Stephen Mulhern to Star in DICK WHITTINGTON Pantomime at Marlowe Theatre

TOP television presenter Stephen Mulhern is the star of Dick Whittington, this year's Marlowe Theatre pantomime.

Dick Whittington will also star Canterbury favourites Ben Roddy (Dolly the Cook) and Lloyd Hollett (Captain Crabstick).

Stephen, who will play Idle Jack, is currently on our screens every Saturday evening as the host of Ant vs Dec on ITV's number one entertainment show, Saturday Night Takeaway. His other shows include Catchphrase, Big Star's Little Star and Britain's Got More Talent, all of which return to the screen this year, and he continues as co-presenter of Heart FM's Sunday morning show (with Emma Willis).

As well as TV, Stephen is an experienced all-round entertainer having performed his own magic and one-man variety shows up and down the country for the past 12 years. He also has a Bafta under his belt. Stephen's unique style of comedy and presentation have made him one of the best loved presenters in the country. He has performed across the world for a host of famous people, including the Queen (he's also had lunch with HRH but doesn't like to brag!).

Stephen appeared at the old Marlowe twice, and starred (with John Partridge) in the first pantomime in the new theatre, Cinderella (2011/12).

He said: "I am over the moon to be returning to Canterbury this Christmas. The Marlowe is a stunning theatre and Evolution Productions, who I love working with, produce some of the best pantomimes in the country. I can't wait to be working alongside [producer] Paul Hendy again and my good friends Ben and Lloyd. We aim to make Dick Whittington the best pantomime Kent has ever seen!"

Paul is delighted Stephen is returning to The Marlowe Theatre: "He is one of the biggest stars on British television and we are absolutely thrilled that he has agreed to come back to The Marlowe to appear in our spectacular, family pantomime, Dick Whittington," he said.

"In my opinion, Stephen is one of the best pantomime performers in the country and I know the people of Kent are going to love him in this show. Tickets are selling incredibly well (with some shows already sold out) so I strongly urge people to book early for the best seats."

Dick Whittington is at The Marlowe Theatre from Friday 25 November 2016 to Sunday 8 January 2017. For times, prices and to book tickets, call the Box Office on 01227 787787 or go to marlowetheatre.com. There will be a Relaxed Performance of the show, and it will be audio described, captioned and signed; full details are on the website.

Dick Whittington is sponsored by Lipscomb Volvo and Mission Training.