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Made by Lighthouse Poole

Dick Whittington (Panto)

Family Pantomime

Thu 11 Dec 2025 – Sun 4 Jan 2026

"Chris Jarvis has come up trumps with another exceptional show.
Dick Whittington is a rip-roaring success for all the family."
BOURNEMOUTH ECHO

Critics and audiences alike are raving about this year’s feline good pantomime adventure that is paved with gold!

CBeebies and pantomime legend Chris Jarvis is back, sprinkling his magic as the deliciously dazzling, Dame Dolly Doughnuts.

Bringing the West End sparkle home to Poole, Bernadette Bangura (Moulin Rouge, Hairspray), stars in the role of Fairy Bowbelles with her powerful vocals lighting up the stage.

Our very own Corben Heward-Mills, who made his professional debut at Lighthouse last year, shows off his jaw-dropping tricks and paws-itively purr-fect moves as Tommy the Cat, while Poole’s favourite villain Sarah-Louise Young returns as King Rat.

Rising star Kieran Morris takes on the title role of Dick Whittington, with Isabella Kibble as Alice Fitzwarren, the spirited object of his affections. Completing the lineup is award-winning actor Robert Rees as Alice’s formidable father, Alderman Fitzwarren.

Brimming with spectacular musical numbers, dazzling costumes, sensational sets and plenty of laugh-out-loud family comedy, get ready to be swept away on this joyfully funny take on a magical rags to riches story.

Made in Poole especially for Lighthouse audiences by the same creative team behind national Panto Award winners Aladdin (2023) and Cinderella (2022), as well as last year’s smash hit Sleeping Beauty, Dorset’s best-loved family pantomime is now seen by more than 21,000 people each year.

Book your tickets NOW, to get the best seats for another spectacular West End style pantomime that will guarantee your family a golden Christmas!

Writer, Director: Chris Jarvis
Production Designer: James Smith
Choreographer: Daniel Donaldson Todd
Musical Director: Adam Tuffre

Relaxed Performance – Friday 2 January 2026 at 6pm
Our relaxed performance is perfect for anyone who might find the usual theatre environment a little overwhelming. This includes people with sensory, communication and learning sensitivities, or anyone who would feel more at ease in a less formal theatre environment. You can expect the same West End quality production – with a few thoughtful adjustments to ensure everyone can enjoy the magic.  Click here to find out more 

School Rates Available – includes one free teacher ticket for every ten tickets booked. Call our Ticket Office team for more information.

This year’s family-friendly pantomime, Dick Whittington, is proudly supported by National Express and Raymond James Poole.

"...it’s fresh, funny and wholeheartedly down with the kids. (An) uproarious pantomime with its roots set firmly in the community."

The Stage

“A rip-roaring success for all the family, that gladdens the heart! Another exceptional show.”

Bournemouth Echo

"It looks good, sounds great and is just as pantomime should be, fun for all the family."

West End Friend

"Uplifting, affordable, and truly unmissable! Chris Jarvis is absolutely dazzling!"

What's Good To Do

"If you're thinking about booking a pantomime this Christmas, make if this one!"

All About The Play

Production photos by Jayne Jackson Photography

Steppin’ Out Academy of Performance (SOAP) is a premier performing arts academy committed to developing confidence, talent, and a lifelong passion for the arts. It provides comprehensive training across all major dance genres, including Street, Commercial, Musical Theatre, Ballet, Tap, Contemporary, Acrobatic Arts, and Modern. Based in Hamworthy, SOAP’s modern studios feature sprung floors, air conditioning, and a coffee shop. SOAP welcomes both recreational dancers and those pursuing professional careers in the performing arts. Its annual show at Lighthouse, and opportunities such as the Dance World Cup, offer valuable performance experience. Graduates consistently earn placements and scholarships at leading institutions, including Laine Theatre Arts, Wilkes Academy, Shockout, and Italia Conti. This year, the dancers for Dick Whittington are presented in partnership with Stage Door School of Dancing and their pupil, Xander. SOAP thanks Lighthouse and the Dick Whittington creative team for inviting its young dancers to participate and wish everyone a successful pantomime season.

Download our fun Dick Whittington colouring in sheets, made by students at AUB: