Christmas 2026 | 22 November 2026 – 3 January 2027
Oh yes it is! The King’s Head Theatre in Islington has announced the full cast for its panto, Dick Whittington and His Cat. Here are five reasons to book.
1. Drag Race stars as the cat and the villain
RuPaul’s Drag Race UK favourite Victoria Scone returns as Dragpuss, after playing Dame Trott in last year’s Jack and the Beanstalk, while River Medway makes her King’s Head debut as the wicked Queen Rat.
2. A local lad in the lead
Joseph Vella, who grew up in the borough, plays Dick Whittington. His credits include Mamma Mia! on tour and From Here To Eternity. He’s joined by Patricia Wilkins (Back to the Future, Dirty Dancing) as Alice Fitzgerald, drag king Jamie Fuxx as Ding-Dong/Elvis Pawsley, and Ash Weir as Anne Semble.
3. From an award-winning panto writer
The show is written and directed by Andrew Pollard, who won Best Writer at the 2026 UK Pantomime Awards. He calls Dick Whittington a great London story, so expect plenty of local jokes alongside the classic panto fun.
4. A naughtier version for grown-ups
Leave the kids at home for Dick Whittington: Adults Only, running from 26 November to 2 January. It’s a cheekier late-night take on the story, perfect for a Christmas night out with friends.
5. Affordable tickets for everyone
Tickets start from £15, with Pay What You Can performances for both shows. Through its Golden Bells Pay It Forward scheme, the theatre also provides free tickets for local children who might not otherwise get to go, so your booking helps make panto accessible for all.
Tickets and info
Dick Whittington and His Cat
King’s Head Theatre, 116 Upper Street, Islington, London N1 1QN
Family show: 22 November 2026 – 3 January 2027 | Adults Only: 26 November 2026 – 2 January 2027
From £15
Nearest station: Angel