We headed along to the press night of Beauty and the Beast at Hull New Theatre last night, and it’s safe to say the city’s festive favourite is firmly on top form again this year.
As always, it’s packed with laughs from start to finish. The humour lands perfectly across all ages, with plenty of wonderfully childish jokes that had the younger kids in stitches, alongside cheekier lines that sailed straight over their heads and hit the adults instead.
Even our pre-teen, who currently insists nothing is funny anymore, couldn’t help laughing along – which feels like the ultimate seal of approval.
A big highlight of the night was Jack Gleadow, Hull-born stand-up comedian, who absolutely smashed his first-ever panto role. His timing was spot on, the delivery was effortless, and he brought a real sense of local charm to the stage. You could feel the audience rooting for him, and rightly so – he was brilliant throughout.
The whole cast clearly gel well together, with plenty of audience interaction, fast-paced scenes, and those classic panto moments everyone expects. Paul Chuckle is clearly loving being back in Hull too, leading the fun with confidence and warmth, and keeping the show moving at just the right pace.
Things took a very personal turn right at the end when I somehow found myself on stage. I was pulled up to take part in a quick skit retelling Goldilocks and the Three Bears, proudly cast as Daddy Bear.
What followed involved Paul Chuckle narrating the story while Jack Gleadow ensured that a suspicious-looking bowl of “porridge” – actually a custard pie and shaving foam combo – ended up smeared all over our faces and heads. The kids in the audience absolutely loved it, and the laughter said it all.
Beauty and the Beast is exactly what a Christmas panto should be. Loud, silly, quick-witted, and full of heart, with something for everyone in the room. If you’re looking for a festive treat that’ll keep both kids and adults entertained, this year’s production at Hull New Theatre is an easy recommendation.
Beauty and the Beast runs throughout December at Hull New Theatre in the city centre, with daytime and evening performances available. It’s always a popular one, so booking ahead is a good idea.
Don’t forget to subscribe to our FREE weekly email for more like this in Hull & East Yorkshire!
