A pantomime in November? Oh yes, it is!
Some may argue that it is still far too early to begin celebrating Christmas. Me? I say bring on the mince pies and merriment! Which is why I jumped at the opportunity to snap up a ticket to Dick Whittington, A New Dick in Town! Which has just started its run at the Above The Stag Theatre in Vauxhall.
Growing up I would often go with my family to the local pantomime each year in my hometown, however, until last night, I was yet to see an adult pantomime. I can confirm that it would certainly turn a few heads back in my neck of the woods!
Much like the traditional tale, the story follows gay country lad Dick, as he comes to the big city in search of men and money. However, when dirty diva Queen Rat comes along and frames Dick for crime he hasn’t committed, it’s certain that Dick’s life will become harder than ever before (pun intended!).
Fronted by Jonny Peyton-Hill as starring role Dick Whittington, this powerhouse cast of five delivered a performance packed full of inappropriateness, innuendos, and insanity. From the first Grindr joke to the last, it was clear that we were in for a raucous raunchy ride, perhaps not for the faint of heart! Audience favourite Matthew Baldwin has returned after previously appearing in seven Above The Stage pantomimes to play the pantomime’s dame Sarah Fitzwarren of Fitzwarren’s Undertakers. From the first line, it was clear that we were in the hands of a pantomime professional. With off the cuff improvisation through audience interaction, to mishaps and mayhem unfolding on stage, Baldwin had the audience in the palm of his hand. Humour also came through thick and fast from sassy seductress of the sewer Queen Rat, played by Nikki Biddington, who is making her professional debut within the show. Biddington delivered every ounce of campery and drama that as an audience you crave from a pantomime villain, not to mention her phenomenal vocals throughout the performance. Double trouble was certainly afoot with Bradley Walwyn who played both of the Fitzwarren brothers within the performance. While the brothers may have been polar opposites in personality, the true highlight came in act two when they finally met “face to face”. It’s safe to say that Walwyn is a master of versatility and characterisation. The cast was completed by Keanu Adolphus Johnson, playing Alex, otherwise known as “The Spirit of London”, whom also delivered a stellar selection of outrageous one liners. 
When first entering the space, I was intrigued to see how they would utilise it throughout the performance, however, I was pleasantly surprised by the slickness and standard of all design elements throughout. With multiple sets and scenery, a fabulous array of costumes (in particular for pantomime dame Sarah), and an impressive LED screen archway, we were transported from scene to scene with ease. The aesthetic of all creative elements within the production truly are a feast of colour, character, and charisma. If you are looking for a titillating treat of tomfoolery this Christmas, head down to the Above the Stag Theatre and snap up a ticket to visit Dick! While this pantomime is packed full of popular panto traditions and original songs, you should brace yourself for a whirlwind ride of vulgarity, filth, and tongue and cheek humour, so do keep that in mind before you book!
Review by Adam Tipping
Rating: ★★★★
Seat: D7 | Price of Ticket: November Early Bird £24, all other tickest £28
