Review: DICK WHITTINGTON AND HIS CAT, New Wolsey Theatre - Online

Photo credit: Mike Kwasniak

Did somebody say rock ‘n’ roll, Besties? Oh yes we did! New Wolsey Theatre’s annual panto provides exactly this.

Dick Whittington and his Cat, written by Vikki Stone, is a new version of the classic family favourite in true rock ‘n’ roll New Wolsey panto style. With direction by Douglas Rintoul and a fabulous selection of songs with cleverly remastered lyrics, this production has plenty of jam packed fun for all to enjoy.

Almost immediately a standout for this production is Emily Bestow’s bright and unique set design, which grabs your attention before the production has even started. This paired with Craig West’s fluorescent lighting design works brilliantly. Bestow’s joyful and creative costume design should also receive praise here.

Returning this year and leading the cast as the story’s hero is Luke Thornton with his happy go lucky, charming portrayal of Dick Whittington. Also returning this year to join Thornton is Elizabeth Rowe as Alice, and Steve Simmonds as King Rat. Rowe’s empowering vocals along with her fun loving, feisty Alice really captures the audience’s heart, whilst Simmonds conniving but sometimes humorous portrayal as King Rat is championed to receive both cheers and boo’s.

New additions to this year’s cast include Janna May as Fairy/Pirate, Myles Miller as Cat, and Max Kinder as Sarah. May’s portrayal as Fairy comes across as both warm and heartfelt in the show’s storytelling. Doubling up to play a pirate, there’s a really fun part of the show at the beginning of Act 2 but we won’t give anything away, Besties. Miller’s sassy portrayal of Cat and witty line delivery makes for some really good moments during scenes. Kinder is brilliant as Dame Sarah and brings a good deal of comedy, along with some great puns as you would expect from a pantomime dame. A mention should also go to supporting cast members including Olivia Bennett as Delivery Person/Mr Binhead, Jordan Eskeisa as Delivery Person/Rat Henchperson/Referee, and Eloise Richardson as Delivery Person/Giant Rat/Rat Henchperson, who all do a remarkable job at pulling the show together. We should also acknowledge Maggie Rawlinson’s choreography which is lively, energetic and works well in the flow of scenes.

This production also comes with some great music, with the actors playing a big part in this as all are not only actors, but talented musicians as well. This is hugely highlighted throughout and is one of the things that makes this show magical.

A stunning production which will have you rockin’ & rollin’ the night away! We would 100% recommend.

***** Five stars

Reviewed by: Emily East

Dick Whittington and his Cat plays at the New Wolsey Theatre in Ipswich until 20 January 2024, with further information here.