It’s not very often you can describe a show as perfect, but, Dick Whittington 2016/2017 at the Birm Hip is a true entertainment and theatrical delight!
With stela casting, faultless writing, a stunning set, costumes, lighting & sound – it’s the benchmark for professional Panto.
The glorious Birmingham Hippodrome is the biggest regional theatre outside of the West End and therefore gets first dibs on the biggest Stars and best shows – pantomime is no exception.
This year they have the stunning energy of Matt Slack (5th consecutive year) who drives the entire show magnificently, John Barrowman who is superb & The Krankies who offer pure class throughout.
Add to that the vocally sensational Jodie Prenger, Steve McFadden as the perfectly cast King Rat & the delicious Andrew Ryan as Dame – you’ve got a 5* masterclass in Live variety & entertainment.
The ensemble were the best I’ve seen this year and the choreography, choice of music & staging was truly remarkable.
I loved that this show is PACKED with big dance & cast numbers. That takes endless time and effort!
Don’t miss Dick through Jan 29th in Birmingham.
This panto is truly a triple threat of content, star power and WOW factor.
With a gigantic rat, flying sleigh & (an OTT) 3D segment – this show is the epitome of spectacular.
Janette Krankie steals the hearts with her beautifully crafted schtick with husband Ian. Pure vaudeville brilliance and the kids to grand parents LOVED every second of it!
John Barrowman played off them admirably and offers remarkable energy, presence and a truly wonderful voice throughout.
He’s a Star, simple as that! He absolutely deserves his pay cheque and ovation. An effortless pro.
Meanwhile, the shortest name on the poster (with the least ‘celebrity’) but arguably the biggest appeal steals the show (again)….
Matt Slack is remarkable and is worth the ticket price alone. His production ‘bits’ are beautifully crafted and you just can’t help love his infectious warmth and act.
He never crosses the line (unlike so many in panto), yet, he still pulls off ‘cheeky’ and daring with breath-taking ease.
I can’t say enough good things about this show. There is never a dull moment and you can feel and see where every penny of your £42 ticket money is spent.
The script is naughty, riddled with innuendo & risque but never feels vulgar. A rare art!
Beating last years show with the outrageously brilliant Julian Clary was a huge challenge, but they did it through hard work, rehearsal, crafting and care.
Bravo Micheal Harrison Qdos – unquestionably the most respected & busiest name in 2016 theatre.
Next year Brimingham get this years Palladium production, and next week I finally visit Cinderella. The ambition of Qdos (who now produce over 30 pantos in the UK) is astounding.
Long may their precision, success and fabulousness continue for the joy of the punters. Nobody else comes anywhere close!
Review by Alex Belfield for Celebrity Radio 30th December 2016.
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