Dick Whittington at the Regent Theatre has all the ingredients for a very mappy Christmas

Dec 23 2009 by Will Harris, Crewe Chronicle

IF HEARTWARMING laughs for the whole family during the chilly festive period are you’re thing, then Dick Whittington at Hanley’s Regent Theatre delivers in spades.

Anyone wondering if a fifth successive helping of Jonathan Wilkes is too much ought to think again, as he revels in the title role.

Mixing up his loveable charm, talented vocals and local knowledge with a smattering of flirting with both cast members and audience, the Potteries favourite gives panto lovers a rogue of a lead man to carry any production in the land.

The fact that Welshman Christian Patterson as dame Sarah the Cook is developing an almost psychic bond with Wilkes in his third year at the Regent adds to it.

Despite the inevitable innuendos arising from the central character’s name, with Wilkes and Patterson steering the gags the joke doesn’t seem to get old.

And they are more than ably supported by a fine cast which includes stunner Amy Diamond as Alice Fitzwarren and Three Degrees singing sensation Sheila Ferguson, who is underused as the good Fairy Oatcakes.

Special mention should also go to the relatively unknown Steven Serlin who excels as the dastardly King Rat, making parents laugh and oozing just enough nastiness to horrify their children.

Times might be hard this Christmas, but for a guaranteed night of thrills, spills and laughter look no further than the Regent’s Dick Whittington.

Shows start at various times and tickets are £14-£23, phone the box office on 0844 871 7649 to book.