101 Dalmatians is an absolute Disney classic and one, I don’t mind admitting, which shot fear into me as a child.

Cruella De Vil and her wicked ways sent a chill down my young spine when she popped up on my screen as a youngster.

She is truly one of life’s most easily hated villains – whether that’s multiple Emmy and Golden Globe winner Glenn Close’s portrayal (which is the one I’m referring to), voice actress Betty Lou Gerson, who was responsible for the iconic Disney role, or Emma Stone’s performance in the 2021 Cruella.

However, it was Faye Tozer’s performance at The Marlowe in Canterbury last night which stole the show (and the puppies!)

Her portrayal of the cruel, animal skin-obsessed, and Dalmatian-mad Cruella De Vil brought back the horrid memories of the wickedly evil and menacingly mad woman I remembered all those years ago.

It was no surprise Faye, who shot to stardom with Steps, had a mega voice but it was her acting skills which surprised me. Great comedic timing, witty retorts and quick insults to her nephews Jasper and Casper (Charles Brunton and Danny Hendrix) which left the crowds in stitches.

Now, if you may have naively thought there would be real dogs involved (like me) you will be disappointed. But that disappointment of seeing several dog-sized puppets, lead by a crew of an incredibly skilled ensemble, will vanish after a few minutes.

The clever mechanics of the cast singing while moving their dogs around, with almost identical movements you’d see from a proper dog, make you appreciate the detail which has been put into the show.

That, matched with the eye-catching set, atmospheric lighting – which did well to capture Cruella’s sinister mood and wicked ways – meant for an incredible show which would be perfect for a family event.

The crowd was littered with spots, but not the gross type you try to avoid on your skin. Dozens of children adopted some Dalmatian ears or onesies as they sat with their friends and parents and enjoyed the funny, cheery and sometimes emotional two hour long show.

The musical is making its way around the UK and Ireland this summer, but is currently stopping off in Kent, where it will remain until Saturday, with the Steps star putting her vocal talents to good use for some sensational singing which left the crowd barking mad.

The show saw fashionista Cruella de Vil plot to swipe all the Dalmatian puppies in town to create her fabulous new fur coat, meaning trouble ahead for Pongo and Perdi and their litter of adorable, tail-wagging young pups.

Dodie Smith’s classic canine caper is brought to life on stage with spectacular puppetry, show-stopping choreography, witty songs, and irresistible puppies. The musical is written by Douglas Hodge and Johnny McKnight, from a stage adaptation by Zinnie Harris.

101 Dalmatians will be at the Marlowe Theatre in Canterbury until Saturday (July 20). You can book tickets here.

You can also book tickets by calling 01227 787787.