Beauty and the Beast has arrived at Parr Hall, where it will remain on stage until Sunday, January 11. The pantomime brings a colourful production to the town centre venue, combining pop music, well-known television personalities and the traditional humour audiences expect.
The production opened on Saturday, bringing a lively pantomime to the town centre venue, featuring pop songs, familiar television faces and all the traditional elements audiences expect.
Parr Hall favourite Daniel Dean returns once again as Pee Wee Potts, leading a cast that includes former X Factor contestant Jake Quickenden and The Chase star Anne Hegerty.
Having attended the performance, it was clear from the outset that audience participation plays a big part in the show. Dean’s interaction with the crowd is constant and natural, keeping both children and adults engaged throughout the show.
Culture Warrington produces this year’s pantomime in association with Tony Peers Ltd, and the production also acts as a tribute to Tony Peers, who sadly died in July after being behind Parr Hall pantomimes for the past 15 years. There is a real sense that the cast are keen to deliver something special in his memory.
Mervyn Francis appears as Dame Polly Potts and brings a wealth of experience to the role, having performed in more than 50 pantomimes. Watching from the audience, his jokes landed well across the age range, with plenty for younger theatre-goers while still keeping adults entertained.
In the leading roles, Charlotte Buxton stars as Belle, with Matt McInnes playing both the Beast and the Prince. Buxton’s strong vocal performance stood out, particularly during a Celine Dion number performed alongside a farcical scene involving the 
Potts family. The developing relationship between Belle and the Beast provided the emotional centre of the story.
Jake Quickenden proved to be a highlight on the night, clearly enjoying his role as the villain. His confident delivery, cheeky humour and direct engagement with the audience drew plenty of reaction from the crowd and helped lift several scenes.
There was also plenty to enjoy visually, with energetic performances from the young dancers from Felicia Burns, who impressed with their enthusiasm and commitment on stage.
From cries of “he’s behind you” to a donkey, water guns, custard pies and slapstick moments, the production includes all the familiar pantomime ingredients, combined with pop songs that are instantly recognisable.
Overall, Beauty and the Beast offers a confident and entertaining production, driven by strong audience interaction, familiar pantomime comedy and performances that clearly connect with the crowd. It is a show that plays to Parr Hall’s strengths and delivers exactly what many local families will be looking for.
Tickets for Beauty and the Beast are available to buy from the Parr Hall box office and online here: https://parrhall.culturewarrington.org/whats-on/beauty-and-the-beast/
