Dick Whittington

Hoylake and West Lirby Theatre Group. “Dick Whittington” January 2018 Gladstone Theatre.

Although a relatively small society, H A W K come up with some big productions and this year’s pantomine was no exception. Directors Jon Croft and Carl Howard headed the production team which included Musical Director Jeff Broadbere and Choreographer Megan Clarke and what a good job the team did.

Louis Founds came over strongly as the eponymous hero Dick and Charlotte Cummings as the other half of the love interest was the right match in all aspects of the role. Izzy Corr as the feline who is at the centre of the proceedings was charming and at 10 years old has many more principal parts ahead of her.

Paul Henderson gave us a splendidly traditional “Dolly Dumpling” and Ann Clewlow was a fine Idle Jack; both making good use of their involvement with the audience. Simon Brock (Captain Cuttlefish) and Jamie Brown as Scupper added to the comedy high jinks providing plenty of laughter.

Louise Gleave as Queen Rat was roundly booed and hissed always a sign of success and enjoyed the company of Hayden Gleave, Ellis Badley, Alex Kay and Ava Barker as her Ratlings.

Cathy Nickson aided by two very young helpers was the good fairy and Alan Earl played the Sultan of Morocco.

Add to these a goodly E nsemble and The Dancers who do so much to add to the overall scope of the production. Altogether another fine show from this very successful Theatre Group.

The back stage crew of stage hands wardrobe, props sound and lighting plus many others who the audience rarely if ever see are all key figures in providing the audience with a good night’s entertainment. Well done to all Budge

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