Mumbler Champion Elfie Review:
My friend and I embarked on a festive journey at Harrogate Theatre on opening night (Friday 24th November), for the unmissable annual Christmas panto, ‘Dick Whittington’. From the moment the curtains rose, we were swept away into a world of laughter, sparkle, and local charm!
The standout characters of the night were undeniably the villainous King Rat and the loveable Idle Jack. Tim Stedman’s portrayal of Idle Jack, a lovable buffoon, showcased his 23 years of panto mastery at Harrogate Theatre. His performance, coupled with the traditional panto elements, made for an evening filled with belly-laughs, sweet throwing, water squirting, and abundant audience participation!
The production was nothing short of slick, with excellent costumes that truly added to the magic on stage. It was evident that a considerable amount of time and effort went into crafting each scene, creating a visual feast for the audience.
What set this panto apart was its perfect blend of tradition and local flavour. The familiar rags-to-riches tale of the orphaned boy seeking fortune in London was peppered with Harrogate references, adding a delightful twist to the narrative. The incorporation of the 12 days of Christmas song in true Harrogate style was a particular highlight, showcasing the writers’ creativity.
The musical arrangement was a delightful mix of new and current tunes alongside timeless classics, appealing to a diverse audience of all ages. This, combined with the local twists and references, made for a truly immersive experience that resonated with both seasoned panto-goers and newcomers alike.
In summary, ‘Dick Whittington’ at Harrogate Theatre is a fantastic, traditional panto that exceeded our expectations. Packed with sparkle, humour, and a touch of Harrogate magic, it’s a must-see for anyone looking to embrace the festive spirit. The dedication of the cast and crew shines through, making this production a standout success. We left the theatre with hearts full of joy and a newfound appreciation for the magic of Christmas pantomimes.
Reviewed Nov 2023 by Mumbler Champion Elfie
Disclosure: We were gifted our tickets to Dick Whittington however we pinky promised to only write a truthful account. Phew, we really enjoyed it! (otherwise that could have been awks!)
