Disclosure - We were invited to the show for the purpose of this post. All thoughts, opinions and photographs are our own.
We recently visited St Helens Theatre Royal to watch this year’s Christmas pantomime, Dick Whittington, and once again it reminded us why this venue has firmly become part of our festive family traditions. We visit the Theatre Royal every Christmas for their pantomimes and year after year they deliver the perfect blend of family fun, humour, brilliant casting, and the kind of heart-warming chaos that makes panto season so special. This year was no different, in fact it may be one of our favourites yet.
The Story of Dick Whittington
The classic tale of Dick Whittington follows the adventures of a young man who travels to London seeking his fortune, believing the streets are paved with gold. Along the way he meets new friends, faces mischievous villains, and discovers that bravery, kindness, and a little bit of magic can lead you to exactly where you’re meant to be. With pirates, rats, romance, silly antics, and catchy musical numbers, this year’s panto offered a colourful retelling of the well-known story while keeping all the traditional panto fun that audiences adore.
The Cast
St Helens Theatre Royal always deliver when it comes to casting and this year was probably our favourite.
Matthew Wolfenden as Dick Whittington
Matthew Wolfenden took on the role of Dick Whittington with warmth, charm, and plenty of stage presence. He was instantly likeable, effortlessly connecting with the audience and carrying the story with confidence. His musical numbers were standout moments, and he brought the perfect mix of leading-man energy and classic panto playfulness. Matthew is a fantastic addition to the Theatre Royal’s festive line-up this year.
Timothy Lucas as King Rat
Timothy Lucas was absolutely brilliant as King Rat. A natural panto villain with impeccable comic timing, he had the audience booing, laughing, and cheering within seconds. Timothy’s nods to modern culture including references to “brain rot” and the infamous 6…7…trend had the kids (and plenty of adults!) in fits of laughter. He is one of those performers who knows exactly how to work a panto crowd, and his scenes were some of the funniest of the night.
Lewis Devine as Idle Jack
A family favourite of ours, Lewis Devine returned once again as Idle Jack – and it’s easy to see why he has been part of the Theatre Royal family for eight years. Lewis is a natural entertainer who always knows how to get the children giggling, the grown-ups smiling, and the whole theatre buzzing. His interaction with the audience is second to none, and his chemistry with the entire cast is brilliant. Idle Jack and King Rat together were an absolute comedy duo – every shared scene was hilarious and perfectly timed, showing just how strong the panto cast is this year.
A Strange Underwater Surprise
After the interval came an unexpected twist: we were all handed 3D glasses for a short underwater adventure. It lasted only a few minutes but felt completely out of place with the rest of the show. While it didn’t add anything to the story, the kids absolutely loved it – and in pantomime, anything goes, right?
Where, When and Booking Info
Dick Whittington is running at St Helens Theatre Royal, Corporation Street, St Helens, WA10 1LQ, throughout the festive season. Performances run from Saturday 6th December 2025 through to Sunday 12th January 2026, with a variety of morning, afternoon and evening showtimes available, perfect for families planning festive days out.
Why We Love St Helens Theatre Royal
St Helens Theatre Royal is a venue we return to time and time again. It has a welcoming atmosphere, great accessibility, friendly staff, and a cosy, traditional theatre feel that makes every visit special. Whether it’s the warm lighting, the intimate seating, or the excitement that builds the moment you walk inside, there’s something magical about seeing a Christmas show here. It’s one of our favourite theatres in the North West and a place that always guarantees a fantastic family day out.
We absolutely loved this year’s production of Dick Whittington. With a strong cast, laugh-out-loud moments, brilliant musical numbers, and that unique St Helens panto charm, it’s another festive hit for 2025. If you’re looking to book a Christmas pantomime full of fun, silliness, and heart, St Helens Theatre Royal is the place to be.
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Michelle
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