The Caledon Townhall Players are presenting "Dick Whittington" a classic English pantomime. One sure sign Christmas is almost here is the Caledon Townhall Players Christmas show.

This year the Players are presenting "Dick Whittington" a classic English pantomime with all the traditional fun and mayhem, which audiences have come to expect from the Christmas shows.

Many will remember the magic of "King Arthur" and last year's merry adventure, "Treasure Island". The offering this year is in the same tradition of fun, fantasy and adventure.

The story centres on young Dick Whittington, who journeys to London to seek his fortune. He is accompanied along the way by his clever cat 'Tiddles', his dull-witted but loyal friend 'Barrow Boy Billy' and his 'man-hunting' Mum, 'Dame Sarah". They encounter villainous pirates led by 'Long John Tin Foil' (Fred Bilton) and a rat army led by the evil 'King Rat' (Andrew Miranda). They all

embark in a pirate ship on a quest for lost treasure. Battles ensue and there is much delightful confusion until Dick finally emerges triumphant and returns to become Lord Mayor of London and wed the girl of his dreams.

In keeping with pantomime tradition, where the 'principle boy' is always played by a girl, the lovely Pam Cooper leads this very

strong cast as 'Dick' and by all accounts, thoroughly enjoys the swash-buckling sword fights. Our 'Dame' is himself, something of a classic. Mike Butterworth plays 'Dame Sarah' with every gorgeous and voluptuous inch of his six foot, two frame. He is a sight to behold and his bantering with the audience is not to be missed! There's something for

everyone in the rollicking tale - action and adventure, romance, fantasy, singing and dancing choreographed by Diana Hollister.

The chorus, trained by music director Bryan Cook, should delight audiences with their varied and often whimsical selections and make them feel free to sing along. (Audience participation is encouraged.) The show, directed and

produced by long-time CTH member Kim Blacklock, opens on Friday, December 8 and runs for two weekends until Dec. 17.

In addition to the Friday and Saturday evening performances there are Saturday and Sunday matinees both weekends. Evening performances start at 7:30 and the matinees at 1:30.

Adult tickets are $10 and kids under 12 are $5 with an accompanying donation to the food bank.

Non-perishable food items (canned or dry goods) may be presented at the theatre box office. For more information or to purchase tickets by phone call 519- 927-5460. Tickets may be purchase by phone with a credit card or by cash at the box office. There is no reserved seating for this show.