Hit rock 'n' roll pantomime Dick Whittington and his Cat is delighting audiences at Ipswich's New Wolsey Theatre – oh, yes it is! 

For anyone needing a synopsis of the story;  Brave hero Dick (with his cat in tow) journeys from Ipswich to London to seek his fame and fortune. But the question is, can he outwit the evil King Rat, free the City from his team of revolting rodents and win the hand of the one he loves? 

Panto fun (Picture: Mike Kwasniak)

All was revealed to the audience who had braved Storm Henk to discover what the theatre's artistic director Douglas Rintoul had created with the award-winning comedian, writer, and composer Vikki Stone to produce a 21st-century reimagining of the classic folktale. 

Rock 'n' roll pantos are synonymous with the venue, and I'm always up for lots of laughs and masses of music. However, with an audience age spanning eight-month-olds (literally) to eighty-year-olds and more, it's always a challenge to pitch a script and music to suit all ages.

Incoming writer Ms Stone has chosen to go down a more contemporary music route. Reflecting her present-day outlook, she has moved on from the Rock dominant song lists from the shows of earlier years.

In her programme interview, she says that  because of the broad audience age range she looked "for a mix of songs across the show from funny ones to  absolute bangers." 

Panto duo (Picture: Mike Kwasniak)

From a song list of sixteen numbers, I've picked standouts as being  Katy Perry's Firework, Bonnie Tyler's Holding Out For A Hero, and Katrina and the Waves' Walking On Sunshine; but I would give the most praise for including The Proclaimers brilliant I'm Gonna Be (500 Miles) – all 'bangers' but it was disappointing not to see anybody dancing to them.

The ensemble's general cheerfulness and comedic talent were equally enjoyable, particularly by the outrageously over-the-top Dame Sarah played by Max Kinder. And the way he coaxed audience member Jacob onto the stage to give an accomplished impromptu performance was amazing.                                             

Myles Miller's role as the Cat with no name was another standout. Blessed with lots of the best lines, and played with a touch of campness, Myles expertly created his slinky  'cool' cat character.

Steve Simmonds as King Rat was another commanding on-stage presence, eliciting boos and laughs in equal measure. Not the vilest of villains but great fun.

Before the show commenced, I was lucky enough to grab a chat with Luke Thornton (Dick) and Elizabeth Rowe (Alice) who were touring the auditorium. Charming off stage, as well as on it, they gave engaging performances which must have won over many younger hearts when they became a couple.

Space precludes me from describing other roles, but Olivia Bennett, Jordan Eskeisa, Janna May and Eloise Richardson all worked their socks off in various guises as part of a company obviously enjoying its work.  

I must give voice to everybody's admiration for the all-round versatility and flair of the entire cast, particularly their multi-talents on saxophones, keyboards, cello, guitars, drums and, eh, water pistol. Great stuff, Guys.

Special mention should also be made of all those who provided the costumes, lighting, sound, choreography and all the technical stuff which contributed so much to making it all possible and so enjoyable. 

Although it was a full house on my visit to the always warm and welcoming New Wolsey Theatre, I understand that there is still some ticket availability. They can be purchased from the box office, at www.wolseytheatre.co.uk, or on 01473 295900.   

Audio-described and captioned options are available for the show which continues until Saturday 20th January. 

Panto romance (Picture: Mike Kwasniak)