Writer: Anne Odeke
Director: John Young
The festive period has arrived at Storyhouse, Chester, and with it comes the venue’s annual Christmas twist on a classic fairytale. This year’s offering is the perfect family show: colourful, warm and a vibrant start to the season.
Guiding us through it all is Fairy Lavender, played by Emmy Stonelake, who, true to her name, is positively violaceous and full of spirit. Stonelake carries much of the comedy, thriving on audience interaction and quick improvisation. She introduces Belle (Katarina Zofia), daughter of the Fromage Village Mayor, who brings grace, charm and a lovely voice to the role.
Belle’s best friend Amélie, played by Caitlin Drake, quickly becomes a standout. Drake’s vocals soar, and her character, shy on the surface but brave when needed, makes a strong impression. When there is a fallout with the village and Belle travels to the Beast’s castle, not heard from for days, Amélie sets out with would-be Prince Charming Pierre (Pranav Viswanathan) and Belle’s father to find her.
Tom Richardson returns in a delightful double role as Mayor Marcel Bernard — Belle’s awkward, nervous father — and Pascal, the human-turned-clock living with the Beast. The contrast between the two characters is sharp, yet Richardson switches between them with ease, moving from Marcel’s anxious fussing to Pascal’s exuberance. While Marcel searches for his daughter, Pascal is busy dancing on tables with Belle and the ever-glowing candlestick Grégoire (Tom Lloyd).
With only three days left of his century-long curse, Daniel Bowskill appears as the Beast, Henri, desperate for a final chance at breaking the spell through true love. His meeting with Belle provides hope and, following the original tale, it is their chemistry and romance that ties the show together. Bowskill’s voice is as powerful as you would expect from such a creature, and his portrayal captures the brokenness beneath the Beast’s fearsome exterior. His scenes with Zofia are a pleasure to watch.
Though there were some microphone issues during musical numbers, certain characters rose above the noise and added a sprinkling of magic. Miriam O’Brien’s Nightshade is one of them, delightfully wicked, full of panto energy and a key driver of the show’s mischief and fun.
While some moments in the acting felt a little unpolished, the cast’s energy and clear enjoyment of the material made the production easy to root for. It remains a great choice for families and younger audiences looking for a fun, lively Christmas outing. The show also offers strong accessibility, with captioned performances throughout the run, plus dedicated Audio Described, Relaxed and BSL-interpreted dates.
Runs until 4 January 2026
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