Dick Whittington (Stockport)

There is no better way to kick off the festive season than with a family trip to the local pantomime. This year, the beautifully ornate Stockport Plaza stages the self proclaimed ‘North West’s Premier Family Pantomime’ production of Dick Whittington, that sadly will leave you feeling less like decking the halls and more like pondering the prospect of a blue Christmas.

There are only seven productions of Dick Whittington playing nationally this year and those youngsters unfamiliar with the rags to riches story won’t be procuring their education from this company. It is a tale steeped in history, but without reading the lengthy synopsis in the programme, you could be forgiven for neither understanding, nor caring about the outcome.

John Challis (better known as Only Fools and Horses' Boycie) reprises his villainous reputation with lacklustre enthusiasm, former Coronation Street actress Jayne Bickerton is anything but enchanting as Fairy of the Bells, and despite an impressive performance in disco number "Head Over Heels", Emma Vinette Woods as Alice Fitzwarren is rather forgettable.

Not all key components have been completely eviscerated and pantomime lovers who are expecting a predictable experience will not leave disappointed. Salacious pantomime dame and cutesy kiddie participation aside, stripping back the showmanship reveals a weak and fractured narrative that borders on the absurdity.

But amongst the dreary drones of the Bow bells, there are glimpses of gold paved streets. CBBC’s Gary Damer (who returns to The Plaza due to popular demand) carries the show as the loveable Idle Jack. The set design is impressive, the costumes are dazzling, and the architecturally exhilarating art deco auditorium that prospered through the golden age of Hollywood and has been lovingly restored as a cine-variety house, serves up an interval treat from its revered Compton Theatre Organ.

As a debut experience for a first time patron Dick Whittington may just provide enough entertainment, but those with a more ostentatious expectancy will leave feeling grateful that ‘it’s behind you!’

– Sarah Bloomer