REVIEW: Dick Whittington at the Opera House, Manchester

The Krankies have returned to Manchester Opera House staring in Dick Whittington, alongside Hollywood showman John Barrowman.

In their third project together, Barrowman and Janette and Ian Tough, elevate the show to exceptional standards with their quips, gags and slapstick comedy.

While at times the humour between Barrowman and Janette – who is playing Jimmy Krankie – is near the knuckle, it never fails to provoke howling laughter, whether that be through genuine entertainment or a tinge of discomfort.

This year’s show has faced criticism for its below-the-belt humour, homosexual joke overkill and strange innuendoes that don’t translate well between Dick and Jimmy.

With Dick’s comments about ‘ending up in the papers’ after a bedroom scene with Dick bouncing Jimmy (Janette Tough) on his lap while under the covers, it’s not hard to see why some might feel uncomfortable.

In fact, the real stars of the show are the dancers who perform chart-topping numbers including songs by Jess Glynne, with a unique panto twist.

It seems that the random scene with Barrowman singing with a backdrop of dance troupes glue together a string of disconnected scenes at times, before a rushed conclusion takes place where King Rat (Phil Corbitt) is defeated.

Without doubt the most impressive parts of the show are the 3D effects, created my Qdos Entertainment. They’re a huge surprise and truly jaw dropping – no doubt the highlight of the show.

Near the end, in a surprise, and again random, nod to Madonna, Janette Tough dancing scantily-clad in a tribute routine of the 80s pop diva, wearing an eye-wateringly high-legged leotard and huge blonde ponytail.

Dick Whittington is without a doubt a fun-filled, yet slightly surreal, celebration of the great British tradition with a modern twist.

This show guarantees an unforgettable experience, barrels of laughter and plenty of sparkle.

Dick Whittington runs at Opera House, Manchester, until Sunday, January 7.

Close