It’s December and that can only mean one thing: it’s almost Christmas—well, two things, because now it’s panto season. Last night’s offering was Dick Whittington at St Helens Theatre Royal, who regularly put on four pantos per year. However, they go all out for their Christmas pantomime. It’s a Regal Entertainment production, written by David Phipps-Davis and directed under the helm of Chantelle Joseph.
For those who are unfamiliar with the story, Dick Whittington (Matthew Wolfenden) has walked the long journey to the bright lights of the English capital, London, all the way from Yorkshire—specifically Emmerdale Farm. His adventure comes with many a twist and turn. Firstly, he gains a little pussy cat called Tommi (Jenna Sian O’Hara), who has spent many a year at the circus because she can talk, but decided it wasn’t for her. Due to the town being overrun by rats, Dick and Tommi get a job at the Penny Pincher working for Felicity Fitzwarren (Richard Aucott) to help get rid of the rat infestation. Heading the rat clan is King Rat (Tim Lucas), whose objective is to bring terror to the town by becoming the Mayor of London—and it looks certain, as he’s seen off all the other candidates. That is, until Dick is made to become a candidate. It’s the fresh start he always dreamed of and the success he always wanted. This could be the way to win the heart of his true love, Alice Fitzwarren (Chantelle Morgan), daughter of Felicity.
There was a lot to love about this production. Tim was brilliant at getting the audience engaged in his evil plans, causing young audience members to boo, hiss, and even scream in fear. The star of the show was Jenna as Tommi, in my view, and we hope to see her on the stage more often. However, I felt that the panto at times felt too adult for the younger patrons in the audience. I know panto can be on the line with jokes to include both adults and children, but it felt more adult than family-friendly at times. They did offer a disclaimer after ten minutes that it would be PG; however, I felt it may have been better announced earlier on, because once they said that—after hearing some of the content already—I thought to myself, “Oh, what could they possibly say and do now?” However, I’m pleased to say it stayed on the same tone as before the disclaimer.
Whilst the performances are outstanding—especially from regular Lewis Devine as Idle Jack (this year), who was celebrating his eighth year as the panto comedy character—it would be nice to every now and then do a call-out like they did in their pantomime Snow White. Merseyside has a plethora of amazing talent, both as performers and writers. I believe it would be good to do that again and more often to bring in more and new jokes and showcase more talent. I also feel that, as it’s the big production of the year, it would benefit from a live band as opposed to tracks.
Whilst there were a couple of errors and mishaps with sound, we can’t take away from the fact that the audiences within that theatre last night let themselves go in the name of panto. This is, however, my own personal opinion that you may or may not agree with. I can’t fault the performances, especially from Matthew, who would belong on any stage in any musical with his warmth and welcoming presence. Theatre has, for many—myself included—shown us a world where anything is possible, and what a world that is.
Playing until 11th January 2026, https://www.sthelenstheatreroyal.com/show/873669110/
Reviewer: Luke Stephenson
Reviewed: 3rd December 2025
North West End UK Rating: