A spellbinding Christmas treat awaits - Ellie Dadd dazzles as Beauty in 'Beauty and the Beast' this festive season
News 7 May 2025
News Story
This Christmas, experience the magic, the music, and the must-see theatrical event of the season.
From Friday, December 12, 2025, to Sunday, January 4, 2026, Fairfield Halls transforms into a world of wonder. The much-loved fairy tale Beauty and the Beast is reimagined as a jaw-dropping, laugh-out-loud spectacular that promises unforgettable festive fun for the whole family.
This is pantomime at its absolute finest – a sumptuous, high-quality production with breathtaking staging, dazzling costumes, and sensational performances that will delight audiences of all ages. With tickets starting at just £15, this is your perfect Christmas treat – but book early to secure the very best seats before they vanish!
EastEnders favourite Ellie Dadd (Amy Mitchell) leads the all-star cast, stepping into the glittering spotlight as the brave and big-hearted Belle. A seasoned stage performer with West End credits including Matilda the Musical, Ellie is ready to charm Croydon with a performance that promises grace, humour, and warmth.
Ellie 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.”
Managing Director and Producer Martin Dodd of UK Productions said:
“We are delighted to be returning to Fairfield Halls and even more to bring one of our favourite productions for the Christmas Season. The show is filled with comedy, show-stopping tunes, magic, and an award-winning script by Jon Monie. It’s a fantastic show for young and old, and it's sure to make your Christmas complete, particularly with the wonderful Ellie Dadd taking on the lead role of Belle.”
Penned by the multi-award-winning Jon Monie, this reimagined production blends laugh-out-loud comedy with heart, energy and a modern twist. The show features a host of larger-than-life characters - from the mischievous Louis to the ever-glamorous Polly La Plonk - set against a backdrop of stunning stage design, vibrant costumes and toe-tapping musical numbers.
The production is directed by panto favourite Sarah Redmond (Peter Pan, Aladdin) and choreographed by West End’s Anthony Whiteman. Together with a top-tier creative team and a cast bursting with talent, they deliver a show packed with sparkle, warmth and theatrical magic.
Highlights include:
- An accessible, relaxed performance on Friday 2 January 2026
- School performances with free ice cream for groups of 30+
- Discounts available for group bookings (10+, 20+, 30+)
- Subsidised tickets for schools with pupil premium
- Concessions for under-16s on selected performances
- More exciting cast announcements coming soon
Last year’s pantomime at Fairfield Halls saw Mia Overfield scoop Best Lead in a Pantomime at the prestigious UK Pantomime Awards, setting a high bar that this year’s ensemble is primed to meet - and exceed!
Fairfield Halls, operated by charity and social enterprise BH Live, is also proud to continue its community outreach, offering pantomime tickets for children from low-income families thanks to the generosity of previous audiences.
Steve Turner, Director of Venues at BH Live, said:
“Pantomime is often a child’s first experience of live theatre. We’re proud to be making that experience accessible to even more young people this year and encourage people to book early to get the best seats in the house!”
Backed by the theatrical excellence of UK Productions - known nationwide for their flawless staging, top-tier creative vision, and crowd-pleasing storytelling - Beauty and the Beast at Fairfield Halls is a masterclass in festive entertainment. Every scene is meticulously crafted, every moment designed to dazzle. This is more than a pantomime. It’s a full-scale, feel-good theatrical event that promises to leave audiences spellbound.
Tickets are on sale now. Don’t miss the magic - book today and make Beauty and the Beast your family’s Christmas tradition.