The Pompey Panto is famous around this area for being spectacular every year. When the curtain went up at the kings the festive season well and truly begins in Portsmouth!
We LOVE Panto and let’s face it nothing is more British than a Panto at Christmas is it?! This years classic tale at the Kings is Dick Whittington, the poor boy who leaves Gloucester to make his fortune and goes on to become the Mayor of London with the help of his cat.
The Cast
This year’s cast are simply outstanding! Everyone really does shine throughout the entire performance. What’s lovely about the Kings is that it prides itself on having home grown talent in their productions as well as household names and this year is no different!
• Eastenders Lorraine Stanley takes on the Villain we all secretly love but have to boo, Queen Rat. She absolutely dazzles in this role and you can tell she has so much fun with it!
• In the title role is George Sampson, who danced his way to the final and went on to win Britain's Got Talent back in 2008. We can confirm he hasn’t lost his dancing skills but as well as this we were pleasantly surprised that he has a great singing voice too! He plays the gentle, unlikely hero with style and hold his own beautifully.
• There is nothing like a Dame and nobody plays a Dame like the fabulous Jack Edwards! Jack’s comic timing is simply impeccable and you can clearly see why he is such a huge part of Portsmouth’s theatre culture. This year marks his 10th Year of appearing in Panto at the kings!
• Playing the role of Fairy Bowbelles is Julia Worsley. Julia’s portrayal is an absolute delight! Her presence and enchanting performance casts a magical spell over the audience.
• Imogen Bailey is bubbly, bright and charming as Alice and Joe Rowntree as her mischievous brother Billy really brings the fun!
• Jacob Bailey plays the cat! Considering he didn’t have many lines, he was a massive presence in the show. So much so he was Masons favourite character! His cool and modern take on this loved Panto roll was just brilliant!!
Our Verdict
This Panto really had everything and so more! Fun and whimsical traditions of pantomime you’d expect , such as the iconic ghost bench to the hilarious 12 Days of Christmas song! Expect Panto with a Pompey spin! So creative, one of the major special effects will take your breath away (no spoilers). It really is a wonderfully festive experience, the perfect for all ages! The Pompey Panto really is for everyone! We were genuinely so impressed with the way they pulled it off and it really draws you into the magic.
Dick Whittington is playing at The Kings Theatre until 31st December 2024,
Don’t delay book your tickets here
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