IF you happen to see local impressionist Debra Stephenson walking along the beach talking to herself, she’s probably just rehearsing for her next show.

For the 46-year-old star of Dead Ringers, The Impressions Show and new ITV1 panel show The Imitation Game, is bringing her live music and comedy show, Night of 100 Voices to Poole.

Debra who lives in the area, promises to take her audience on a nostalgic journey through six decades of popular music as well as paying tribute to many of the world’s favourite singers from Billy Holliday to Paloma Faith, Barbara Streisand to Adele.

Debra moved to Poole some eight years ago for health reasons as both her children suffered from bronchiolitis as babies.

“While it might seem an odd location for an actress, and I’ve been gutted to have to turn down a couple of things because of the travelling involved, it’s so wonderful here,” she says.

“I feel the air’s cleaner and fresher here and it’s better for the kids and also, I’ve got such a good work-life balance now. I can run along the beach to keep fit which doesn’t feel like a chore!”

The beach is also her favoured rehearsal venue and she often practices her impressions while walking the dog.

Debra first appeared on Opportunity Knocks aged 14 and did voices for Spitting Image at 16. It was following advice from Bob Monkhouse that she began acting - he suggested she diversify her talents - but impressions will always hold a special place in her heart.

“When I was little I used to listen to my nan’s old fashioned radiogram,” she recalls. “I used to play the records when my parents were talking to her, because I was an only child.

“She had a great collection of the greats – Judy Garland, Shirley Bassey, Marilyn Monroe. I copied the voices. I think with impressions it is just about listening and listening and absorbing. Especially as a child you do absorb those voices. I began to do impressions.”

Debra’s father was also a talented impressionist but, rather than trying to pursue a professional career, he devoted his time to his young family. However the pair did perform a double act for local radio, and he would often help her with new voices and scripts.

Debra’s new ITV1 show The Imitation Game starts on September 2. Her Night of 100 Voices is at Lighthouse on October 12 at 7.30pm. Tickets £20/£23. To book, visit lighthousepoole.co.uk