Andy Munns
I had the pleasure of watching Salisbury Playhouse’s pantomime, Dick Whittington, and wow, it’s everything you could want… and more!
This year’s Panto is full of contemporary songs, satire, and innuendo (some subtle, some not so), but most importantly, it is full of fun!
The joins Dick and his cat Cosmo as they journey from Salisburyshire to London and take on the might of the evil King Percy Rat, who is taking over London and has his eyes set on the last remaining greasy spoon cafe.
Will Dick, Cosmo and Co overcome King Percy Rat? Well, you will have to go and find out for yourself, but there are some things I can tell you about the show.
The cast is great; Will Carey, as Dick Whittington, is very likeable and brings warmth to the show.
Oliva Hewitt Jones plays Alice, the daughter of Alderman Fitzwarren; her singing voice sparkles and delivers some lovely moments.
Lindo Shina is as funny as her character Cosmo the Cat is northern, playing on the north/south divide at times with some lovely comedic moments.
The rest of the cast is funny and warm, giving all those great panto feels with all the boxes ticked, and they look great in their costumes.
The youth members of the cast bring great energy through their performances when on stage, highlighting the local performing talent that we have around Salisbury.
The set design is clever and used well in the performance, and there are local references that will make you smile and let you know that this is a proper local panto.
Will Jennings, for me, is the star of the show, his comedic timing is superb, and his performance of King Percy Rat is excellent. You will love to hate him as he plays with the audience and the rest of the cast.
Be prepared to dance, clap and sing along for a few hours of relief from everyday life – as such; it delivers everything that a festive panto should in droves – escapism!
Tickets can be purchased via the Wiltshire Creative website – https://www.wiltshirecreative.co.uk/events/dick-whittington
