Parr Hall Panto

Beauty and The Beast

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Reviewed by Nikki Cotter

Opening Night verdict ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Tony Peers Productions are back at Warrington’s Parr Hall for their annual Panto production; this year they’re treating audiences to a classic favourite, Beauty and The Beast.

This family friendly production will entertain both young and old alike with its traditional panto elements combined with a talented cast which includes superb performances from TV’s Anne Hegarty and Jake Quickenden.

The familiar story of Belle needs no introduction allowing the fun to quickly begin as panto favourite Daniel Dean packs in the comedy from the start as the loveable but unlucky in love Pee Wee Potts. His scenes with Mervyn Francis as his Mum, Dame Polly Potts have the audiences in stitches, gifting then with plenty of opportunities for shouts of ‘It’s behind you!’.

Taking on the role of Belle is an impressive Charlotte Buxton, who somehow manages to still deliver a performance of ‘My Heart Will Go On’ that Celine Dion would be proud of despite the slapstick chaos unfolding around her.

Anne Hegerty gives a great performance as Fairy Rose marking her second panto appearance at Warrington’s Parr Hall. Add into the mix a scene stealing performance from Jake Quickenden who has the audience in the palm of his hand as a dishy but devilish Gaston and you really have got the recipe for a fabulously fun night at the theatre.

This is an engaging production which will entertain all ages, there’s gags a plenty, brilliant bops and if you’re unlucky a spraying from a super soaker or two!

The traditional sets are simple allowing the cast to take centre stage here, aided beautifully by local dancers from Felicia Burns School of Dance.

There’s plenty to enjoy about this production from the talented cast to the glittering costumes. The audience interaction and local references allow the cast to playfully connect with the audience while the silliness and slapstick ensures the laughter never stops. Panto is unique in offering a great opportunity for families to enjoyed live theatre in a relaxed and accessible way, guaranteeing special memories are made for another year.

Beauty and The Beast runs at Warrington’s Parr Hall until Sunday January 11th, with concessions and family tickets available. Tickets and further information can be found here.

Jack and The Beanstalk

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Reviewers by Nikki Cotter

Opening Night verdict ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

If there’s one thing that’s guaranteed to banish the January blues it’s the Parr Hall’s annual panto.

Partnering with Tony Peers Productions to bring plenty of feel-good fun, slapstick humour as well of course as all the traditional elements we all know and love, Jack and The Beanstalk certainly hits the spot.

This traditional take on panto sticks faithfully to the plot ensuring the magic of the story is retold to a new generation of theatre goers. Taking on the titular role of Jack is Lucy Summers, both a talented actor and superb vocalist, Summers shines on stage. Her delivery of Defying Gravity a particular highlight and one that would make any Elphaba green with envy. Summers pairing with Amy Thompson as Jill is a perfect one. The two have great chemistry with their vocals blending beautifully together. While Thompson’s connection with the audience is second to none.

Much of the comedy comes from audience favourites Daniel Dean as Jack Trott and his mother Dame Tilly Trott played brilliantly by Mark Newell. This is a pairing made in panto heaven, there’s silliness, audience participation and a touch of cheeky innuendo for the adults in the audience. Dean has perfected his craft and the kids just love him while Newell is a fantastic Dame, his witty one liners make for some of the most memorable parts of the show as he adds a modern twist to the traditional with his garish costumes and superb song choices.

Sara Nelson’s Fairy Sweet Pea is magical with her melodic rhymes while Frank Simms (who also directs the piece) laps up the boos as the villainous Fleshcreep. Kyle White also adds to the fun as the hapless King who isn’t quite in control of his kingdom.

This family friendly panto does not disappoint, a perfect introduction to theatre for little ones which will entertain young and old alike. Special mention must also go to the Felicia Burns dancers who make up the young company. Their sparkling presence and professionalism compliments the talented cast perfectly.

Jack and The Beanstalk will start your year off on a high and entertain you thoroughly, just watch out for the super soaker!

Jack and The Beanstalk is on at Warrington’s Parr Hall until Sunday 14th January tickets available here