Timeless tale will mark return of Christmas pantomime

The Belgrade Theatre have announced the return of live pantomime this year with the enchanting and timeless tale of Beauty and the Beast.

The legendary pantomime returns just in time to bring some Christmas magic and mayhem back to the Belgrade 's main stage and will run from Wednesday 24 November to Saturday 8 January.

Once again written by and starring Coventry 's favourite dame, Iain Lauchlan, Beauty and the Beast promises to be full-to-the-brim with laugh-out-loud lines, crazy costumes and breathtaking sets created by Belgrade Production Services.

Iain will once again be joined on stage by Craig Hollingsworth as his calamitous sidekick and the dynamic duo promise to bring plenty of comedy and chaos to your Christmas celebrations.

Things are looking bleak for beautiful Belle. Kidnapped by a frightening beast, she is locked away in a dark and dreary castle with little hope of escape.

Unbeknownst to her, the Beast is actually a handsome prince under the curse of an evil enchantress. Only by changing his selfish ways and finding true love can he ever hope to break the spell. Will the Beast change his ways in time? And will Belle ever get back home?

Iain Lauchlan said “I 'm absolutely thrilled that this year we 'll be having a live pantomime on the stage at the Belgrade! After a year without live panto, we can finally get together and experience the magic of theatre again. ”

The Belgrade are delighted to once again be playing to full houses, but performances on Wednesday 24 November and Wednesday 5 January will be socially distanced for any audience members who might not yet feel comfortable going into a full auditorium.

The performance on Wednesday 5 January will also be a chilled performance, with the auditorium doors remaining open and house lights dimmed. This performance is for everybody and may be particularly appreciated by those with dementia or autism.

With loads of adventure, feel-good cheer and lashings of Christmas sparkle, this long anticipated show promises to be an absolute Beauty!

To book your place visit www.belgrade.co.uk or call the box office on 024 7655 3055

Pictured: (Left to Right) Iain Lauchlan and Craig Hollingsworth, photographed by Chloe Ely