Dick Whittington

The PADOS pantomime brings a taste of Ye Olde London Town to their studio theatre in this take on the ever-traditional tale of Dick Whittington. This story, along with ‘Robin Hood & Babes In The Wood’, are the only pantomime stories that derive from true events. The story of Richard ‘Dick’ Whittington has managed to retain most of its truth as he was indeed the four times lord mayor of London in the late 1300’s/early 1400’s. The tale has developed slightly over the years with the inclusion of immortal characters such as a fairy and a talking sewer rat but the main structure of the narrative all rings true – he was employed as a tradesman in London before eventually becoming mayor, he embarked on a voyage to Morocco (which saw him return with exotic fabrics to trade), he was framed for theft, his wife was indeed Alice Fitzwarren (the daughter of a tradesman) and he was renowned for being regularly accompanied by his pet cat.

During his time as mayor, Richard Whittington campaigned for the paupers with much of his time and efforts being driven by supporting and aiding the deprived residents of London. He built a maternity hospital for unmarried mothers and to this day the Whittington Maternity Hospital still stands on London’s Highgate Hill, a significant location in the tale.

This production, as ever with a PADOS pantomime, was bursting at the seams!  The volume and strength from the ensemble and some of the principal vocals still prove to be an evident setback but the production team ensured that the overall presentation didn’t rest on such factors which is to be commended, tailoring the production to suit the strengths of the cast which, thankfully, pantomime offers such flexibility.

Timothy Platt directed the production which flowed with a good rhythm from the well drilled cast. It’s difficult with panto, more so than other genres, to know exactly how much the director has creatively contributed as no two panto scripts are the same, though the narrative was solidly executed, keeping the youngsters gripped. The humour was pitched at a safe level, it’s becoming more and more daring to push the boundaries in amateur pantos with how close to the knuckle the innuendos can go, don’t be afraid to experiment with them – looking around at the audience on the performance I attended - you can go further! But, of course, you know your audiences and how they react. …one or two cheeky puns won’t do any harm! ;-P  

Lisa Hartley gives a malicious villainous performance as the enraged King Rat, the perfect baddy who savoured each of her scenes to the audiences delight complete with her Lady Gaga rendition. Supporting Lisa with great results was Sara Brockway and Amanda Ernest who made a solid comedy double act as her evil, and hopeless sidekicks, Itchy and Scratchy.       

Idle Jack, the village idiot / comic role was furnished by the more than capable Jack Forrest, the energy levels he invested into the production are to be wholly commended, it’s evident that Jack adores this genre and he certainly gave his all into this performance. Just a caution with over excessive energy, one can give too much, the raise of an eyebrow or subtle glance to the audience can be equally as comical (if not more so) than the overly brisk, verging on stressful, energy. Jack absolutely excelled when calm and chatty with the audience – more of this please, it’s great and it’s when he built the rapport. Loads of energy for a part of this nature is correct, it is panto after all, the skill is channelling it.  

Simon Fletcher, regular Dame at PADOS, gave us what we wanted, what we expected and what we’ve come to love each year. He absorbs panto and is a master at it, a really enjoyable act throughout. Jon Walker was a charming Dick, he got away with his understated portrayal and gave a wholesome character which although was somewhat tentative at times it contributed to the charm and likability factor.

Emily Richardson proffered a sweet interpretation as Alice with a very soft voice (singing and speaking) which did often portray as a little too timid but the character was perfectly fluffy and twee as evidently intended.

PADOS always have a warm and welcoming feel with every visit but especially so with their pantomime. Whether ‘PADOS House’ is decked out with festive decorations or not it would still feel like Christmas has started when attending a PADOS Panto – seeing the familiar core cast is like receiving a friendly festive hug. It’s perfect and one I always look forward to!

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