two added: "It's just such a wonderful experience and a pleasure to be a part of. We have such a good connection with dance schools across the whole resort The talent is fantastic.

"It was nice to receive some great news with all going on, so many of our shows for the little ones have been cancelled, all our team competitions the dancers had been working hard for.

"The online sessions have been nice for us all to keep in touch. Dance is my life and work, I'm so used to being here, there and everywhere, it's such strange times.

"I have such a supportive family and my husband Paul who is so great with it all."

Katie's mum Lorraine added: "To say I am so proud of my daughter Katie is an understatement. I am absolutely thrilled that we have this talented lady as a teacher at BJTAC and can’t wait till we can do Twinkletoes 2020 at the Opera House."

The Grand Theatre pantomime Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs from Friday December 4, featuring Steve Royle for his 18th year. For tickets visit https://www.blackpoolgrand.co.uk/