A retelling of the classic pantomime tale, tweaked to make it completely unique to Exeter Northcott Theatre. With new characters and jokes for all ages, this is sure to entertain!
Thu 30 Nov, Northcott Theatre
by Mia Zeppenfeldt
On its opening night on Thu 30 Nov 2023, I went to see Exeter Northcott Theatre’s 2023 Christmas pantomime, Dick Whittington. Directed by Alex Jackson, this show is a collaboration between Exeter Northcott Theatre and Le Navet Bete (who co-wrote the script with Daniel Buckroyd), after having successfully worked together before. My impression is that this show is yet another remarkable achievement for all those involved – ‘Oh yes it is!’
The story follows a young man named Dick Whittington (Elliot Coombe) who has come to London to find work and ‘streets paved with gold’. However, things are not as they seem as the evil Queenie Rat (Stephanie Lysé) and her minions do everything in their power to stop him from becoming the Lord Mayor of London, the job that was destined for Dick through a prophecy made by Fairy Bow Bells (Jodie Micciché). He navigates love, friendship and danger as election day approaches.
This version of the pantomime keeps the familiar rivalry between good and evil – plus a hilarious Dame in Matt Freeman – whilst also including extra humour and adjustments to the text to tailor it specifically to Exeter and the Northcott. Especially seeing as I have seen multiple productions of Dick Whittington previously, these personalised touches made this particular interpretation of the original story very unique. The inclusion of AI rats and Dick Whittington’s call to ‘Alexa’ definitely were not things I had seen before!
I was pleasantly surprised to find that the show was inclusive to all ages and that, looking around, everyone in the audience was equally in stitches by the end. The vocals and dancing were just as impressive, with a remarkably high amount of energy throughout, which made me appreciate the performers’ craft even more. The performance, in terms of costume, set, and company alike, was simply so colourful, drawing me in and keeping me hooked.
Final Thoughts
No matter whether you know the story or not, this rendition of Dick Whittington will surprise you! This is a must-see this Christmas.
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