Stafford Gatehouse panto kicks off

This festive season will see Dick Whittington and his trusty friend Tabby the Cat dancing, twisting and singing their way to London in search of fame and fortune while attempting to outwit the evil King Rat and catch the eye of beautiful Alice until January 6.

The show is the seventh consecutive Rock ‘n’ Roll panto at the Gatehouse Theatre since its return in 2012.

The show's organisers have said the first performances have been a hit with the audience.

Jemma Harrison, spokeswoman for the theatre, said: "We are thrilled with the reception we have received from the first few shows, the audience reaction has been fantastic and we are receiving great feedback.

"There is a real connection between the cast and the audience that is truly unique and the musical arrangements fit in with the show superbly. The whole production team, from the director to the props team have worked tirelessly to ensure a great festive offering for those lucky enough to see the show."

This year, the theatre welcomes back director Rob Salmon, production designer Deborah Mingham, choreographer Verity Bray, and the music director of Stafford Festival Shakespeare’s Macbeth, David Hewson.

Joining them in the cast are Max Runham as Dick Whittington, Laura Sillett as Alice, Peter Manchester as the Dame, Sarah the Cook, Guy Freeman as Billy Bungalow and Tomas Wolstenholme as King Rat.

Tickets for Dick Whittington are priced at £20 for adults, £15.50 for concessions and £66 family. School and group discounts are also available - full information on these can be obtained from the Box Office.

Tickets can be booked by calling the box office on 01785 619080 or by visiting staffordgatehousetheatre.co.uk