Dick Whittington

Written by Sarah Nixon and Mark Chatterton
Directed by Mark Chatterton
Liverpool Everyman
28th November - 23rd January 2010

Reviewed by Colin Serjent

Like a pair of old slippers, the annual rock 'n' roll pantomime is warming and comfortable.

This year it is the turn of Dick Whittington to receive the familiar format of achingly bad (but nonetheless funny) jokes, men dressed in exceedingly silly costumes and most of the actors taking their turn on playing musical instruments.

Apparently one of the dames donned the biggest ever wig to be seen on a Liverpool stage!

The winter/spring programme for the Liverpool Playhouse and Everyman has been revealed.

Highlights include the world premiere of Ghost Stories, written and directed by Jeremy Dyson and Andy Nyman, the latter being co-creator and director of Derren Brown's television and stage shows (Playhouse, 4-20 February), presented by the Everyman & Playhouse; Northern Broadsides presents Medea, which draws you into a nightmare world of a vengeful woman (Everyman, 23-27 February); and Hansel and Gretel, presented by Kneehigh Theatre and Bristol Vic, which includes music, poetry and various amazing gizmos and gadgets (Everyman, 16 March - 3 April). This production is definitely aimed at adults.

Northern Broadsides also present The Canterbury Tales, which is a witty new version, adapted by Mike Poulton, for contemporary audiences (Playhouse, 23-27 March).

One production not to miss in April is The Glass Menagerie, presented by Salisbury Playhouse & Shared Experience. It is Tennessee Williams' compelling and searing portrait of a family in crisis (Playhouse, 7-10 April).

Another world premiere coming to the Playhouse is Canary, presented by the Playhouse & Everyman, English Touring Theatre and Hampstead Theatre. Written by Liverpool-born playwright Jonathan Harvey, it is an uncompromising and in some ways magical tale about love and sexuality, set against the changing backdrop of Britain up to present times (3 April - 15 May).

For more information about the full programme of events, go to www.everymanplayhouse.com

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