‘Feels like, I’m falling in love!’ Beauty and the Beast, Churchill Theatre, Bromley. 09.12.2025
December is finally among us and for many local theatres this means Panto season is upon us, for what is Christmas in Britain without pantomime? Pretty boring if you ask me! Oh yes it is!
First this year for me was The Churchill in Bromley!
This year’s panto was Beauty and the Beast — a story I’ve seen in panto form once before, but as always, a fresh take makes it feel brand new. That’s the charm of pantomime: even a classic tale can still surprise you.
This production was full of fun, from a wonderfully chaotic round of tongue-twisters to a silly “Mastermind” quiz that kept the audience laughing. The “If I wasn’t in panto…” number delighted both children and adults alike.
Adding extra sparkle to the show was Hi-de-Hi! legend Su Pollard as Mrs Potty, bringing her trademark humour and energy to the stage, alongside a fabulously gorgeous dame who delivered all the classic panto mischief.
With lively audience participation and some impressive ventriloquism, the whole production made for a perfect festive night out — familiar, funny, and full of panto magic.
Su Pollard, as Mrs Potty, proved she still has the comic timing and stage presence that make her an instant favourite in panto land; her energy is so infectious that even the cast couldn’t help but chuckle at her antics. Her interactions and scenes with enchantress Samantha Womack were a real highlight — the two played off each other brilliantly. Samantha embraced the role of the villain with gusto, clearly relishing every wicked moment, yet still revealing a softer side and a willingness to dive wholeheartedly into the joyful silliness that makes pantomime so special
Young ventriloquist Jamie Leahey was an absolute joy to watch. Every moment he spent on stage had both children and adults laughing — and not just because he was talking for them! His timing, charm, and skill were clear, and it was easy to see his potential. I only wish we’d had more of him to really showcase what he can do! Joining him on stage was Ben Stock as Dame Betty Bouffant, no stranger to pantomime having done 20 of them, Ben looked fabulous and was the ideal portrayal of your loveable dame!
Alongside all these big personalities were Sheri Linham as Belle, Alfie French as Prince Sebastian/Beast, and Tom Mussel as Flash Harry. With a surname that already suits his character, Tom was a joy to watch on stage. Alongside Samantha Womack, he not only captured Flash Harry’s charm but also delivered some impressively tricky tongue-twisters. Alfie and Sheri each had moments to shine, particularly vocally — I especially loved their rendition of Coldplay’s “Feels Like I’m Falling in Love”, which truly showcased their singing talents. My daughter was utterly captivated by Belle’s iconic “big yellow dress,” adding another magical moment to the evening
The night delivered a fantastic pantomime, full of colour, talent, and humour, guaranteed to put everyone in the best of moods. What made it even more special for me was being able to share it with my three-year-old daughter, Maisie, as she discovered pantomime for the very first time. She was instantly captivated by the spectacle, the characters, and the laughter, and to watch her enjoyment unfold was the perfect bonus to an already amazing evening.
Suitable for all ages, there are still plenty of chances to grab your tickets today via their website. There are also scheduled relaxed and signed performances, making it accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
