Dick Whittington

Marsden Parish Church Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society celebrated their remarkable 100th year in theatre with a bright, cheerful and thoroughly enjoyable production of Dick Whittington, written by Alan P.Frayn it captured the true spirit of traditional pantomime. The whole show had a wonderfully simple charm, peppered with genuinely funny moments and the occasional cheeky wink to the audience, very much in the style of a classic Carry On film, but always kept on the right side of naughty, just as every good panto should be. 

The story was led with warmth and confidence by Alice, played beautifully by Sam Wood, whose scenes with Dick Whittington were performed with enthusiasm and assurance and gave the show a strong and likeable centre. Holly Comber‑Moccia as the afore mentioned Dick Whittington added the perfect principle boy dynamic supporting Alice and the rest principal cast with confidence. Richard Haigh, as Dolly Dumpling, delivered exactly the kind of vibrant, playful dame audiences look forward to, a delightful blend of exaggerated comedy and genuine charm. Idle Jack, also played by Sam Wood, brought plenty of silly humour that kept both adults and children laughing. 

In his first principal role, Ian Ball offered a steady performance as Alderman Fitzwarren, Alice’s father, settling comfortably into a character that carried both authority and warmth. Sarah Thompson, as Tom the Cat, was a real highlight, bringing fantastic physicality and a clear connection with the audience. Her movement and reactions often earned some of the evening’s biggest smiles. Colin Roberts brought good amusement as the Sultan, while Alison Gibson made an elegant and confident Fairy whose costume and presence added a touch of sparkle to the stage. 

For those who enjoy a good villain, Ian Taylor delivered a delightfully nasty and charismatic King Rat, clearly relishing every hiss and growl. His gang of young rats, Lexi Watts (Splat), Georgia Comber‑Moccia (Squeak), Ethan Comber‑Moccia (Sniff), Forest Taylor (Spit) and Evan Jackson (Scratch), supported him with lively energy and mischievous enthusiasm, helping to create some memorable group scenes. 

The comedy pairing of Chris Comber as Captain and Amy Blackburn as Scupper provided the panto’s traditional double‑act antics, with well‑timed jokes and physical comedy that kept audiences entertained throughout. The wider company, Pippa Bamford, Linzi Haigh, Phil Heywood, Shelley Jackson, Julie Mallinson, Malcolm Payne, Vivienne Payne, Emmie Pierce and Kirsty Taylor, worked together smoothly to bring the chorus scenes to life with colour and character. 

The production benefited from clear direction and choreography by Vivienne Payne, who also appeared on stage. She ensured the pacing stayed lively, the humour well‑judged, and the dance routines simple, tidy and genuinely enjoyable. The staging, managed by Al Muskett, was uncomplicated but effective, allowing the story to move seamlessly from scene to scene. With help from Guy Barrett Illusion Design, Katie Wade and Mark Jordan on props, the overall look and feel was polished yet refreshingly down‑to‑earth. 

Costume and makeup, provided by Vivienne Payne, Carolyn Taylor and Judith Morrison, were colourful, fitting perfectly within the panto tradition. Particular standout pieces included the Fairy’s costume and the impressively villainous attire worn by King Rat. Sound and lighting by CS Technical were, as ever, reliable and of a high standard, helping to shape the atmosphere and enhance the comedy, drama and magic of the performance. 

The warm welcome began even before the curtain rose, thanks to the friendly and well‑organised front‑of‑house team: Kathleen Snooks, Andrew Fielding, Claire Fielding, Dreda Glennie, Rusty Grayson, Trish Haigh, Jenny Hall, Bernadette Hayes, Janet Neill, Kate Warwick and Louise Warwick. Their hospitality set the tone for a relaxed and enjoyable evening. 

Overall, Dick Whittington was a heartfelt, humorous, and joyfully traditional pantomime. Exactly the kind of show that reflects the spirit of this long‑established society. As Marsden Parish Church AODS mark their 100th year in theatre, this production felt like a fitting celebration, fun, friendly and full of community pride, with singing, comedy and performances that left audiences smiling long after the final bow. 

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