Joy Productions and Broadway Theatre have revealed the full cast and creative team for their festive pantomime Dick Whittington and his Catford Cat, running from 9 to 31 December 2025 at the Broadway Theatre, Catford.
Written by Susie McKenna and directed by Peter Rowe, this vibrant reimagining of the classic tale sees Dick and his feline companion journey from Jamaica aboard the Empire Windrush to seek their fortune in London.
Following the success of last year’s Sleeping Beauty, winner of the Off-West End Award for Best Production 2025, Joy Productions returns with a Windrush-inspired musical extravaganza packed with slapstick humour, dazzling dance routines, and popular showtunes.
Susie McKenna, who also pays tribute to her wife Sharon D Clarke’s parents in the storyline, said: “This panto is a love letter to the Windrush Generation and to everyone who has contributed to create this vibrant and multi-cultural country we live in today. I hope audiences in Lewisham and beyond will experience laughter and connection, all the while spreading the message of joy and unity at this important time of the year.”
Durone Stokes stars as Dick Whittington, joined by Justin Brett as the flamboyant Dame Sarah The Cook, Wayne Rollins as Uncle Vincent, Lisa Davina Phillip as Fairy Bowbells, Natasha Lewis as Queen Rat, Ben Fox as Alderman Fitzwarren, and newcomer Fergie Fraser as Alice Fitzwarren.
Producer Julie Clare commented: “This truly is a revolutionary take on a classic tale. Dick Whittington and his Catford Cat embodies a journey of hope and opportunity and pays homage to the enduring legacy of the Windrush community which continues to shape British culture and identity today. I hope this story will resonate deeply with audiences, breathing new relevance into this popular folk tale.”
The production features set design by Olivier Award-winner Mark Walters, costumes by Lotte Collett, sound design by Tony Gayle, lighting by Mike Robertson, and choreography by Tarik Frimpong. Musical direction and composition are by Ben Goddard-Young.
Cllr Sakina Sheikh, Cabinet Member for Culture, Communities and Sports, said: “We are super excited to partner with Joy Productions for a third year. This fresh take on Dick Whittington and his Catford Cat is a fantastic celebration of our borough. Blending a local landmark with a classic tale of courage, while also paying tribute to the Windrush generation will really resonate with our communities.”
As part of its community outreach, the production will offer over 600 £1 tickets to local groups and continue its Talent Pipeline programme, mentoring emerging theatre professionals from underrepresented backgrounds.
Listings and ticket information can be found here
