It’s panto season once again at The Regent Theatre – and this year marks the 20th year that Stoke-on-Trent’s own Jonny Wilkes has starred in the show.
Always seeing out the year with a bang, this year’s festive panto was true to form with a warm welcome for Christian Patterson, who returns after a two-year absence.
Along with Kai Owen the trio have made the panto their own, creating a winning formula full of warmth and humour.
It is Dick Whittington’s turn for the panto treatment this year – which anyone who is a regular will know means there is plenty of scope for endless innuendo.
Loosely following the tale of Dick Whittington’s adventures as he seeks to transform his fortunes by becoming the lord mayor, the story also sees him pit himself against King Rat, who is vying to take over the city with his team of rodents.
And of course, there is a love interest as Dick searches for the girl of his dreams in the shape of sweet shop owner Alice Fitzwarren.
Wilkes takes on the role of Dick, still bringing the boy next door charm to the role after two decades. As always, Wilkes delivers a slick performance – with his years of musical theatre showing in his singing and dancing. Wilkes also a takes a leading role in the raucous panto fun, with genuine laugh out loud moments, not least when the script goes awry.
It is here that Christian Patterson comes into his own, he is hilarious as Sarah the Cook, not only in the lines he delivers but his ad libs, interactions with the audience and other cast members, and the general chaos of the panto. His steps up to the institution of the dame with aplomb and is a huge hit with the audience.
Likewise, Kai Owen gives everything to the role of King Rat, and his part in the panto madness, and is a highly likely likeable villain while also getting fully stuck into the panto shenanigans.
Samar Casteallo is perfectly cast as Alice Fitzwarren, with the ideal mix of warmth and character to make the character engage with the audience. Gina Murray is excellent as The Spirit of the Bell Bows, bringing order to the chaos as she keeps the story moving along, she also delivers an exceptional vocal performance.
Completing the cast is the mesmerising Marlee Jay as Tommy the Cat, whose acrobatic performance is a real highlight of the show.
While the cast brings the magic, the set, costumes and choreography bring the class that sets the standard at Stoke-on-Trent to create a panto that is a cut above.
For Dick Whittington the set was exceptional providing a real feast for the eyes – as did some of the costumes, literally. While the tight, high-energy performance from the ensemble delivered the class expected from the choreography, cementing the quality of the show, it also ensures there is something for everyone to enjoy. As always the humour hits a certain tone, so be prepared!
Packed with jokes, searing innuendo, comic capers, singing, dancing and plenty of tradition, The Regent Theatre’s panto delivers the goods yet again.
For a fun-packed show, head to The Regent Theatre this Christmas, where Dick Whittington is on until Sunday, January 5. Buy tickets online now.
CNM
