Beauty and the Beast

All Photos: Will Green Photography

Review by Martine Silkstone

The New Wolsey Theatre in Ipswich is well-known for its annual rock ‘n’ roll panto - always fun, always entertaining and always an astonishing display of acting/musical talent. Well, I’m delighted to say that their offering for 2025 is all that and more.

Yes, they have still included all the things that make their show great - including a skilful cast who act, sing and play instruments - but this year it’s truly the best I’ve seen. It feels lighter somehow; what was a bit ‘full-on’ in previous years (but enormous fun, don’t get me wrong) has pulled back very slightly, and that extra space allows the audience to follow the narrative more easily, catch all the brilliant jokes along the way and generally ride the wave of joy with more ease.

Now, dedicated fans don’t panic - it’s still full of energy and all your favourites are still there in abundance: great songs, a fabulously naughty dame, cheeky audience interactions and musicians rocking out on stage at all times. Indeed, it is everything you have ever loved about the show, just with the edges gently softened.

Or perhaps that’s the Haribo talking. Either way, I thoroughly enjoyed it.

For those who think they know the story of Beauty and the Beast, you might want to brace yourselves. For here, the classic tale has been given the full panto treatment by writer Vikki Stone, and beautifully transformed to include oodles of popular songs (look out for a superb version of Creep by Radiohead), a suitably incontinent Pigeon sidekick (no really) and a somewhat unconventional ending (no spoilers here though).

Nis Raza Hamilton is our feisty Belle, eager to make her own way in the world and exploring the idea of a history podcast with her feathered friend (Eloise Richardson). Together they investigate an old doorway which, it turns out, leads to the enchanted castle of the Beast (Neil Urquhart - what a voice!)

Many years ago, the former Prince and his servants were cursed by the foxy-but-evil Snarlina, after they turned her away when she popped in to use the loo. Harsh but fair? We’ve all been there! And Signe Larsson gives a wonderfully wicked performance as our baddie for the night, not only showing off her great vocals but also some impressive moves! Being bad clearly feels so good - bravo.

Anyhow…

Having stumbled into the castle grounds, Belle becomes the Beast’s prisoner. Now her mum, Mrs Ringer (a top notch dame performance by Max Gallagher), must assemble an angry mob and rush to her rescue.

(At this point, there is a Flashdance number that I simply cannot unsee - but I digress…)

Meanwhile, in the castle, our two protagonists find they actually have much in common. But will they fall in love? Will it happen in time to break the curse? You’ll just have to book to find out.

And I must also mention the rest of the cast - Myles Miller, who has perfect comic timing as Jacques Le Plop, and ensemble members Ceri-Ann Townsend, Christian Tyler-Wood and Leo Elso, all of whom add colour and sparkle, not to mention musical ability.

Throw in great lighting design, costumes and staging and you have everything you need for a fun family show.

In the programme (always love a printed programme), the show’s Director Jake Smith says he wants audiences to feel uplifted; to share a story together in the heart of the community, surrounded by music, laughter and love.

Well, Jake, if that’s the case then you nailed it. Job done.

Beauty and the Beast is at New Wolsey Theatre in Ipswich until 17 January 2026.

FOR SHOW DETAILS AND BOOKING LINK, CLICK HERE