Gloucestershire’s hometown hero returns to his roots this Christmas, when Dick Whittington and His Cat Tweedy takes centre stage at The Everyman Theatre from Friday 25th November to Sunday 8th January.
This purrr-fect pantomime adventure is a must on every festive family calendar, with spectacular sets and singalongs, a star-studded cast and gags aplenty set to transport audiences to the streets of London town, paved with gold…!
Everybody’s favourite clown Tweedy returns to Cheltenham’s iconic stage as Dick’s sidesplittingly silly sidekick, hoping to help his friend find fame, fortune and happiness in a magical rags to riches tale. Tweedy spent three weeks living with cats, as a cat, in preparation, and promises his most paw-some performance yet.
With the help of his feline friend and the fabulous Fairy Bow Bells, will Dick defeat King Rat to win the hand of his love and become Mayor of London? Sam Holmes and Phoebe Samuel-Gray star as the magical fairy and fair maiden Alice Fitzwarren, while returning favourite Kevin Brewis – the most dazzling dame of them all – looks set to have theatregoers of all ages in stitches as Sarah The Cook.
Tweedy said: “Sharing the magic of panto with family at Christmas is so special; it gets everyone into the festive spirit. And nowhere does it better than The Everyman Theatre!
“This year’s show has something for everyone: there are jokes for adults that go over the kids’ heads, slapstick for the little ones, songs, dancing and, of course, lots of opportunities for everyone to get involved.”
The tale of Dick Whittington is a local legend, inspired by the real Richard Whittington, who is believed to have been born at Gloucestershire’s Pauntley Court in 1352 to William Whittingon, Lord of Pauntley. He was sent to be apprenticed to John Fitzwarren at the age of 13, and later became known as the greatest merchant in medieval England – and Mayor of London four times, no less.
Award-winning writer Sam Holmes will co-direct alongside acclaimed director and choreographer Nick Winston, with the prolific Philip Witcomb, promising yet more sensational sets and costumes.
There are plenty of opportunities to see the annual Everyman panto, from morning to night throughout the festive season, with 56 shows to choose from, including audio-described and relaxed performances. Peak performances are selling fast, however there are great family rates still available.
So pack up your hanky and join plucky Dick Whittington, Tweedy and friends for an all-singing, all-dancing, traditional family treat at The Everyman Theatre. Available online now, tickets cost from £10 per person and are expected to get snapped up quicker than you can say ‘Christmas cheer!’ For more information and to book, visit www.everymantheatre.org.uk or call the box office on 01242 572573.