Dick Whittington was chosen as the pantomime for 2008 with performances on the 25th, 26th January and the 1st, 2nd, 8th and 9th of February 2008.

This was the choice for the St Nicholas Players way back in 1965 when the production was led by the late Gordon Bewley and choreographed by Jean Goodwin. Jean now runs an artists studio in the village of Alstonfield in the White Peak.

Our vicar, Brian Coleman, who seemed to revel in this sinister role, played King Rat!!

Derby Evening Telegraph on Saturday January 23rd 1965 headlined the report of the pantomime – “ Amateur panto with a Professional Air” This headline was considered at the time to be highly complimentary, considering this was only the second show performed by St Nicholas Players.

The following link will provide you with press clippings from the 1965 production and a scanned copy of the original programme, which cost 3 d in ‘old money’!! That’s 1.5 pence in ‘new money’!! Extortionate eh!

Following record audiences at Jack and The Beanstalk   the group donated a total of £900 to worthy causes- St Johns Ambulance Service, Children First, St Nicholas Church and Project Uganda.

Colleen Pratt and Mary Geraghty eloquently penned the production of Dick Whittington. The show was directed by Tim Pratt, the producer and choreographer was Lisa Turner, the musical director was Phil Wensley- a formidable team here.

Regards Phil Mason

St Nicholas Players President