Dick Whittington at the Regent Theatre is an undeniable triumph, delivering a magical mix of humour, heart, and dazzling performances that cements Stoke’s panto as one of the highlights of the festive season. With a cast led by the beloved Jonathan Wilkes, celebrating 20 years of panto in his hometown, this production is a love letter to the city and its audiences, full of everything you could want from a Stoke panto and more.
At the heart of this production is Jonathan Wilkes, who embodies the role of Dick Whittington with effortless charm and a deep passion for the pantomime tradition. His connection with the audience is immediate and heartfelt, with every cheer and laugh showcasing the affection Stoke holds for him. Wilkes is a true showman, blending humour, song, and a sprinkling of local references that ensure every moment feels tailored to Stoke audiences.
Wilkes is joined by Christian Patterson, making a welcome return as the larger-than-life dame, Sarah the Cook. Patterson is nothing short of outstanding, balancing slapstick comedy, cheeky one-liners, and a warmth that makes the character feel endearing and familiar. His costumes are great, with each outfit more hilarious than the last, and his comic timing is impeccable.
Completing the trio is Kai Owen as King Rat, who steals the show with his playful, yet menacing, portrayal of the villain. Owen strikes a perfect balance between being despicably evil and hilariously lovable, a combination that has firmly secured him as an audience favourite. The chemistry between Wilkes, Patterson, and Owen is one of the production’s greatest strengths, with their camaraderie and infectious energy lifting every scene they share.
The supporting cast further enhances the production’s quality. Marlee Jay Ferguson as Tommy the Cat is excellent, with exceptional dancing that includes a crowd-pleasing death drop. Ferguson’s energy and charisma bring the character to life, earning rounds of applause throughout the performance.
Gina Murray as Spirit of the Bells and Samara Casteallo as Alice Fitzwarren both deliver strong performances. Casteallo brings warmth and charm to the role of Dick’s love interest with secure vocals. Together, they balance the humour and chaos with moments of sincerity and grace.
The hardworking ensemble deserves particular praise, with their vibrant dancing and tight choreography adding an extra layer of spectacle. Whether it’s performing energetic musical numbers or seamlessly transitioning between scenes, their dedication ensures the production runs like clockwork.
The humour in Dick Whittington is spot on, with a mix of classic pantomime tropes, local references, and sharp one-liners that cater to both children and adults. The return of the much-loved “12 Days of Stokie Christmas” is a highlight, bringing riotous laughter with its chaotic choreography and escalating silliness. The humour feels fresh yet faithful to panto traditions, a testament to the skill of both the writers and performers.
If there’s one area for improvement, it’s the clarity of the plot. While the show is packed with laughs and high-energy moments, the storyline occasionally takes a back seat, becoming slightly muddled in places. This isn’t a major issue—audiences come for the fun and spectacle—but a tighter narrative could have elevated the production even further.
Ultimately, Dick Whittington at the Regent Theatre is everything you’d expect from a Stoke panto: warm, funny, and full of heart. It’s a celebration of community and tradition, with a stellar cast and production team delivering a show that delights audiences of all ages. Whether you’re a regular attendee or a first-time panto-goer, this production is guaranteed to leave you smiling. If you’re looking for festive entertainment that brings joy to the whole family, Dick Whittington is a must-see.
Dick Whittington plays at the Regent Theatre until Sunday 5th January 2025.
Photography throughout from Claralou Photography.
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