Writer: David Phipps Davis
Director: Chantelle Joseph
The countdown to Christmas has officially now begun in St Helens as it basks under the reflection of a million sparkling diamantes, in this bumper panto production.
Our delightful Fairy Bow Bells (Rachael Wood) officially rings in the start of the festive panto season, with the air of a cheeky Barbara Windsor, there are plenty of Carry-On capers to be relished. From the off, we pick up the pace with a medley of song and dance routines as the characters cascade onto the stage. No stone is left unturned, featuring show tunes from Oliver to Cats, skits including Benidorm and Swan Lake, whilst squeezing in a cameo from the Gallagher brothers, aerial dancing and a spot of 3D (which brings screams of delight from children in the audience). All weaved throughout is the familiar story of Dick Whittington (with a cruise thrown in the plotline), the show delivers plenty of interesting and kooky elements to keep the whole family entertained.
As expected, we’re treated to a deluge of ‘Dick’ related jokes, which will get never tiresome. David Phipps Davis’ script is packed tight, and sprinkled with cheeky, near the knuckle innuendos and topical gags which hits the spot.
The introduction of an audience cam provides plenty of laugher as panto favourite Lewis Devine (back as Idle Jack) gently pokes fun at various audience members. There’s also plenty of amusement as the spray from the water guns can be felt right at the back of the stalls, with the action bouncing off the stage and into the auditorium.
Most scenes are framed, as always, by the fantastic Dance Dynamix Dancers – who are in their element! The act one finale is a vision to behold. We’re transported to a glittering, Las Vegas style sparkling, spectacle of Liberace campness. Flamboyant, extravagant, and pure theatrics. Glorious!
Directed by Chantelle Joseph and Assistant Director Kay Nicholson, the production keeps to a pace which allows the action to unfold without losing its momentum. The strong cast of six do well to not get lost within the sound effects, set design and wonderful costumes which all enhance the story of Dick (Emmerdale’s Matthew Wolfenden) and his magical cat Tommi (Jenna Sian O’Hara). Tim Lucas’s King Rat is a fantastic villain, despite some slightly overcooked ad-libs, the audience revelled in his wickedness. Wolfenden’s Dick Whittington is comfortable, confident and cocky, strutting around like a rock star. At times he could give Devine a run for his money.
This fairy-tale is all wrapped up just nicely, and we’re sent away with a happy ever after which takes the breath away. You’re guaranteed the spectacular, with a layering of risqué smuttiness. Utterly charming as always, the Theatre Royal is the venue where you will see panto in its truest form.
Runs until 11th January 2026
The Reviews Hub Star Rating
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8
