REVIEW | Beauty and the Beast, Belgrade Theatre
beauty and the beast
belgrade theatre, Coventry
★★★★
The highly-anticipated return of pantomime at Coventry's Belgrade Theatre is here and this show is the perfect finale for the city which has played City of Culture host this year. Although we managed to enjoy the pantomime digitally last year, it's delightful to be back in that auditorium and see the results of a valiant effort to make sure the show went on this Christmas.
Everything in this pantomime feels as though we never left nearly two years ago. Writer/Director Iain Lauchlan has ensured this show goes the extra mile to stand out and remind us why pantomimes are the perfect memories to make with our loved ones. Of course, it's not without the mayhem and fun you'd expect from Lauchlan's reputation to execute a great show!
Beauty and the Beast is one of the most popular panto titles ever, although personally, it isn't my favourite of them all. It definitely appeals to the younger audience who will be equally as captivated by this take on the familiar story and will fully immerse themselves in all of the fun this show has to offer as an added bonus. We are introduced to the village of Middle Widdle on the Piddle and the many characters that reside here. There is an old tale of a prince who has been cursed by an evil enchantress. Trapped in the exterior of a beast until he changes his selfish ways and finds true love will he ever break the spell. You probably know how the other characters play their part, right?
This production of Beauty and the Beast certainly hasn't lost its spark. Lauchlan launches into his familiar Scottish 'helloooo', filling the space of the Belgrade auditorium and Craig Hollingsworth bounces onto the stage for his 10th year in panto at this theatre, you know you are sure to have an unforgettable night. This double act hasn't lost its spark and the sweet-shop scene is one of many memorable moments of the evening. A proper belly laugh moment!
The entire superb cast really enhances the finishing result of this show. Maurice (Peter Watts) is a great addition to the Belgrade panto, returning after performing in Puss in Boots back in 2019. He is captivating in his confidence and cocky deminer, although we definitely see his funnier side and the audience adored him. Not forgetting the fact that this cast include a fantastic chorus of dancers, a beautiful performance in Belle (Ruby Eva) who has exceptional vocal ability. Of course, Beast is really quite something and Sion Lloyd takes the role with great stride. I love how he unearthed the more sensitive side to Beast's character and watching the transformation back to Prince charming was a great wow factor for this production!
If you are looking for a pantomime that has the elements of tradition, without the big names in the cast then Belgrade Theatre's is for you. If I Were Not In Pantomime is one of the best renditions I have seen so far and was hilarious to witness!
Beauty and the Beast have some flaws it needs to iron out, I think this panto will continue to develop and become a firm favourite with families who have the opportunity to see it.
Beauty and the Beast is performing at the Belgrade Theatre, Coventry until 8 January 2022. Book your tickets here.