Review: DICK WHITTINGTON, Phoenix Theatre
Photo credit: Corinne Cumming
Drag is known for breaking the mould, going against tradition and breaking stereotypes. So what happens if you combine that with pantomime, the style of theatre with perhaps the most traditions and rules? Absolute chaos is what you get! Hilarious chaos, but chaos all the same!
Take any ideas you have about family friendly and don't just leave them at the door of the Phoenix Theatre, but at home! The Kings and Queens of this show hold absolutely nothing back whatsoever. Well, unless they forget a line or miss a cue, but that is all part of the fun.
We all know Dick Whittington, right? The story of a young person going to London with their cat to seek fame and fortune? This show follows the basic structure of that story and is written exactly like a panto would be, it just often heads off the rails in the most hilarious ways, making it truly a laugh a minute. The juxtaposition of uncontrolled cursing and childish pantomime storytelling is a comedy goldmine.
You can expect everything you want from this show to be there. There's meme references, Drag Race references, lip syncing, live vocals, audience banter, this show has it all!
We also must point out that due to cast illness, River Medway volunteered to join the cast just two days before this performance, being given just hours of rehearsal time. To be able to confidently stand on the West End stage and get through the show is an excellent feat, and a reminder that, right now specifically, understudies and swings are what is keeping theatre alive. Especially now it's winter.
Kitty Scott Claus also puts on a brilliantly entertaining performance as the Spirit of Soho, as well as, of course, Gemma Collins in Act 2, which Drag Race UK viewers will recognise from her Snatch Game in Series 3. Oh, and make sure you keep an eye out for a certain ensemble member who takes their multiple roles just a little too seriously.
Of course, the performance isn’t perfect, or by any means professional, but that is all part of the banter that makes the drag panto what it is, and helps make sure that there truly is something for everyone in the West End this festive period.
*** Three stars
Reviewed by: Callum Wallace
Dick Whittington plays at the Phoenix Theatre on select dates until 9 January 2022, with tickets available here.
