CBeebies presenter Andy Day was moved to tears after a fan told him his programme inspired him to study palaeontology at university. The 45-year-old, who has worked for CBeebies for nearly two decades, shared the emotional moment in an exclusive interview with the ECHO.
Day, known for shows like Andy's Dinosaur Adventures and his work with the Odd Socks band, is preparing for the CBeebies pantomime, which will be filmed at the Liverpool Empire theatre this year. He described the city's audiences as 'some of the best' he has ever experienced.
Emotional Fan Encounter
Recalling a recent park encounter, Day said: 'I was in a park walking past a young lad who is 22 now. He walked past and he said, "Your programme is the reason why I'm at university to study palaeontology" and it brought a little tear to my eye. It was such a special moment. That's what you do it for.'
Liverpool Audiences Bring Energy
This year's pantomime is a reimagining of Robert Louis Stevenson's Treasure Island, recorded on October 3 and 4. Day anticipates lively crowds, adding: '[Liverpool crowds] bring the energy and the love. I do think it's going to be a riot.' He previously performed with the Odd Socks band in the Eurovision fan zone, calling it 'a very special show'.
Day will spend two weeks in Liverpool for rehearsals and enjoys the city's vibrant atmosphere. He said: 'I really like Bold Street. The people, the vibe, the theatres. Everything just feels really buzzy.'
Pantomime's Role in Family Bonding
Day emphasised the importance of pantomime as a first theatre experience for children. He said: 'It's my most favourite thing about the job. You do have a sense of responsibility to make sure the kids have the best programmes they can watch. That can change the direction of their life.'
He highlighted how CBeebies pantos bring families together: 'The memories of seeing kids and with their families really enjoying themselves. That's what it's about. When I grew up, that's what I used to do with my family. CBeebies pantos are a great way to get families to sit down together and get into the Christmas spirit.'
The CBeebies pantomime will be recorded at the Empire theatre in October and broadcast on BBC during the festive season. More information is available on the BBC website.
