For more than five years, Fairfield Halls has partnered with UK Productions Ltd – the panto powerhouses behind some of the nation’s most dazzling theatrical spectacles – to stage Croydon’s beloved annual festive pantomime.

Established in 1995, UK Productions Ltd has delivered over 200 musical and drama productions across the UK and internationally, with credits spanning the West End and Broadway. This festive season alone, the company will stage 11 pantomimes in theatres across the country, including this year’s magical Fairfield Halls production of Beauty and the Beast.

Behind every mesmerising backdrop and spectacular set lies a team of skilled carpenters, electricians, and artists. One of the men at the creative helm is Jon Harris, Head of Scenic Presentation at UK Productions.

For over a decade, Jon has brought iconic pantomime scenes to life – from Widow Twankey’s bustling launderette in Aladdin to Jack’s cosy cottage in Jack and the Beanstalk. We caught up with him to discover what life is really like behind the scenes.

What’s a typical day like for you? What do you do? What are your responsibilities?

“Most days I’m in the Scenic Workshop, designing and creating our “working drawings”. I collaborate with Set Electricians to develop the integration of the electrics, and with the Scenic Artists to establish the final look of our designs. We usually have multiple projects running at once, so I’m often juggling the different set pieces through the various stages of construction. As Head of Scenic Presentation, I oversee the design and creation of new and existing scenery, ensuring everything works seamlessly with other departments once it’s on stage.”

What has your career journey been? Did you know you always wanted to work in theatre/showbiz?

“I knew I wanted to work in theatre from the age of 11. I trained in Technical Theatre at Mountview Academy, specialising in scenic carpentry, before working at the Wyvern Theatre in Swindon. After a stint in the Exhibition Industry, I joined UK Productions as a Production Carpenter for touring musicals and pantos. This led to me managing the Scenery Warehouse and, in 2015, I set up UK Productions’ Scenic Workshop, where I’ve been creating ever since.”

What’s your favourite thing about your job?

“Designing and building scenery, then seeing it lit and alive on stage.”

What’s your most memorable panto moment?

“Creating Snow White’s cottage with a winch system so it magically opened – the audience loved it so much the set itself got a round of applause!”

If you could cast anyone, who would you love to cast as a principal panto character?

“Ant and Dec as a panto double act. Imagine the slosh scene – it would be absolute chaos!”

What’s your career highlight?

“Taking my children to see panto each year. I love showing them what their dad has built!”

This year, Fairfield Halls’ glittering annual production is Beauty and the Beast. Produced by panto powerhouse UK Productions Ltd and written by acclaimed pantomime master Jon Monie, this production brings the magic of the fairytale to life with spectacular sets, dazzling lighting, glorious costumes and plenty of sparkle.

This year’s production stars Ellie Dadd (EastEnders, BBC), dazzling as the enchanting Belle. 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.

Joining them is West End leading lady Sorelle Marsh, who will sprinkle star power and sparkle as the glittering Fairy Bon Bon. Will Haswell brings charm, wit and a twinkle in his eye as the loveable Hugo Pompidou, sure to keep audiences laughing with his smooth humour and playful antics. Rising star Samuel John Taylor adds romance, heart and fairytale wonder as the dashing Prince, ready to sweep audiences into a world of enchantment.

Together, they cast bring fresh magic, laughter and warmth, making Beauty and the Beast the festive spectacular Croydon residents can’t afford to miss this Christmas.

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

Tickets start from just £18.50 for selected performances. 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.

• Performances from Friday 12 December 2025 – Sunday 4 January 2026.
• 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

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.

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For more information about Fairfield Halls, visit fairfield.co.uk.