DICK Whittington is a thigh slapping, sparkling, messy extravaganza that thoroughly entertains adults and children alike.

The traditional tale of Dick setting out to find his fortune in London is enhanced by a clever choice of music designed to appeal to children, helped by moments of slapstick comedy and some brilliant dancing by both professional dancers and children from Malvern's Cecelia Hall Dance Centre.

Paul Bradley, ex-EastEnder Nigel, easily wins the hearts of his young audience as Idle Jack, getting the biggest laugh of the evening when, while baking a cake with his mother Sarah the Cook, he gets absolutely covered in flower and custard.

Sarah herself is a fantastic panto dame. Dressed in flamboyant costumes and never short of a catty remark, Colin Roberts gives a great performance.

Kate Weston is also appealing as hero of the hour Dick Whittington. The former GMTV children's presenter interacted well with Rachel Mulcahy, who plays love interest Alice Fitzwarren. Rachel has the best singing voice in the show and the duet the pair sing together is very impressive.

Raising the most excitement, however, is King Rat, who inspires children to boo and yell, John Forgenham obviously enjoying the role.

He is defeated by the kind Fairy Bowbells, played by a sparkling Anna Karen, from On the Buses.

Dick Whittington is brilliant and had children literally jumping up and down with delight.

Jo Lafferty