Dick Whittington – Lawrence Batley Theatre, Huddersfield

Writer: Andrew Pollard

Director and Choreographer: Rachel Gee

It’s pantomime season again – “oh yes it is!” – and this year Dick Whittington sails into Lawrence Batley Theatre in Huddersfield.

Packed full of all the essential panto ingredients, many of which are aptly presented by the show’s very own cook Sherrie Trifle (Pete Toon), the audience are delighted by this hilarious, joy filled, high energy performance with plenty of chances to join in.

Dick Whittington follows the story of Huddersfield boy Dick (Reece Carter) as he embarks on a journey from Huddersfield to London with his cat Meeowly Cyrus (Shorelle Hepkin). His great plan is to make his fortune, turning rags to riches in London – the city paved with gold. As with any pantomime story, it isn’t quite that easy, this time thanks to a small army of rats, led by Virminia, Queen of the Rats, played by local pantomime favourite Alyce Liburd. But will they stop Dick achieving his dream and will they get in the way of him wooing Alice (Sonia Wrightson)?

The set designed by Scenic Projects is exactly what you’d hope for from a pantomime set. It is grand, colourful and multi layered, allowing for slick scene changes. It takes us from village to ship, all the way to Las Vegas and back again.

The cast work extremely well together, their comedy timing is excellent, they are clearly feeding off the energy of one another. Pete Toon makes the perfect Dame in his role as Sherrie Trifle. He is absolutely hilarious and has the most amazing costumes, just as you’d expect from a great pantomime dame. Shorelle Hepkin as Meowly Cyrus is an audience favourite. She is a joy to watch and delivers her cat puns perfectly. Another stand out performer is Thomas Cotran as Idle Jack. He steals the show with his movement, travelling into the ‘basement’ using various means.

The music is a real crowd pleaser, packed full of popular songs known by all ages, particular favourites include Wellerman and a Spice Girls medley is a great treat.

There are so many highlights of this show. With cockney rhyming slang, local banter, dad jokes, feel good songs, puns galore and audience interaction a plenty, this show is an absolute treat for EVERYONE this festive season.

Runs until Tuesday 31 December 2024