The New Wolsey Theatre have announced that this year’s panto will be Beauty and the Beast, taking the stage from Friday 21 November 2025 until Saturday 17 January 2026.
This spectacular festive show for all ages will be packed full of magical adventure, hilarious panto gags and incredible rock and pop hits all played live by an exceptionally talented cast.
The fabulous Dame Mrs Ringer is making wedding plans for her daughter, unaware that Belle and her feathered friend Pigeon have bigger interests at heart, as they dare to unlock a mysterious 1000-year-old Ipswich door and help the Beast to undo the evil Snarlina’s spell! Can the Beast break the curse in time by learning to love again? Can Belle see beyond his fearsome appearance? And will Pigeon be able to help save the day without getting in a flap?
Beauty and the Beast is written by Vikki Stone, who has received a nomination from the UK Pantomime Association for Best Script for last year’s New Wolsey Theatre festive offering, Sleeping Beauty.
New Wolsey Theatre Chief Executive/Artistic Director Douglas Rintoul, said: “I’m incredibly proud that our much-loved pantomime is receiving national recognition, with Pantomime Award nominations for the second year running.”
Also, after a successful launch last year, the New Wolsey Theatre is running their Pay It Forward campaign again for 2025. Raising over £4,000 from public donations last year, the campaign helps to provide tickets to those who may not otherwise be able to experience the magic of panto. Last year, the theatre worked with charities such as the Ipswich Job Centre and Lighthouse Women’s Aid, and people wanting to donate to this year’s appeal can do so when booking their tickets.
As in previous years, there will be Audio Described, Captioned, British Sign Language interpreted and Relaxed/Dementia-friendly performances, as well as bookable pre-show Touch Tours.
Tickets for Beauty and the Beast go on general sale at 10am on Saturday 22 March via the New Wolsey Theatre’s website by calling 01473 295900 or in-person at the theatre.
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