Halifax’s Victoria Theatre has a long tradition of injecting some fun and magic into the festive season with its annual pantomime – and this year’s production is no exception.

From start to finish, Beauty and the Beast spreads smiles, warmth and cheer.

It’s a traditional family panto – suitable for all ages – with jokes for everyone and plenty of slapstick, provided best by Dame Madeline Marzipan and French Frank.

This waggish pair, played by Andrew Pollard and Matthew Allen, could have been working together for years, so slick is their timing and dynamic their pairing.

Beauty and the Beast is at the Victoria Theatre in Halifax until January 4.

placeholder image — Beauty and the Beast is at the Victoria Theatre in Halifax until January 4.

The duo bounce off each other with infectious energy, adlibbing smoothly when needed and proving a huge hit with the audience.

The whole cast is a joy to watch, featuring Sam Willison as the Prince/Beast, Beth Woodcock as Belle and Cathy Breeze as Professor Potage.

Nikki Schofield is Yorkshire’s own charming Yorkshire Fairy Flutterby and Neil Moors has everyone booing as baddy Benedict Bourbon.

The musical numbers include a host of well known contemporary hits and there is some impressive dancing from the ensemble – Nathan Christy, Chloe Mae McDonald, Jacob Stebbings, Naomi Tower and a cast of talented local youngsters.

There are lots of highlights to this show but ones particularly to watch out for are the show’s version of ‘The 12 Days of Christmas’, a “cleaning up” scene and meeting the colourful, furry château servants.

All in all, this is a lovely addition to anyone’s calendar over the festive period and you will not be disappointed.

Beauty and the Beast is being performed at the Victoria Theatre in Halifax until Sunday, January 4.

For more information about the show,, the different times of performances for each day, and to book tickets, visit www.victoriatheatre.co.uk/whats-on/beauty-and-beast or call the theatre box office on 01422 351158.

Beauty and the Beast is produced and written by Imagine Theatre, directed by Robert Marsden, with choreography by Laura Ann Smith.

David Haller is musical director, with musical arrangement by Alec Roberts and Ed Watkins. LX design and programming is by Toby Darvill and sound design is by Andy Graham of Orbital Sound.