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First look at New Wolsey's Beauty and the Beast panto

New Wolsey Theatre has released production images for Beauty and the Beast, giving audiences a first glimpse of the Rock'n'Roll pantomime which has been drawing rave reviews and packed houses since opening on 21 November.

Pantomime show
Beauty and the Beast cast bring rock and pop hits to life at New Wolsey Theatre
(Will Green PhotographyNew Wolsey Theatre)

Why it matters: The images showcase what audiences can expect from the Ipswich venue's festive production, which runs until 17 January and features magical adventure, hilarious panto gags and rock and pop hits played live by actor-musicians.

The details: The cast stars several popular veterans of previous New Wolsey Theatre pantos, with Max Gallagher as Dame Mrs Ringer, Signe Larsson as Snarlina, Myles Miller as Jacques Le Plop, Eloise Richardson as Pigeon and Neil Urquhart as the Beast, alongside Leo Elso, Nis Raza Hamilton, Ceri-Ann Townsend and Christian Tyler-Wood.

Award-winning writer Vikki Stone brings the production to the stage, working alongside director Jake Smith and musical director Paul Schofield.

The bigger picture: Livestreamed performances from 20-29 December will help bring the magic of panto to a wider audience than ever before.

The Pay It Forward campaign returns after raising over £4,000 last year. The initiative provides tickets to those who may not otherwise be able to experience the magic of panto, distributed via organisations such as Ipswich Job Centre and Lighthouse Women's Aid. Audience members can donate when booking tickets.

For context: Audio described, captioned, British Sign Language interpreted and relaxed/dementia-friendly performances are available, as well as bookable pre-show Touch Tours. Late night specials run on Friday evenings at 21:00, aimed at audiences of 16 plus. These shows may contain strong language, actors tripping one another up and occasional corpsing.

The bottom line: With the show already proving a festive hit, these production images offer a preview of the spectacle awaiting audiences at one of Ipswich's most popular Christmas traditions.

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Despite a lack of promotion, the big reveal drew a good crowd of passersby

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