f Christmas in Poole isn’t complete without a trip to the pantomime, then Dick Whittington at Lighthouse Theatre more than lives up to tradition. Bursting with energy, colour and good old-fashioned panto fun, this year’s production delivers exactly what families hope for, and then some.
From the moment the curtain rises, it’s clear this is a show made with its audience firmly in mind. The story of Dick and his faithful cat is familiar, but it’s told with warmth, wit and a strong sense of local flavour that Poole audiences always appreciate. There are plenty of knowing jokes, topical references and moments that feel tailor-made for the Lighthouse crowd.
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The cast throw themselves into the spirit of pantomime with infectious enthusiasm. The comic timing is sharp, the audience participation is constant (expect plenty of booing, hissing and shouting back), and the Dame (Chris Jarvis) is an absolute standout, larger than life, gloriously silly and clearly enjoying every moment on stage. Children are kept fully engaged, while adults are treated to enough sly humour to keep things entertaining for all ages.
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Visually, the production doesn’t disappoint. Colourful costumes, bright staging and many lively musical numbers give the show a real festive sparkle. The songs are upbeat, with lots of familiar numbers, to get toes tapping, and the choreography adds to the sense of fun without ever overwhelming the storytelling.
What really makes Dick Whittington shine, though, is its sense of joy. This is a pantomime that understands its purpose: to bring people together, make them laugh, and send them home smiling. The atmosphere in the auditorium feels genuinely celebratory, with the cast feeding off the audience’s energy and vice versa.
In short, Dick Whittington at Lighthouse Poole is a rip-roaring, family-friendly success. Whether it’s your first panto or a yearly tradition, this production ticks all the boxes, humour, heart, spectacle and festive cheer, making it a thoroughly enjoyable seasonal outing.
The show runs from 12 December to 2 January 2026, get tickets here:
