News Story
This weekend, the festive season officially got underway at Fairfield Halls as Beauty and the Beast, the venue's annual pantomime, burst onto the stage to delight audiences.
The opening performances drew packed houses and rave reactions, with families enjoying dazzling costumes, hilarious comedy, and plenty of traditional panto fun. From the first “He’s behind you!” to the final curtain call, the theatre was filled with laughter, music, and festive cheer.
Ellie Dadd (EastEnders, BBC) dazzled as leading lady Belle, while comedy favourites Jamie Steen and Charlie Guest brought the house down with plucky jokes and traditional panto mischief as Polly La Plonk and Louis La Plonk. West-End star Sorelle Marsh sparkled as Fairy Bon Bon, Will Haswell charmed as Hugo Pompidou, and Samuel John Taylor swept audiences off their feet as the dashing prince.
Surprising special effects, lots of effective comedy and powerhouse vocals
Written by acclaimed pantomime master Jon Monie and produced by panto powerhouse UK Productions, this year’s production of Beauty and the Beast at Fairfield Halls brings this much-loved classic to life.
Ellie Dadd (EastEnders, BBC), who plays Belle in this year’s pantomime, shared;
“Kicking off the panto season at Fairfield Halls has been an absolute delight! The laughter, the energy, and the warmth from our audiences have made these first performances truly special. It’s a privilege to share the stage with such a talented cast, supported by an incredible backstage team who bring every moment of magic to life.”
Established in 1995, UK Productions Ltd has delivered more than 200 musical and drama productions across the UK and internationally, with credits spanning the West End and Broadway.
Martin Dodd, Producer for UK Productions, said:
“The response to Beauty and the Beast this opening weekend has been phenomenal. The cast light up that stage, bringing such energy, humour and heart that the magic in the auditorium is undeniable. We’re incredibly proud of this production, and audiences are already snapping up tickets. If you’re planning a festive trip to the theatre, make sure Beauty and the Beast is at the top of your list — it’s proving to be a real Christmas standout.”
Together, the cast of Beauty and the Beast bring fresh magic, laughter and warmth, a 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.
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 run until Sunday 4 January 2026
- Captioned performance on Monday 22 December 2025 – open to everyone
- 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.
Follow us for news, behind-the-scenes exclusives and cast reveals:
Facebook – @fairfieldcroydon
Instagram – @croydonfairfield
For more information about Fairfield Halls, visit fairfield.co.uk.
