It’s cold, it’s sparkly, and Christmas is almost here. And what is Christmas without a family pantomime?
This year, Victoria Theatre in Halifax brings us a joyful version of Beauty and the Beast, full of festive cheer, fairy-tale magic and plenty of laughs.
From the very start, this production shows it knows its audience. When the opening bars of the F.R.I.E.N.D.S. theme played, the audience began clapping straight away — even before the story started. It was a small but clever moment that set the tone. This was going to be fun, playful panto, and the panto season had well and truly arrived.
Directed by Robert Marsden, the show runs at the Victoria Theatre from 12 December 2025 until 4 January 2026. It includes everything you expect from a good pantomime: bright costumes, lively songs and lots of chances to clap, cheer and join in.
The story follows the well-known fairytale. A proud prince is turned into a Beast and must learn to love before the last petal falls from a magical rose. It’s a warm and funny story, and this production tells it with heart.
Sam Willison plays both the Prince and the Beast, combining strong singing with clear physical comedy. Beth Woodcock is a lovely Belle, full of warmth and spirit, and exactly how you imagine the character to be.
Andrew Pollard stands out as Dame Madeline Marzipan. Full of energy and confidence, he wins over the audience from his very first entrance.
Matthew Allen is great fun as French Frank, with a scene involving soap bubbles and water guns getting big laughs. Cathy Breeze brings humour to the role of Professor Potage, while Neil Moors plays the villain Benedict Bourbon perfectly, giving the audience plenty of reasons to boo.
Nikki Schofield’s fairy is cheerful and friendly, bringing a smile every time she appears on stage.
The full cast keeps the show moving at a lively pace. Colourful sets and clear choreography help keep the energy high throughout. The musical numbers are performed with enthusiasm, and the young performers add to the strong sense of community that pantomime does so well.
Most of all, it’s the shared experience that makes this show special. The laughter, the booing and the well-timed clapping remind you why pantomime is such an important part of Christmas.
Warm, funny and full of festive sparkle, Beauty and the Beast at the Victoria Theatre is a great family pantomime and a perfect way to celebrate the season.Get your tickets here!