Beauty and the Beast | Storyhouse Chester

In a festive season where many theatres opt for a traditional pantomime, it is refreshing to see a family-friendly production that feels both modern and inclusive. Beauty and the Beast at the Storyhouse in Chester takes a traditional tale that audiences know and love while remaining accessible for all the family, teaching important values whilst striking a thoughtful balance between familiarity and originality.

Closely following the original story, we find ourselves in Fromage Ville, where the enthusiastic villagers are battling to win Village of the Year 2025. When the Judge pays the village a visit, the Mayor's daughter Belle lets it slip that there's a Beast living in the castle, ruining the village's chances of winning the prize. Belle embarks on a journey to the Beast's castle, determined to prove that kindness and understanding overcomes fear and prejudice.

Writer Anne Odeke's modern approach shines through in its themes of acceptance, with a non-binary character and a same sex relationship being part of the plot, without it ever being made a focus of. It happens naturally and it's refreshing to see. Odeke's script attempts to incorporate elements of a traditional pantomime with modern hits, humour and current trends. There is a good mix of humour to hit different target audiences, but the plot in itself seems a little convoluted with too many subplots and therefore certain themes and character arcs are not developed to their full potential.

Emmy Stonelake as Fairy Lavender is simply divine, and instantly wins the audience over with warmth and spirit. Miriam O'Brien gives good contrast as wicked Nightshade and plays up to the audience as they jeer. Daniel Bowskill gives a standout performance as the Beast, with a performance of Creep that is chilling, perfectly capturing his anguish at being cursed. Caitlin Drake is stunning as Amelie, Belle's best friend, with a mash-up of Man I Need and Manchild that desperately needs to be on my 'men are trash' playlist. An honourable mention must also go to Alfie O'Connor who impresses in the ensemble with a captivating performance.

Pranav Viswanathan is worth visiting this festive show alone. Viswanathan is absolute comedy gold and steals the spotlight in every scene that he is in. Interacting with the audience, Viswanathan picks on an audience member for the duration of the show, and I can imagine that the selected member of the audience will find it easy to go along with it due to Viswanathan's natural charm.

Amy Jane Cook's set and costume design is vibrant and charming, with lighting design from Aaron J Dootson which makes this show a visual spectacle. Rebecca Applin's musical arrangements and direction ensures that, for the most part, the songs fit into the narrative and propel the story forward.

Overall, Beauty and the Beast at Storyhouse is a charming and imaginative retelling that respects the original tale while confidently carving out its own identity. Whilst some elements struggle to land, overall it is a joyful and inclusive festive show that stands out amongst traditional festive offerings.

Beauty and the Beast Plays at Storyhouse in Chester until 04th January 2026.

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★★★☆☆ (3*)

Gifted tickets in return for an honest review | Photography by ?