It’s that time of year again! Panto season has come around and families and theatre lovers alike will be flocking to theatres all over Scotland to enjoy some hilarious shows throughout the festive period. ‘Beauty and the Beastie’ takes to the stage at the Pavillion Theatre, with their star studded cast looking to give the audience in attendance a fantastic experience. The highly anticipated and beloved Pavillion Pantomime always has people hurrying through the doors. And this year is no different.
Written and directed by Eric Potts and fan favourite stage star Liam Dolan, the story and script had the perfect balance of original story, mixed with the Scottish panto-y goodness. Very easy to follow and enjoy for the younger audience.
Visually the show was fantastic. The use of projection screens for the changing backgrounds and setting was an excellent choice as it allowed a bit more creative freedom with the images created. One or two slight glitches on the screen during the show, however, nothing noticeable and a risk you must take when using something such as screens. The costumes for both the primary cast and ensemble were beautifully eye-catching and extravagant. The vibrant colours and gorgeous gowns were perfect for the characters.
Sound wise, during the first act, it sounded as though the balance was off with the mics during the musical numbers, with the music overpowering the vocals at points. This was quickly rectified for act 2 and never seemed to become an issue again.
The choreography on display created by Stephanie Fulton was clean and very captivating. The dancers and ensemble as always excited the moves very well, looking great in unison as a solid group with fantastic chemistry.
Liam Dolan was phenomenal in his performance as Hector. Dolan’s energy filled the room and his ability to deliver comedic dialogue, whether it be scripted or improvised, is an exceptional talent that had the audience and even cast members in stitches.
Scott Fletcher portrayed Prince Lorenzo/Beastie very well. His slightly pompous and royal composure was excellent for the Prince, then the character arc towards his love for Belle was executed nicely. Fletcher also showcased his great vocal range during the show.
Jack Jester as Benedict Bridie was hilarious. His flamboyant bully approach to the character led to some fantastic interaction with other characters and some very funny moments – with some early 2000s era insults thrown in for nostalgia.
Grado and Stephen Purdon as Hammie and Tammy were the dynamic duo they always are, every year. Appearing on stage to a thunderous applause and cheer from the crowd, they both immediately locked the audience in with some hilarious back and forths and the introduction of a catchphrase that will be stuck in everyone’s head this festive season. Grado and Purdon complement each other amazingly and are able to bring life and energy out of anyone out on stage with them.
Valissa Scott did a great job as Fairy Fiona. Scott controlled the pacing of the narrating well, delivering some funny jokes in amongst the dialogue and showcased her powerful vocal ability and range during some numbers throughout the show.
Jennifer Neil portrayed Belle beautifully. Neil had a great balance of gracefulness, kindness and fearlessness, lending very well to her character’s journey. Neil was able to highlight her vocal ability also during several numbers, showcasing her powerfulness and range.
Craig Glover was excellent from start to finish as Dame Dolly. Glover’s comedic timing is impeccable and never once did the energy drop below 110%. The silly shenanigans and hilariously delivered dialogue kept the audience in stitches the whole show.
Nikki auld brought a fun, quirky and charismatic dynamic to the show as Professor Porridge. The quirky characteristics were executed well and brought a fresh spark whenever she appeared on stage.
In conclusion, Beauty and the Beastie delivers once again as the highly sought-after Pavillion panto leaves the audience, made up of people of all ages, beaming with excitement after a fabulous time at the theatre. The chemistry between the cast – who are now established as Pavilion regulars – is electric and a main ingredient to the success of the show.
Photography – Martin Shields
The show runs until January 12th 2025 @ Pavillion Theatre, Glasgow!
Get your tickets here – https://trafalgartickets.com/pavilion-theatre-glasgow/en-GB/event/pantomime/beauty-and-the-beastie-tickets
Theatre Scotland 
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