DICK WHITTINGTON AND HIS CAT

This all-singing, all-dancing, high-quality, fun-filled family pantomime had every element a traditional panto should have – in bucket loads.

Dick Whittington and his Cat, written by Keith Marsden and Geoffrey Rundle, was full of panto tradition from the moment the lovely Fairy Moonbeam, played by Stephanie Laycock, first came onto the stage in a puff of smoke.  Her diction was excellent – a very clearly spoken young lady, who’s story telling left no one in any doubt about Dick Whittington’s direction of travel.

Very soon we were introduced to King Rat, ably played by Mark Hutchinson.  He also appeared in a puff of green smoke on the “baddies” side of the stage (in keeping with tradition).  The loud “boos” he received throughout his performance made sure he knew he was on track for playing the part right!

The main character in this whole panto is, of course, Dick Whittington – superbly played by Fiona Spencer, along with his friend Tommy the Cat, beautifully played by Danny Duckworth.  Fiona has an excellent stage presence in whatever role she plays and it was lovely to see her back at Keighley as principal boy.

It is Dick Whittingtons job to win over the heart of Alice Fitzwarren, who was brilliantly played by Brogan Hollindrake.  It is always great to see Fiona and Brogan play “opposite” each other in panto – you know that you have a quality duo that you can depend on.  They sang and danced together superbly and with ease.

Paul Jennings and Philip Smith as Daphne Dumpling and Idle Jack were full of mischief and worked really hard to keep the audience on their toes.  Their comic timing was excellent, and the kids went mad every time Idle Jack came onto the stage shouting for “Bonzo” the dog. 

There was great support from David Brett as Alderman Fitzwarren in his Discount Store in Threadneedle Street, and the Blot and Clot twins, played by Elliot Green and Bailey Roper, were fabulous as the “daft” solicitor duo.  Here are two young men to watch out for – they have a promising future ahead of them in musical theatre.

The cast of over 60 singers and dancers gave us an action packed evening.  Their singing and dancing was fantastic, and the costumes were excellent.  I lost count of the number of costume changes they all had!

Congratulations must go to director Peter Whitley and choreographer Judith Chapman who “controlled” this huge cast and brought laughter, tears, boos and hisses to a dreary February night.  It was panto at its best!

The band, under the musical direction of John Sandland played superbly throughout.  They had great volume control (ably assisted by sound director Oliver Trenouth) – which meant that they never drowned out the singing of the performers.  Everyone could be heard at all times and the volume was never too loud. 

With fabulous scenery, props and superb lighting and pyrotechnics this panto couldn’t fail to entertain. 

Thank you for a great evening’s entertainment.

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