King’s Head Theatre has announced the first casting for this year’s pantomime Dick Whittington and His Cat, with RuPaul’s Drag Race UK favourites Victoria Scone and River Medway set to star.
The production runs from 22 November 2026 to 3 January 2027, with a press performance on 29 November, while the companion production Dick Whittington: Adults Only will run from 26 November 2026 to 2 January 2027.
Victoria Scone returns to King’s Head Theatre as Dragpus following her appearance as Dame Trott in last year’s Jack and the Beanstalk. River Medway makes her King’s Head Theatre debut as Queen Rat, with both performers appearing in the family and adults-only productions.
Writer and director Andrew Pollard also returns for a third year after previously helming Cinderella and Jack and the Beanstalk. Earlier this year he was named Best Writer at the UK Pantomime Awards.
Victoria Scone said: “She’s… back! I’m delighted to return to the King’s Head Theatre stage again this year – mainly because I left my LaDucas backstage! I simply can’t believe how lucky I am to be spending a season with Dick… Whittington! And River Medway will be there! (I think I’m contractually obligated to say that.”
“See you on stage and let’s all hope I don’t mistake a school performance for an ‘Adults Only’ show again – those poor kids.”
River Medway said: “I made my panto debut at ten years old in my hometown in Kent and have been in love ever since, continuing until I was 18. My first time ‘in drag’ was playing an Ugly Stepsister in Cinderella – completely miscast. I’ve been a villager, a prince – rude! – and a dame, but never a villain.
“I adore the tradition and the camp that is innate to panto, so I’m super excited to be part of this year’s panto at the iconic King’s Head Theatre in London – just a shame I have to work with Victoria Scone again. She’s obsessed with me!”
Pollard said: “I am delighted to be returning for the third year to write and direct the King’s Head panto. Panto at the King’s Head is a very special thing – perfect as a child’s first introduction to panto, as the venue is intimate and the children can really get up close to the action and the characters. I’m looking forward to working once again with a fantastic production and creative team to produce our little jewel of a panto.
“Dick Whittington is the perfect London panto, with action set in the heart of the city. It’s also one of the very special pantos in that it is based on historical fact – a really unique pantomime experience.
“It will, of course, be filled with funny and endearing characters, lots of comedy and music, and plenty of audience participation! Oh yes, it will!”
Alongside the production, King’s Head Theatre will revive its Golden Bells Pay It Forward scheme, helping children and families who might not otherwise be able to experience live theatre. More than 2,250 schoolchildren have attended performances through the initiative over the last two years.
Amber Massie-Blomfield and James Quaife said: “We’re absolutely delighted to be bringing pantomime back to the King’s Head Theatre for a third magical year with Dick Whittington and His Cat. Panto is one of the most joyful traditions in British theatre, bringing together laughter, music, magic, and a real sense of community. With the sensational Victoria Scone and River Medway leading the cast, audiences can expect a festive adventure packed with heart, humour, and spectacular entertainment. We can’t wait to welcome families, friends, and the local community through our doors this Christmas to share in the magic together.”
Tickets for both productions are on sale now, with prices starting from £15 and additional accessible ticket schemes available throughout the run.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
