The panto season is once again upon us, and a real feast of fun awaits audiences at the Regent Theatre in Stoke-on-Trent. This year’s production of Dick Whittington is everything that makes the traditional festive showcase both memorable and enchanting.   

Starring local lad and living legend Jonathan Wilkes and a stellar supporting cast, the story of Dick and his hapless shenanigans has audiences laughing and cheering at every twist and turn, as the plot plays out with characteristic slapstick comedy and risqué humour.

Coming complete with familiar local dialect and multiple references to the Six Towns of Stoke-on-Trent, the Regent panto is a massive Potteries event that really connects with its audience.

The show's story focuses of course on title character Dick, a young man who may seem a bit slow on the uptake to some folk but whose heart is pure and courageous. Dick is hoping to win the love of a beautiful maiden called Alice - played with joyful enthusiasm by Samara Casteallo - and not only wants to live happily ever after with her but also wishes to become Lord Mayer in the process! But before any of that can possibly happen, Dick must defeat the menacing King Rat, played with gusto and malevolence by the dastardly Kai Owen. Luckily for our hero, he has his clever and cunning cat Tommy (the talented Marlee Jay) at hand - a perfect rat catcher and a very impressive dancer, too.

There's so much to enjoy in Dick Whittington this year. For a start, it's Jonathan Wilkes' 20th year in panto at the Regent, and he really does put everything into his performance. Wilkes is genuinely funny, a great singer, and has a brilliant connection with his audience.  

This year also sees the return of Christian Patterson, playing Dick's mother Sarah the Cook - and no one plays a dame quite like Christian. With his acerbic wit and comic timing, he's absolutely made for the role. 

Another noteworthy performance is given by Gina Murray, who brings both clarity and elegance to the role of the beautiful Spirit of Bow Bells.

Credit must also go to the ensemble, who provide exciting dance routines, and chorus, with outstanding choreography and a great musical score.

The creative team behind this production have really pulled the stops out. The set is fabulously glitzy and beautifully designed, while the costumes are both imaginative and visually stunning. The special effects involving a big hairy rodent are awesome. As such, from start to finish, Dick Whittington makes for a truly engaging night at the theatre and a wonderful festive entertainment for the whole family to enjoy. Be sure to catch this 24-carat Christmas cracker of a pantomime!  

Five stars

Reviewed by Carol Lovatt on Friday 13 December. Dick Whittington continues to show at the Regent Theatre until Sunday 5 January.