Dick Whittington

This afternoon brought one of those delightful moments in the Shrieval year when you’re reminded, very simply, of the power of joy.

I was invited by Oxfordshire Freemasons to join them at the Oxford Playhouse for their annual pantomime matinee for children and families who face additional challenges – a tradition that’s now firmly established and has brought festive magic to hundreds and hundreds of children over the years, thanks entirely to the generosity and fundraising of the Freemasons across the county.

The show itself was typical Oxford Playhouse, who have been producing brilliant (and slightly different) pantomimes for many years. This year’s Dick Whittington gave the story a playful twist: Dick was, in fact, Dot; King Rat bore more than a passing resemblance to a Gallagher brother; and the soundtrack was unapologetically 1990s, following last year’s triumphant leap back to the 80s. The cast was excellent – full of young talent and infectious energy – and I have no doubt that this year’s run will be as popular as ever.

I was especially pleased to be seated with the Mayor of Thame and the Lord Mayor of Oxford. Who knew that Andy and Louise not only know all the moves to Tragedy, but can deliver them with such gusto? A truly unexpected highlight.

Wonderful too to see fellow Deputy Lieutenant Alison Derham there on DL duties.

The atmosphere in the theatre was absolutely brilliant – the kind of full-body excitement you only really get when a room full of children are having the time of their lives. Families who often carry the weight of worry – financial pressures, accessibility challenges, children who might struggle in a typical audience – could simply be together. No judgement. No sideways glances. Just a theatre full of people cheering, laughing, waving, and joining in at every opportunity, with parents and carers visibly relaxing into the fun alongside their children.

And of course, the real hero of Dick Whittington – or rather Dot Whittington – is the cat. This year’s production leaned into that in a particularly thoughtful way, with the cat helping to show the importance of diversity and inclusion in a happy ending where everyone finds their place and their value is recognised.

It’s easy sometimes to think of pantomime as light, fluffy entertainment. But sitting there, watching children roaring with laughter – and watching their parents and carers relax, properly relax – you realise it can be a quiet act of kindness too. A reminder that inclusion does not always need to be complicated. Sometimes it’s a ticket to a show, a Santa hat, a bag of sweets, and a moment where a family feels completely welcome.

I was truly chuffed to be invited, and enormously moved by the care and generosity that went into today’s performance. Huge credit to everyone who made it happen – the organisers, volunteers, performers, and the families themselves, who brought the Playhouse to life with that unmistakable panto spirit.

A brilliant afternoon, full of joy. Exactly what you want from a wet Tuesday afternoon in December.