Audiences have been swept off their feet by this year’s pantomime – Beauty and the Beast – at Storyhouse in Chester, according to theatre bosses.
They said the feel-good family show has captivated theatregoers of all ages during its opening weekend, and is set to go on enthralling families throughout the festive season.
The production where everyone is invited to “be our guest” runs at until Sunday 4th January 2026.
It’s a colourful and exuberant seasonal production, promising a heartwarming story and unforgettable moments.
There are also sing-along moments, with pop favourites including Pink Pony Club, I Wanna Dance with Somebody, I Put a Spell On You and the K-Pop hit Golden.
Each performance is captioned, with additional audio-described, British Sign Language-interpreted and relaxed performances throughout the run to ensure everyone can enjoy the magic.
“What a wonderful opening weekend, we couldn’t have asked for a better start to Christmas 2025,” said Storyhouse creative director Suzie Henderson.
“Director John Young and our fabulous cast and creative team have brought to life a truly enchanting piece of Christmas Magic.
“[Playwright] Anne Odeke’s Beauty and the Beast has all the ingredients to dazzle theatregoers of all ages, and there’s a real sense of excitement and joy both in the auditorium and throughout the whole Storyhouse.”
The adaptation is written by Anne Odeke and directed by John Young – both known for their work on Grosvenor Park Open Air Theatre productions in the city.
Katarina Zofia plays Belle and Daniel Bowskill appears as the Beast, Henri, while back by popular demand are Tom Richardson (Marcel/Pascal) and Caitlin Drake (Amélie).
They are joined by Poppy Afolabi (René/understudy), Tom Lloyd (Grégoire/the Judge), Miriam O’Brien (Nightshade), Tom Pigram (Faby/understudy), Emmy Stonelake (Lavender), Panav Viswanathan as Pierre and House of Dance.
Beauty and the Beast’s musical director is Rebecca Applin while choreography comes from Christopher Tendai.
Chloe Vickers is assistant choreographer, and Kaitlin Howard is fight and intimacy director.
The designer is Amy Jane-Cook, with lighting design by Aaron Dootson and sound design by Kieran Lucas.
Beauty and the Beast
Storyhouse Chester
Friday 5th December 2025 – Sunday 4th January 2026
Tickets from £15
01244 409 113
Follow So Cheshire on Facebook, Threads and Instagram, or email cheshire@so-counties.co.uk with story suggestions and to enquire about advertising opportunities.
