Synopsis: 

Our journey begins with a famous gentleman called Richard Whittington, a true and remarkable business man of his time. There are many interesting facts about him and many variations of the stories which flourished when a play was
produced in 1606. The story continued to grow in the 17th and 18th centuries and appeared in many children's books. In the 19th century, the story became the subject for pantomimes and other characters were added. Even now, Dick Whittington and the cat that made his fortune are familiar to people who have
never heard of the 'real' Richard Whittington.

Our story begins when Dick Whittington, a poor boy from Gloucestershire, believed that the streets of London were paved with gold. He set about walking to London to seek his fortune. He found work in the house of a merchant Fitzwarren, and fell in love with Fitzwarren's daughter, Alice. Dick had a cat called Tommy who helped catch the mice in the attic where .they slept.

An envoy from the Magical Islands arrives to trade with Fitzwarren. Unbeknown to Alice her father was broke and this was his last chance to make some money. If he failed, his current debt to Mr Slyful would invoke a clause that promised
him Alice's hand in marriage.

Fitzwarren convinces Dick to set sail with the last of his merchandise and most of his household staff as crew. Despite the efforts of the Captain they are shipwrecked in a storm whilst landing on the Magical Islands, losing their precious cargo. Fortunately they all survive and are presented to the King and Queen but are shocked to learn that the island is over run by scavenging rats desperate for food, placing them in grave danger..

Now their adventure truly begins. How will they all escape and survive. Will Dick ever get home to marry Alice or will Mr Slyful win her yet?

PLAYWRIGHT:   June Colledge (Club Member). Adapted from her mother's script

(Marjorie Ristorie),

Photographs courtesy of