DICK WHITTINGTON & HIS WONDERFUL CAT

I was impressed with the way the Pantomime was written, and directed.  I think it must be a great feeling of accomplishment to have your creation played out on stage – and I thought the cast did so well.  I saw two performances as there were two casts of young people, both principals and ensemble – and both performances were very different!  A very obvious difference between an early in the run and later in the run show – plus reactions to the change in junior cast, I really enjoyed seeing it twice.

The sets were good, some nice touches and well-dressed, however, I felt there were a few too many blackouts – a more seamless move between scenes was adopted in some places but not others, although the second performance I saw was definitely much slicker.  Costumes were mostly suitable for the actors, some of the junior ensemble’s hair needed attention!

Musically, it was superior, different music choices which were executed beautifully, with great accompaniment from the band, and good harmonies.  I particularly liked the Alderman’s ‘Lullaby’ and what I felt was the pre-opening song, which was beautiful and well-delivered by the ladies of the ensemble.  Some good rapping too.  All in all, I loved the music.

Technically very good – great lighting plot from Dave Houghton, he never lets us down, and sound was also effective.  I felt the ‘kitchen’ scene was a little too drawn out, but it worked well.

Choreography was nicely pitched to take into account all abilities, I enjoyed the diversity.

Alex Currie (Dick Whittington) gave us the swash-buckling hero, very upbeat, and a good relationship with Katicia Blanchard (Alice Fitzwarren), who was charming and feisty – I enjoyed this pairing very much, they interacted and sang well.

Alex Parsons (Sarah the Cook) created a slightly softer Dame than usual, but I thought it was nicely crafted, again Alex had progressed in confidence on the second showing.  All the usual ‘Dame’ references were very on point.

Kate Johnson (Idle Jack) gave a stand out performance, loads of energy and fun, and good audience interaction – excellent.

Ben Jaggers (Alderman Fitzwarren) had the necessary gravitas when needed, but also showed a softer side, with lots of humour – nicely achieved.

Mel Ramsey (Fairy Bow Bells) had great fairy-like qualities, with a wry humour that was appreciated by all – I enjoyed her portrayal.

Luke Murphy (King Rat) took a step into the world of evil, and did it well, I liked his followers, the edgy Indy H & Tegan W (Remy) and Grace C & Alice B (Rizzo) (shared parts – I saw each at different performances – a different vibe from each set, but equally as good).  They all interacted well and gave us a good group, with some fun amongst the wickedness.

Sophie-Sue H & Elodie R (Tommy the Cat at the different performances) were very diverse in their interpretations – Sophie-Sue was very cheeky, whilst Elodie was more matter of fact, both created a believable cat – very well done.

The junior ensemble were very sweet and well-drilled, they added much the joy of the piece – it’s unfair to single out one person, but little Cassie R really gave her all with unbounding enthusiasm, lovely to see from the most diminutive cast member!  The adult ensemble gave much in terms of music and movement to the proceedings – always much-needed in a panto.

My thanks to Josh and others for hosting us – they were very attentive and there was plenty of background information available – a very enjoyable two performances.

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