The Unmissable Beauty and the Beast Roars into Croydon This Christmas
This Christmas, magic is back in Croydon. From Friday, 12 December 2025 to Sunday, 4 January 2026, the iconic Fairfield Halls will once again transform into a wonderland of festive delight as Beauty and the Beast bursts onto the stage in a lavish new pantomime from BH Live and UK Productions.
Early booking is strongly advised – this is the tale as old as time… that everyone wants to see. With demand growing by the day, don’t risk missing out on the magic, the music, and the mayhem. Secure your seats now before the last petal falls!
At the centre of this year’s excitement is the blockbuster return of Charlie Guest, Croydon’s beloved ‘King of Christmas’, who is back by popular demand for a third triumphant season as the hilariously chaotic Louis La Plonk. With his signature charm, riotous energy, and dazzling stage presence, Charlie is ready to bring the house down night after night.
This is not just another pantomime. This is a spectacle. A theatrical event packed with breathtaking stage sets, dazzling costumes, and spine-tingling musical numbers that will leave audiences gasping, laughing, and cheering for more. With tickets already selling fast, theatre lovers are urged to book now to avoid missing the most magical show of the season.
Charlie said;
“I’m beyond thrilled to be coming back to Croydon—it’s honestly the highlight of my year! The audiences here are electric, the love, the laughter, the madness – it’s what makes Panto magic. After two unforgettable years, we’re about to take it up several notches. This show is packed with showstoppers, surprises, and side-splitting fun. Louis La Plonk is back, and he’s bringing the biggest Christmas party Croydon’s ever seen! You do not want to miss this one!”
But it’s not just the cast that makes this production shine. The heart of the show beats with a script from award-winning pantomime genius Jon Monie, whose writing has scooped top honours at the UK Pantomime Awards and is beloved by critics and audiences alike. His unique blend of laugh-out-loud comedy, touching emotional beats, and rich, immersive storytelling ensures that Beauty and the Beast will captivate every generation. Add to that a soundtrack of irresistible musical numbers and you’ve got a show with both sparkle and soul.
Joining Charlie Guest on stage is the recently announced EastEnders sensation, Ellie Dadd, taking on the iconic role of Belle. With her striking stage presence, magnetic charm, and stunning vocals, Ellie brings fresh energy and a touch of TV star power to this magical tale, creating a Belle who is as bold and brilliant as she’s beloved. Together, Charlie and Ellie lead a cast that promises to deliver a Panto experience packed with heart, humour, and high-octane theatrical magic.
From the glittering entrance of Fairy Bon Bon to the delightful chaos caused by Polly La Plonk and her mischievous son, this production is bursting with unforgettable characters and moments. The story of Belle and the Beast unfolds in spectacular style, filled with spellbinding romance, thrilling twists, and the ultimate message: that love, and courage can conquer even the darkest curse.
And behind the scenes, magic is being spun by the acclaimed creative duo Sarah Redmond and Anthony Whiteman, who direct and choreograph with flair and finesse. Having helmed smash hits like Aladdin, Peter Pan, and Snow White, they return to Fairfield Halls with their most ambitious production yet – one that promises jaw-dropping visuals, infectious dance numbers, and the kind of panto sparkle that stays with you long after you’ve left the theatre.
Martin Dodd, Producer at UK Productions, added:
“We’re so excited to be returning to Fairfield Halls with another spectacular show, and having Charlie Guest back as Louis La Plonk feels like bringing the magic home. He’s an absolute star – hilarious, brilliant, and loved by audiences year after year.
“What makes this year extra special is the meticulous care that has gone into every element of the production. From Jon Monie’s wonderfully witty and heartfelt script to the show-stopping musical numbers and stunning visuals, this is pantomime with real West End sparkle. It’s full of energy, fun, and quality, and I think families are going to be completely blown away. We honestly can’t wait to see the smiles and hear the laughter when the curtain goes up.”
Steve Turner, Director of Venues at BH Live, said:
“Last year thousands of showgoers came to Fairfield Hall’s pantomime and we hope everyone will join us once more for an unforgettable festive experience. We can’t wait to raise the curtain on another magical panto season. It is a highlight in the theatre’s calendar for so many people of all ages. We are thrilled our pantomime producer, UK Productions, has secured another great cast member for our festive spectacular.”
