After last year’s sensational Christmas festive hit Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, pantomime returns to Fairfield Halls with a ROAR – and one cast member leading the charge is none other than the unstoppable Jamie Steen, making a triumphant return to the Croydon stage to star in Beauty and the Beast – a glittering family extravaganza running from Friday 12 December 2025 to Sunday 4 January 2026.

Fairfield Halls has unveiled its 2025 pantomime - a spectacular new production of Beauty and the Beast - and it’s already lined up to be the must-see Croydon event of the festive season – ticket sales are already breaking records!

Rising TV star and EastEnders favourite, Ellie Dadd, will be stepping into the iconic role of Belle. With a magnetic stage presence, Ellie brings a fresh take to the beloved fairy tale heroine – fearless, funny, and full of heart that promises to enchant audiences young and old. With a list of high-profile credits to her name, she is the perfect leading lady to bring this timeless tale to life.

Now, joining Ellie will be ‘pantomime legend’, Jamie Steen, who returns to Fairfield Halls following a triumphant performance in last year’s smash-hit production. With over 30 years of panto experience, Jamie has become a beloved fixture in UK theatre, performing alongside icons like Su Pollard, Rachel Stevens, and Camilla Dallerup. Jamie is known nationwide for his razor-sharp comedy, infectious energy and crowd-pleasing performances that have made him a favourite with families up and down the country.

Jamie Steen said:
“Coming back to Fairfield Halls feels like coming home. The audience last year was phenomenal – the atmosphere, the energy – it was something special, and I can’t wait. This year’s production is going to be even bigger. I’ve seen what’s planned behind the scenes, and I can honestly say it’s one of the most exciting pantos I’ve ever been a part of.”

This year, Jamie brings his larger-than-life alter ego Polly La Plonk to the stage. Expect outrageous outfits, traditional festive mischief, and laugh-out-loud moments for audiences of all ages.

Back by huge public demand is Fairfield Halls’ very own ‘King of Christmas’ Charlie Guest as the side-splitting Louis La Plonk, marking his third consecutive year lighting up the stage. Known for his infectious energy and comic timing, Charlie promises another show-stealing turn that audiences won’t forget.

This year’s show is written by Jon Monie, one of the UK’s most celebrated pantomime writers, whose award-winning scripts have delighted audiences across the country. Direction and choreography come courtesy of the dynamic duo Sarah Redmond and Anthony Whiteman, whose previous hits include Aladdin, Peter Pan, and last year’s Snow White, which earned national acclaim.

Martin Dodd, Producer at UK Productions, said:
“This cast is exceptional. Ellie has a real star quality that lights up the stage, and having Jamie back is a huge win for us and Croydon audiences – he’s a true panto pro. The entire company is packed with talent, and they’re supported by an incredible backstage team. The level of detail, creativity and quality being poured into this production is extraordinary. The sets, the lighting, the choreography, the music – everything is being elevated. It’s going to be unforgettable.”

The creative team behind this year’s show are pulling out all the stops to deliver a West End-worthy experience for audiences in Croydon. From newly designed lavish sets and show-stopping costumes to beautifully crafted lighting and spectacular special effects, this Beauty and the Beastis set to be the most visually striking pantomime Fairfield Halls has ever staged.

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

Steve Turner, Director of Venues at BH Live, said:

“We can’t wait to welcome Jamie back to Fairfield Halls! Panto is an unforgettable festive experience for visitors of all ages, and a highlight in our theatre’s calendar. Our pantomime producer, UK Productions, has secured another fantastic cast for this year’s festive spectacular. We can’t wait to welcome audiences back to Fairfield.”

UK Productions and Fairfield Halls made national headlines this year when actress Mia Overfield won Best Lead in a Pantomime at the 2025 UK Pantomime Awards – a first for the venue and a proud moment for Croydon. The buzz is back, and expectations are sky-high.

This is pantomime as it should be: bold, brilliant, bursting with fun, and filled with festive heart. A magical story told with stunning visuals, a talented cast, and all the traditional panto trimmings – from outrageous costumes and slapstick laughs to enchanting romance and classic audience participation – Croydon we are giving you it ALL!

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-BOOK.

You're not going to want to miss this Christmas treat – it's a magical experience for all ages, and it's got to be number one on Santa’s list this year.

• Concessions for under 16s on selected performances
• Accessible relaxed performance on Friday 2 January 2026 – open to all
• Dedicated school performances – free ice cream for school groups of 20+
• Concessions on group bookings 10+, 20+ and 30+ people
• More exciting casting announcements coming soon!

Tickets are selling fast at fairfield.co.uk.

Group and school bookings (including limited Pupil Premium subsidies) are available. Email groupsales@bhlive.org.uk for more information.

Follow us for news, behind-the-scenes exclusives and cast reveals:

Facebook – @fairfieldcroydon
Instagram – @croydonfairfield