Review: Dick Whittington – Mercury Colchester
The Mercury Theatre in Colchester turn their attention to Dick Whittington this year with all the festive Panto fun we have come to expect from this fabulous Essex theatre.
London is plagued with rats, in fact they are everywhere, but it’s ok the Ratty King is taking care of them… or so he says!
Heading for the capital is Dick Whittington, who down on his luck, is heading for the big smoke to make is fortune. Along the way Dick befriends a cat, who just happens to be an expert ratter.
The people of the city have declared that whoever can rid their streets of rats will be the next Lord Mayor. But will Dick take on this challenge, or will the evil Ratty King stop him and take the position for himself?
The Mercury pantomime is always full of traditional festive fun and this year’s offering certainly doesn’t disappoint, with a bright colourful set and lots of audience participation from the start.
Glenn Adamson takes on the role as Dick with ease and his onstage chemistry with Alice Fitzwarren, played by Grace Eccle was lovely. The tale of Dick Whittington would not be complete without his sidekick cat, and Gracie Lai played the purrfect pussy, extremely agile and her performance of Midnight from the musical cats was pure magic.
Ignatius Anthony is the evil villain who just has to be booed and hissed at as the evil King Rat, however Fairy Bow Bells (Barbara Hockaday) always seems to have the upper-hand!
Audience favourite Dale Superville, makes a return to the Mercury as Idle Jack and he certainly didn’t disappoint, his antics on stage really loved by the younger members in the auditorium.
Every pantomime should have its dame and Antony Stuart-Hicks, with legs women envy and the ability to dance in some amazingly high heels, has to be one of the best Dames in Pantoland. His quick wit and amazing comic timing made his performance extremely enjoyable, and don’t worry mums and dads, his more risqué jokes go over the heads of the little ones!
A very strong cast brings this magical story to life, with great dance routines and well-known songs – with lyrics cleverly changed to fit in with the storyline. Dick Whittington at the Mercury Theatre is full of fun, laughter and merriment and should definitely be on your list this Christmas.
Dick Whittington is at the Mercury Theatre, Colchester until 8th January. To book tickets telephone the Box Office on 01206 573948 or visit www.mercurytheatre.co.uk
Review: Wendy Cook, Ipswich24
Pictures: Pamela Raith
