All the fun of the fur in Hackney

HACKNEY Empire’s pantomimes are a capital favourite, and writer/director Susie McKenna excels herself with a hugely enjoyable outing set in Windrush-era London.

She is helped by a vibrant cast led by panto debutant Tarinn Callender as Dick, and Clive Rowe (right) — one of our greatest Dames — as Sarah the Cook in his 13th Hackney panto appearance.

For such a traditional art form, McKenna’s modern(ish) redux works well, as she weaves old and new: songsheet, stage business and groaning puns are present, but so too is a message about inclusion, and sharp political references. Annette McLaughlin (Queen Rat, with a sidekick called Boris) and Tony Whittle as Alderman Fitzwarren provide strong comedy, while the songs (directed by Mark Dickman) are a treat.