Caledon Townhall Players present Dick Whittington

One sure sign that Christmas is almost here is the Caledon Townhall Players Christmas show. This year they are presenting Dick Whittington, a classic, English pantomime with all the traditional fun and mayhem, which audiences have come to expect from the group's Christmas shows.

The story centres on young Dick Whittington,

who journeys to London to seek his fortune. He is accompanied along the way by his clever cat Tiddles, his dull-witted but loyal friend Barrow Boy Billy and his man-hunting Mum, Dame Sarah. They encounter villainous pirates led by Long John Tin Foil (Fred Bilton) and a rat army led by the evil King Rat (Andrew Miranda).

They all embark in a pirate ship on a quest for lost treasure. Battles ensue and there is much delightful confusion until Dick finally emerges triumphant and returns to become Lord Mayor of London and wed the girl of his dreams.

In keeping with pantomime tradition, where the principle boy is always played by a girl, the lovely Pam Cooper leads this very strong cast as Dick and by all accounts, thoroughly enjoys the swash-buckling sword fights. The Dame is himself, something of a classic. Mike Butterworth plays Dame Sarah with every gorgeous and voluptuous inch of his six-foot-two frame. He is a sight to behold and his bantering with the audience is not to be missed!

There is really something for everyone in this rollicking tale! There is action and adventure, romance, fantasy, singing and dancing choreographed by our Diana Hollister. The chorus, trained by music director, Bryan Cook, will delight you with their varied and often whimsical selections. Feel free to sing along! Audience participation is part of the fun. It's that kind of show.

This is great family entertainment and quite brilliantly directed and produced by long-time Caledon Townhall Players member Kim Blacklock.

The show opens Dec. 8 and runs for two weekends until Dec. 17. In addition to the Friday and Saturday evening performances there are Saturday and Sunday matinees both weekends. Evening performances start at 7:30 p.m. and the matinees at 1:30 p.m. Bring the family and join in the fun! It's a great way to start the Christmas season!

Special thanks to Meridian Credit Union and the Optimists for their generous sponsorships, which help to make this show happen.

Adult tickets are $10 and Kids under 12 are $5 with an accompanying donation to the food bank. Non-perishable food items (canned or dry goods) may be presented at the theatre box office. For more information or to purchase tickets by phone please call 519-927-5460. Tickets may be purchase by phone with a credit card or by cash at the box office. There is no reserved seating for this show.