The New Wolsey Theatre’s Rock ‘n’ Roll Panto has reached a quarter-century milestone, and what better way to celebrate than with a glittering, actor-musician adaptation of Beauty and the Beast.
Forget any pre-conceptions of the traditional tale – this is pantomime ripped up and plugged in, trading dusty ballrooms for an electric, Ipswich-centric adventure that is the usual festive chaos. Writer Vikki Stone, whose talent for modernising the form has been nationally recognised, delivers a script that is as topical as it is funny, ensuring laughs work with both the adults and the younger members of the audience.
As we all know, this is not just a panto; it’s a full-throttle rock concert that happens to have a plot that can be followed. The signature Wolsey style, where every member of the cast is an accomplished actor-musician, is the beating heart of the production. The weaving of classic rock and pop hits – from Black Eyed Peas, Lionel Richie, Chappell Roan to high-energy anthems, into the narrative always blows me away and brings me much happiness.
I marvel at the sheer talent on stage, switching seamlessly between acting, singing, and playing guitars or thumping drums, even swapping instruments, creates an atmosphere of relentless, live energy that keeps everyone entertained.
Leading the charge are a sensational ensemble of returning favourites. Max Gallagher’s Dame, Mrs Ringer, is a comedic joy – a pub landlady with perfectly pitched gags and rapport that keeps the audience in stitches without ever straying too far into the blue. She is perfectly contrasted by Signe Larsson as the villainous Snarlina, a lycra-clad temptress whose spectacular boots are only surpassed by her powerful vocal range. Larsson is the glue that holds the mayhem together, drawing boos and hisses with captivating menace.
Nis Raza Hamilton’s Belle is far from a passive princess; she’s an ambitious, podcast-recording young woman whose curiosity is what drives the plot, alongside her feathered friend, Pigeon (Eloise Richardson), whose antics – and bodily functions – bring some truly chaotic physical comedy. Neil Urquhart delivers a powerhouse performance as the Beast, transforming from a selfish, grumpy creature to a vulnerable figure with one of the strongest voices in the cast, making his musical numbers genuine showstoppers.
The Rock ‘n’ Roll panto is in it’s 25th year for a reason, it’s fun, colourful, loud, funny, creative and filled with great music – all the qualities that make it one of the most popular pantos in the region.
Beauty and the Beast is playing at the New Wolsey theatre until 17th January 2026 – for more info click here.
Photo Credit: Will Green Photography
With thanks to New Wolsey Theatre & Grapevine
