What a delight to witness a pantomime where every principal has a proper singing voice, giving this Beauty and the Beast an extra edge and making the company numbers so effective. After a laborious opening few minutes, this show comes alive and remains on high energy. There are glorious moments of traditional pantomime. The kitchen broken plates routine and the lost 50p piece are well worn, but this company brings them back to life with speed and skill.
Ian ‘H’ Watkins is perfectly cast as Potty Pierre and is so natural with the youngsters. His energetic linking role proves there is much more to him than the Steps revival. Adam McNab - Prince Gallant and the Beast - excels with his strong vocals and has a real stage presence. His transformation scene is superb. Claire Greenway shows real talent in the role of Fairy Formidable and is not a local personality just thrown in. There is not a weak link in this absorbing production.
Samantha Hughes, as Malevolent, is greeted by boos from her first entry and so it continues, which is due reward for her excellent performance. Her big solo number is one of the highlights of the show. Chris Casserly works so well as Dame Derriere and his experience is vital to this production. Steven Pinder, a quality actor, makes his mark as Jean Jacques and Zoe Nicole Adkin brings charm, glamour and so much vocal ability to the role of Beauty.
This show is the perfect length and has so much to offer. It deserves to be one of their most successful ever pantomimes at Ferneham Hall and the box-office receipts are heading that way.
Production information can change over the run of the show.
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