The countdown is officially on… with fewer than 100 sleeps until the curtain rises, Croydon is set to be swept away by a festive spectacular like no other – Beauty and the Beast at Fairfield Halls!

This year, UK Productions Ltd. are pulling out all the stops to deliver what promises to be the most dazzling pantomime Fairfield Halls has ever seen. With West End-calibre production values, jaw-dropping choreography, glittering costumes, and spectacular special effects, Beauty and the Beast will transform Croydon into a world of magic and wonder this Christmas.

To kick off the celebrations in true showbiz style, three of the pantomime’s brightest stars – Ellie Dadd (EastEnders), the outrageously funny Charlie Guest, and Croydon’s very own panto favourite Jamie Steen – lit up Fairfield Halls with a dazzling festive photocall that had crowds buzzing. Fans turned out in force, with excitement spilling onto the streets as the trio’s arrival sent the atmosphere sky-high.

And the magic didn’t end there. The launch day itself was nothing short of spectacular, as cast members brought Croydon town centre to a complete standstill. It was a moment of pure pantomime magic – unforgettable, unmissable, and a taste of the festive fever that’s already sweeping the community. With such a glittering start, the countdown to opening night has never felt more electric.

The message is clear: this is the show everyone will be talking about – and you don’t want to miss it.

With lavishly designed new sets, lighting to rival the West End, and a creative team at the very top of their game, this isn’t just a pantomime – it’s a theatrical event of epic proportions. Schools’ performances are already close to selling out, and tickets for daytime, matinee, and evening shows are disappearing fast. Families are urged to book now to guarantee the best seats in the house for what is shaping up to be the Christmas show of the year.

UK Productions, Producer Martin Dodd said:

“This is pantomime on a scale Croydon has never seen before. Beauty and the Beast is going to be truly spectacular – breathtaking sets, stunning costumes, sensational choreography, and of course a phenomenal cast. We’re talking West End quality right here at Fairfield Halls. This isn’t just a panto – it’s a Christmas event, a magical celebration for the whole family. If you see one show this festive season, make it this one.”

EastEnders star Ellie Dadd is set to dazzle as Belle, calling the role “every girl’s dream” and sharing how magical it feels to bring families together with laughter so close to home. She’s joined by Croydon’s very own ‘King of Christmas’ Charlie Guest, back for a third triumphant year as Louis La Plonk, bringing his trademark energy, quick wit, and show-stealing comedy to the stage once again.

Rounding out the trio is panto powerhouse Jamie Steen, returning as the outrageous Polly La Plonk, whose larger-than-life costumes and mischievous humour guarantee laughs for all ages.

Ellie Dadd said:

“Being able to play a princess is every girl’s dream, and I can’t wait to bring Belle to life. I loved every second of doing panto last year – it’s a joy seeing families light up with laughter. This production feels extra special, and being so close to home makes it even more magical.”

Backed by the genius of award-winning writer Jon Monie, direction from Sarah Redmond, and choreography from Anthony Whiteman (the powerhouse duo behind previous hits Aladdin, Peter Pan and Snow White), this production is set to sparkle brighter than ever.

Fairfield Halls is operated by registered charity and social enterprise BH Live in partnership with Croydon Council.

Nicola Coney, Entertainment and Events Manager at BH Live, said:

“We’re thrilled to welcome this dazzling cast and production team back to Fairfield Halls. Pantomime is such a treasured tradition for our audiences. This year’s show promises to be another joyful, high-energy celebration of theatre and family fun. We’re particularly proud to continue offering relaxed performances and concessions to ensure the magic of live performance reaches as many people as possible.”

Tickets are already selling fast, and with a cast like this, demand will only continue to rise.

If you’re looking for the ultimate family treat this Christmas – one packed with joy, spectacle and theatrical magic – Beauty and the Beast at Fairfield Halls is a must-see.

• Accessible relaxed performance on Friday 2 January 2026 – open to everyone and great for those who prefer a gentler panto experience.
• Group rates available (10+, 20+, 30+).
• Concessions for under-16s on selected performances