Salisbury (shire) has the colourful production of DICK WHITTINGTON for their 2023 annual pantomime. Writers Plested, Brown and Wilsher take Dick Whittington (Will Carey) to the streets of London to attempt to make his fortune to help “do up” Salisbury. Leaving his Mother, the Pantomime Dame Sarah the Cook (David Rumelle) behind.

Dick and his cat Cosmo (Lindo Shinda) take the long walk to London. You might wonder how many wrong turns he takes along the way especially when he goes through the Scottish Highlands. When he finally arrives he meets Alice (Olivia Hewitt-Jones) and her Dad Alderman (Hugh Osborne) whose business is struggling and asks him to work for them.

King Percy Rat (Will Jennings) has taken over the mean streets of London. Friends in high places (Rishi Sunak and David Cameron apparently) who help him with his corrupt business deals. He was particularly grim at one point and one of the children shouted “You’re gross” The timing was impeccable and hilarious.

Costume Designer Zoe Squire creates plenty of striking Costumes throughout the cast from the 1960s influenced dress worn by Natalie Winsor in the role of Fairy Bowbells to the distressed black suit worn by King Rat. The attention to detail shines out from the stage.

There’s a lot of adult humour in this production which I am sure was lost on the younger audience, certainly was appreciated by the adults though. However, the children seemed very engaged throughout the performance and knew exactly when to boo and cheer without any prompts from the cast.

Dick Whittington is worth checking out this season. Director Gareth Machin has created a festive treat for all the family to enjoy.

For more information on this pantomime and future productions at Salisbury Playhouse please use the link below.

Four Stars.

Photo credit The Other Richard.

https://www.wiltshirecreative.co.uk/events/dick-whittington