AD | If you're searching for a night of laughter, magic, and unforgettable performances, look no further! Beauty and the Beast at the Wolverhampton Grand Theatre is a dazzling treat for all ages. Running until Sunday, January 5th, this spectacular production has earned its well-deserved five-star rating from us! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Beauty and the Beast at Wolverhampton Grand Theatre
This Christmas, Wolverhampton Grand Theatre proudly presents its perfect home-grown panto, Beauty and the Beast. For the first time on its stage, this beloved classic features Gladiator’s GIANT alongside panto favourites Tam Ryan and Ian Adams.
Musical theatre enthusiasts are in for a treat! Original Queen from SIX, Jarnéia Richard-Noel, who originated the role of Catherine of Aragon, has taken on the role of the Fairy (Angelica). She’s joined by Olivia Mitchell as Belle, Tom Lowe as Prince Pascal/The fearsome Beast, and Timothy Lucas as Monsieur Le Pratt (or should I say "Bil-ston" - for those local and would get the reference!)
Will Belle be able to see beyond the Beast’s fearsome exterior and uncover the man within? Can the cursed prince find the strength to love and be loved in return before the final petal falls from the enchanted rose?
A Tale as Old as Time, Reimagined
While Beauty and the Beast is a story cherished for generations, Wolverhampton Grand Theatre’s production breathes new life into the classic tale with a modern twist. This isn’t just a fairy tale—it’s a spectacle!
At the heart of this production is the timeless tale of Belle and her journey of love, bravery, and self-discovery. Olivia Mitchell shines as Belle, bringing grace, intelligence, and warmth to the character. Her ability to portray Belle’s strength and compassion makes her a perfect fit for this iconic role.
Opposite her is Thomas Lowe as Prince Pascal. His dual performance is nothing short of captivating, seamlessly transitioning from a commanding, fearsome Beast to a vulnerable prince seeking redemption. Together, their chemistry adds a layer of emotional depth to the story, making every interaction between them a joy to watch.
Music That Elevates Every Moment
The pantomime features a show-stopping soundtrack that blends beloved hits with contemporary favourites, we enjoyed powerful renditions of songs like Katy Perry’s Roar, Survivor’s iconic Eye of the Tiger, and the uplifting Come Alive from The Greatest Showman.
The music is so perfectly placed that it elevates every moment, enhancing both the humour and the heart of the story. Whether it’s a comedic number, like Sweep and Clean, that has the audience in stitches or a heartfelt ballad like, Something About the Way You Look Tonight, that brings a tear to the eye, each song feels like it belongs.
A standout musical moment comes from Jarnéia Richard-Noel who plays Fairy. Her stunning vocals are nothing short of breathtaking, delivering performances that not only showcase her talent but also underscore the emotional beats of the narrative.
Laughter That Lights Up the Stage
Pantomime is synonymous with comedy, and this production brings laughs in abundance. Timothy Lucas as Monsieur Le Pratt combines sharp wit with physical comedy, keeping the audience in stitches. With razor-sharp wit and impeccable physical timing, Timothy brings a vibrancy to the role that keeps the audience in stitches.
Every time he graced the stage, the energy lifted, and one of the show’s most clever recurring gags revolved around the use of Lizzo’s hit song Good as Hell—specifically, the iconic lines "I do my hair toss, check my nails, baby how you feelin'? Feeling good as hell." The song would erupt whenever Monsieur Le Pratt made an entrance, adding a playful, modern twist to his character. The choice of this empowering anthem not only complemented Lucas’s flamboyant and cheeky personality but also had the audience laughing.
Adding to the comedic brilliance are the panto dream team, Tam Ryan as Joey and Dame Ian Adams as Madame Fifi Fou-Fou, whose onstage chemistry and hilarious antics are a highlight of the show. Their humour strikes the perfect balance, appealing to both kids and adults with clever jokes, outrageous puns, and interactive moments that have the audience roaring with laughter.
Their writing talents shine through in the script, which is packed with modern references, local nods, and timeless humour. From slapstick comedy to subtle one-liners, the dialogue feels fresh, engaging, and perfectly pitched for a pantomime audience.
A Villain to Remember
No pantomime is complete without a villain, and Giant (Jamie Johal) delivers an unforgettable performance as the evil sorcerer, Gladius, for his first pantomime appearance.
Known from BBC One’s Gladiators, Giant brings an imposing physicality and commanding stage presence to the role. His booming voice and sinister demeanour make him a formidable antagonist, while his occasional humourous asides ensure he’s still a pantomime villain at heart.
Dance That Dazzles
The choreography is another standout aspect of the production. The ensemble cast (Sam Cherry, Harry Dutton, Jack Kempson, Jedidiah Leafe, Lydia Moynihan, Amy Page, Holly Pearce, and Lucy Rice) performs with energy and precision, bringing vibrancy and excitement to every dance number. From high-energy group routines to more intimate moments, the choreography perfectly complements the music and story, adding an extra layer of spectacle to the show.
Visual Splendor
The production is a feast for the eyes, featuring stunning set designs that transport the audience to magical castles, bustling villages, and eerie forests. Every detail, from the intricate costumes to the dazzling special effects, adds to the sense of wonder and enchantment. The Beast’s transformation scene, in particular, is a visual highlight, combining clever staging with breathtaking effects to create a moment that’s pure theatre magic.
Final Thoughts
Whether you're a regular panto theatre goer or you're looking to buy tickets to your first spectacular pantomime, Beauty and the Beast at Wolverhampton Grand Theatre promises an unforgettable experience.
With its perfect mix of laugh-out-loud comedy, dazzling musical numbers, and heartwarming storytelling, this production is a true celebration of everything that makes panto so special. No matter your age or experience with theatre, you will not be disappointed!
Beauty and the Beast runs until Sunday, January 5th. You can book tickets via the Wolverhampton Grand Theatre website and experience the magic for yourself. Ticket prices start from £16.50 per person.
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