DICK Whittington, Ledbury Amateur Dramatic Society’s pantomime (producer Andrew Hill), was an absolute treat for the delighted audiences.

Children were enthralled, so engrossed that they eagerly joined in – and there was plenty of opportunity.

Mark Llewellin (Sam Seaweed), David Stone (Idle Jack), Paul Smith (Captain Cockle) and David Lowrey (Mr. Mussel) were excellent at getting their participation. If you want to introduce your children to theatre this show could not be bettered.

There was plenty for adults to enjoy too from Bob Maynard (an excellent ‘dame’ in Sarah Suet), Margaret Phillips (Mrs. Fitzwarren), Wendy Peplow (Fairy of the Bells) and Hettie Guilding (a Queen Rat that attracted an outpouring of ‘boos’).

Of course a pantomime needs straight players to carry the story – always difficult - and here Heather Cooper, in the title roll, and Carley Dashey (Alice Fitzwarren) were superb. Elaine Graham (Tommy the Cat), whose only spoken line was ‘Miaow’, was outstanding. Her cat-like mimes, even to sprucing her whiskers and ears, endeared her to the audience.

However, it was the timing that was the highlight of this play. The whole cast, including the enthusiastic teenagers and children (of which Jenny Davis deserves special mention), have worked extremely hard and produced faultless choreography that was a pleasure to watch.

They were clearly supported by a dedicated team that ensured a colourful and seamless production. This pantomime was a joy and deservedly a sell-out. Everyone involved is to be congratulated. The panto runs until Saturday, January 24.