Beauty and the Beast

Reporter: Colin Meredith
Date online: 12/06/2008

The friends of St Gabriels have this year presented the classic tale of Beauty and the Beast as their annual pantomime. The story follows the transformation of Prince Wilhelm (Jackie Barlow) into a hideous beast by Scorpio (Pat Majerski).

To break the spell, the prince must learn to love and be loved - only then will he regain his true form and live, yes you've guessed it, happily ever after. This Billy Sheerin production had plenty of everything to keep the audiences attention from beginning to end.

Storyteller Bev Foster who introduced us to the main characters as they enter the panto helped the story along. As well as a host of talented principals the production had three childrens choruses who deserve a special mention. They delivered their dance numbers with delight and the audience were looking forward with anticipation to their next appearance.

Among the principals Simon Thompson and Tim Richardson as Albert and Alfred brought energy with them every time they came on stage. They were ably assisted by Tommy Ingham as Dame Dilly and provided us with most of the comedy.

The costumes were colourful, the sets impressive and most of all the whole cast enthusiastic. Judging by the warm and prolonged applause at the finale the audience loved every minute of what was an enjoyable evenings entertainment.

Beauty and the Beast - The Friends of St Gabriels
9 February 2005