And speaking of last year, Fairfield Halls made national headlines when Mia Overfield scooped Best Lead in a Pantomime at the UK Pantomime Awards 2025 for her unforgettable turn in Snow White. With that glittering success still fresh in audience minds, the pressure is on, but this year’s creative team and cast are ready to go even bigger, brighter, and more breathtaking.
Whether you’re a family looking for your next festive tradition, a school group eager to treat students to something spectacular, or a lifelong panto fan who wants to be part of something special, this is the show Croydon will be talking about. It’s bold. It’s brilliant. It’s Christmas, in technicolour.
Tickets are on sale now at fairfield.co.uk. Early booking is essential – don’t be the one who missed out. For school or group bookings, including subsidised tickets for Pupil Premium students (limited availability), email groupsales@bhlive.org.uk.
This Christmas, the magic is real. Charlie is back. And the beast is waiting. BOOK NOW – before it’s too late.
This year’s production includes:
- Concessions for under 16s on selected performances
- Accessible relaxed performance on Friday 2 January 2026 – open to all
- Dedicated school performances – free ice creams for school groups of 20+
- Concessions on group bookings 10+,20+ and 30+ people
- More exciting casting announcements coming soon!
For information about group bookings, school visits including subsidised tickets for pupil premium students (limited availability T&Cs apply), email groupsales@bhlive.org.uk.
-ENDS-
*Notes to Editors:
Charlie Guest – Bio: Charlie was born at an early age. He was singing and dancing at five, although he was subsequently told to sit down and be quiet by quarter to six.
Charlie Trained with a scholarship to the Guildford School of Acting where he achieved a BA(hons) Degree in Musical Theatre.
Most recently Charlie Has been the Director of Rapunzel at the Riverfront theatre Newport.
Credits Include: Muddles in Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (Fairfield Halls, Croydon); Wishee in Aladdin (Fairfield Halls, Croydon); Silly Billy in Jack and the Beanstalk (King Georges Hall, Blackburn); Dog/Frog in Room on the Broom (West End, UK & Asia Tour); Muddles in Snow White ( King Georges Hall, Blackburn); PC Pong in Aladdin (Anvil, Basingstoke); Domonic in Future Perfect (UK Tour); Simple Simon in Jack and The Beanstalk (Sunderland Empire); Predators in The Gruffalo (Lyric Theatre, West End, UK & Asia Tour); PC Pong in Aladdin (Churchill Theatre, Bromley); Willy Do It in Beauty and the Beast (Gravesend); Understudy in The Gruffalo (UK/Asia Tour); Charlie has also been a part of recording a concept album for a brand new musical –The Inbetween; Devon in Evil Bread (Independent feature film); Zalika in How Lion became King of Tinga Tinga Land (UK Tour); Resident Vocalist in Search for a Twitter Star (Lyric Theatre, West End); Prince James in Cole Porter’s Jubilee (Tabard Theatre, London); Ensemble in Children of Eden (Prince of Wales, West End); Jazz in Club Class (UK Tour); Idle Jack in Dick Whittington (Loughborough); First cover Dick Deadeye and Sir Joseph Porter in HMS Pinafore (London’s Little Opera House); Lucentio in The Taming of the Shrew (Bellairs Playhouse); Ensemble in West Side Story (Yvonne Arnaud Theatre); Buttons in Cinderella (Loughborough); Vocalist with the prestigious GSA Singers at Her Majesties Theatre (West End); Archie Goose in Mother Goose (Loughborough); Governor Jack Slaton in Jason Robert Brown’s Parade (Electric Theatre); Vocalist in The Cantabile Christmas Concert with the West End Chorus; Noah in 110 in the Shade (Bellairs Playhouse).
Charlie is also a Presenter for an Online children’s TV channel – Cheeky Chimps TV.
Charlie is thrilled to be returning to Croydon for a Third year and would like to thank his family, friends and AMAZING wife for all their love and support.
