Dick Whittington

With a superb cast delivering all the qualities and enthusiasm that a pantomime should have, “Dick Whittington ” was certainly an audience pleaser on the opening night.

It was obvious from the start that this was going to be a polished performance thanks to the extremely talented production team of Director - Gill Jackson, Musical Director - Phil Walsh, and choreographer - Megan Crowley.

Alix Barlow played Dick Whittington and gave a very professional performance.  She has great stage presence and a lovely voice, delivering her musical numbers with confidence.

King Rat was played brilliantly by George McInnes-Scaife and he looked supremely imposing in his costume, and had the audience booing in all the right places. A convincing performance was given by Molly Cheetham who played Cat. Lucy Carter as Fairy Bowbells, kept the magic alive and narrated beautifully (and clearly) throughout the show. 

Another excellent performance was by Billy Bryant who played Idle Jack.  He managed to inject plenty of humour into his character, ensuring that the audience participated throughout. Great performances were given by Michael McGeough, who played Alderman Fitzwarren  and Katherine Robinson who played his beautiful daughter Alice.

As pantomime dames go Simon Field, who played the part of Sarah the Cook, gave us the perfect dame. He interacted well with the audience and delivered his one liners and innuendoes perfectly - which the audience reacted to and enjoyed!

As the show moved along we were transported aboard the Saucy Sal where we were introduced to The Captain played by Jack Hanson and his able sidekick Mister Mate, played by Robert Cox.  These 2 gents worked extremely well together and had great comedy timing.

During the voyage we also came across The Sultana of Takoradi played by Natasha Wills, and Will Blackie who played The Sultan of Takoradi. 

The chorus of citizens, rats, sailor’s, guards, palace attendants and dancers (from the cutest little tinies right through to the seniors), all played a vital part throughout the show and were a real asset to the production and delivered their performances with enthusiasm.  Not forgetting Deirdre the Dodo (Fergal Mullan Wilkinson) who added a nice comedy touch throughout!

The scenery, lighting, props and sound all enhanced this production.  “The Bow Bell Buskers” played superbly – and considerately - so that those on stage could be heard without being drowned out.

The wardrobe team must get a special mention – the costumes were so colourful and it was great to see everyone so beautifully dressed, complete with matching shoes! 

All in all an excellent production with lots of enthusiasm, fun and laughs for the audience. Congratulations to everyone involved.

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