They’re back me ducks!! Jonathan Wilkes, Kai Owen and a returning Christian Patterson are back at Regent Theatre once again for their annual pantomime, and this time they’ve chosen to put their unique spin on Dick Whittington and his cat, and we get to go on a magical journey as he seeks fame, fortune and love on his quest to become Stokie’s Lord Mayor. But the evil rodent King Rat and his team of revolting rodents will stop at nothing to rule the city.
This particular production holds a special place in our hearts as it was the first Pantomime that we attended with our eldest child Lewis in 2014! He’s 13 with two younger brothers now, and it’s funny watching him starting to understand the underlying adult humour that for so long, he had no clue was happening. The show was amazing then, and it’s still amazing now.
It’s jam packed with fun and frolics, and enough innuendo and adult humour that the kids should probably be putting their hands over their parents ears! They get away with murder, but don’t worry, the jokes are clever enough not to offend young innocent ears.
Johnny Wilkes is celebrating 20 amazing years of hosting the festive fun at our beloved Regent Theatre. What an incredible achievement! His loveable personality is infectious as usual, and Kai Owen was superb once again as the villain everyone loves to hate.
And after a two year hiatus, Stoke’s favourite dame Christian Patterson made a welcome return to a rapturous and well deserved applause.
As I always say, it’s not Christmas until you’ve seen the Coca Cola Truck, Die Hard..... and Christian Patterson in a frock! There is no better panto dame in my opinion and whilst Johnny, Kai and the rest of the cast did a stellar job in the last couple of years, it just wasn’t the same without Christian and were so glad that he’s back.
Their rendition of The 12 Days Of Christmas is a favourite of mine, and I was so glad that it featured! And I’m happy to say that my youngest sons and a fair few others in the crowd were there to celebrate 111 year old Beryl’s Birthday!
With incredible music, choreography and stand out performances from the whole cast, the majority of which are learning their craft at the Wilkes Academy, the talent on display is simply incredible. The sets are stunning, the costumes direct from the London Palladium are superb, and with hits from Robbie Williams, Beyoncé, Queen and many more, it’s a festive feel good treat!
I’ve seen many comments on social media from people saying that there should be a line up change and that Johnny is only back for his annual pay off. They all need to give their heads a good wobble! They have no idea what this absolute gentleman contributes to the arts and charities locally, nationally and even globally! They stage an incredible show every single year, and the theatre is full for it. You know exactly what you’re going to get from the moment you walk through the door. It’s like putting on a comfy old pair of Christmas slippers and we wouldn’t want it any other way.
My three young experts had their say on what they thought of the panto in the video above! It’s safe to say that they absolutely loved it!
Quite simply it’s a hilariously funny show for all ages! Family fun was never so good! I’m already looking forward to Cinderella next year, and tickets are on sale now! Bring it on me Ducks!
Verdict: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
It's playing at the Regent Theatre NOW, up until and including Sunday 5th January. Tickets are on sale and are available by calling the Regent Theatre Box Office on 0844 871 7649. Relaxed performances are available! You can also visit www.atgtickets.com/stoke for tickets and info.