Instagram @charlieguest88
For more information about BH Live please contact:Daisy Saunders, PR & Communications Executive
E: press.office@bhlive.org.uk
About BH Live
Champions of community engagement, health and wellness across Dorset, Hampshire, and London
BH Live, a registered charity and social enterprise, is a leading operator of sports and leisure centres, theatres, and event venues. Our vision is to create sustainable and inspiring opportunities, deliver great experiences for our communities, and improve health and well-being.
With a strong commitment to accessibility and community engagement, BH Live continues to enhance the quality of people’s lives, health and wellbeing in the communities it serves.
BH Live was established in 2010. Local authority partners include BCP Council, Portsmouth City Council and Croydon Council.
We are at the heart of the UK’s growing social economy. Together with our partners we are helping to change lives and make a positive impact in the community.
For more visit bhlive.org.uk.
Get social with us:
LinkedIn – BH Live
Facebook – @SocialEnterpriseBHLive
Instagram @bhliveuk
BH Live is a leisure and cultural trust, established in 2010 as a ‘non profit distributing organisation’ (NPDO) for public benefit to promote participation in leisure and cultural events. BH Live is a Company Limited by Guarantee and Registered Charity. Charity No: 1138311. Company No: 07092112. VAT Reg No: 108 2248 37. BH Live (Enterprises) Ltd, is a Private Company Limited by Shares and a wholly owned subsidiary of BH Live. Company No: 07175626. VAT Reg No: 108 2248 37. Registered Office: Bournemouth International Centre, Exeter Road, Bournemouth, BH2 5BH. Registered in England and Wales.
About Fairfield Halls, Croydon
Fairfield Halls is managed BH Live, a registered charity and social enterprise, in partnership with Croydon Council.
With a long and distinguished history, Fairfield Halls sits in the heart of Croydon.
Spaces inside the venue include its 809-seat Ashcroft Theatre, the world-class 1,802-seat Concert Hall, and The Recreational a 750-capacity standing live music venue. Additional studio space is available in the adjoining Cube Studio. As well as the main auditoriums, there are additional spaces and rooms that regularly accommodate local business events, conferences, exhibitions, meetings, consumer-led events, and attractions such as family gatherings and celebrations.
Companies in residence at Fairfield Halls include Talawa, and London Mozart Players.
Following a major refurbishment in 2019, the venue’s opening seasons included an eclectic mix of theatre, music, comedy, performance, dance and family entertainment including an annual festive pantomime.
Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth, The Queen Mother opened the Fairfield Halls on Friday 2 November 1962. The inaugural concert in the Concert Hall was performed by the BBC Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Sir Malcolm Sargent, with renowned soloist Yehudi Menuhin also performing.
The Ashcroft Theatre was opened on 5 November by Croydon-born Dame Peggy Ashcroft, with the opening ceremony including a monologue by Sir John Betjeman called ‘Local Girl Made Good’. The first play performed was Royal Gambit, starring Dulcie Gray.
The Arnhem Foyer is named after Croydon’s twin-town of Arnhem in the Netherlands.
Buy tickets
- Buy tickets online at fairfield.co.uk
- Buy tickets by phone 0300 500 0595
- In person from box office at Fairfield Halls – see website for opening times.
For call charges, opening times and more visit fairfield.co.uk
Follow us on:
Facebook – @fairfieldcroydon
Instagram – @croydonfairfield
UK Productions
Established in 1995, UK Productions is responsible for over 200 musical and drama productions nationally, internationally, in the West End and on Broadway. Producing credits include The Beekeeper of Aleppo, The Kite Runner, Legally Blonde – the Musical, 42nd Street, Oklahoma!, Singin’ in the Rain, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, South Pacific, Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, Jekyll & Hyde – the Musical, Carousel, Fiddler on the Roof, Murdered to Death, Anything Goes, The Pirates of Penzance, and Barnum.
UKP are renowned pantomime producers and have productions the length and breadth of the country. During Christmas 2025/26 they will have 11 productions in number 1 theatres. The company operate a busy set and costume production and hire business, supplying musicals, plays and pantomime sets, props and costumes to commercial and amateur producers nationally and internationally. https://www.ukproductions.co.uk/