A Palace of Dreams, pot-bellied cops, plenty of audience participation and a perfect cast has made Louth Playgoers’ Dick Whittington a huge success.
The slick sequence, flow and timing of this show make it a laugh-a-minute spectacular. Every audience member waving their arms in harmony and singing along to “Sweet Caroline” shows just how much this panto is adored.
Among the greatest joys is seeing so many children getting their first time on stage and building their confidence with such enthusiasm, whether as a dancer, singer or shipmate. Louth Playgoers’ future is in great hands thanks to the cast and crew of this outstanding show.
The superlatives flow from the moment the curtain goes up on Dick Whittington. It is a family show, though there are the inevitable innuendos, which are tastefully done.
There are limitless laugh-out-loud gags, stunning sets, gorgeous costumes, spectacular choreography from Studio 2000 dancers, memorable music from a live band and shining stars from as young as five-years-old. The Playgoers’ Dick Whittington has got the lot.

(Image: GJA Photography)
The Laughing Policeman sketch blew over the audience like a warm breeze. The young star rolling around holding his pot belly laughing was exquisite.
The audience had already banished the freezing temperatures with the rousing first song “Walking on Sunshine.” The fun and laughter and joy kept on coming. There is always intrigue with a Dick Whittington tale of a young lad seeking fame and fortune with a feline friend.
Local writer and pantomime genius, Philip Marshall Junior’s version captures the spirit of adventure and mystery. There is a healthy sprinkling of “baddies” which gets the audience hissing and booing.
Dick, beautifully played by Emma Wighton, travels with his cat and brother to find his fortune overseas in Morocco. However, the dastardly wicked Queen Rat, is also doing the same. Louise Ray made terrific panto debut on the Louth stage. She employs two rather dimwitted crooks to help her get one over on Dick.

(Image: GJA Photography)
This is where the superlatives kick in for Georgia Person and Philip Marshall Jnr who were totally awesome and perform as if they live for the theatre. Snicker and Guffaw are a brilliant duo, whose combined theatrical experience matches that of the dame.
Just one of their gags goes “Why is there no gambling in Africa?” Answer – because there are “too many cheetahs.”
Jamie Smith as Dame Helga Hootenanny, with the funny noises from his/her chest, is fantastic. He is inspiring a large and youthful cast to ensure a long and glorious future for the Playgoers. The dame plays the rather rambunctious school teacher in the Sultan’s Palace and there are a lot of hijinks in her Science lesson.
Jed Spittle is commanding as Sultan and his daughter Alice brings romance to life thanks to the wonderful Sophie Browne.
Another outstanding feature of the show is the singing. Katrina and the Waves’ 40-year-old hit, Walking on Sunshine is uplifting and Reach for the Stars is another heart-warming anthem.

(Image: GJA Photography)
Sabrina Carpenter’s “Please, Please, Please” is another one to enjoy whole-heartedly. The live band got everyone going with “Sweet Caroline” and it is difficult to recall an audience in the Playgoers long history, swaying with arms held high as they did. It was truly magical.
Well done to Laura Harris’ Fairy Bow Belle who kept the magic of the show flowing and to Tammy the cat, played alternately by Evelyn Lovelle and Halle O’Hare.
Take a bow, Bob Booth and Gary Starkie for a terrific set and the lighting and sound crew did a brilliant job as ever. Rich Precious’ debut as pantomime director is a masterclass in bringing together all the elements of a traditional panto with a modern twist. It has been woven together like a fine tapestry and created a show which should not be missed.
Dick Whittington runs until January 19. Tickets are priced £9 for children and adults £15, with £13.50 entry for theatre card members. These can be booked by checking outwww.louthriverheadtheatre.comor calling 01507 600350.