Spectacular and lavish, the annual pantomime at the Churchill Theatre, The Beauty and the Beast, provides a memorable end to the year (and start to 2026, as it runs until 4th January).
Episode 264 of the Bromley Buzz podcast was recorded at the press night of the show, and features TV’s Hi-De-Hi great Su Pollard (as Mrs Potty), Ben Stock (as Betty Boufant, a classic Dame), and Tom Mussell (as Flash Harry, below, another excellent performer on the night). The interviews also include a show sponsor from The Landing at London Biggin Hill Airport, and one of our fellow media watching the show, Katie Rose of Rose Reviews, who called it a ”fantastic pantomime”.
Marrying up bright visuals, song, dance, humour and drama, this show does everything a panto should do.
A beastly Prince became a princely Beast, entranced by the charms of Sheri Lineham as village girl Belle, and served by his equally enchanted entourage, including Mrs Potty, the housekeeper, who commanded the breadth of the stage and captivated the audience. Her humble sheer niceness was balanced by Samantha Womack, spectacularly attired as the evil Enchantress, who conjured up plenty of dislike from the younger members of the audience in particular. They loved the comic lead, Jamie Leahey, whose Silly Billy was a bright, cheeky spark.
Alfie French as The Beast spent much of the night looking, of course, beastly, but with his singing rather more angelic.
A pantomime is a fusion of many, many talents, off and on stage. From the ensemble of dancers (above) to the production of Rob Holmes, to the eye-captivating costumes by Maximes Feathers, and to the live band led by David Lane, this fusion produced a classic panto and a fine spectacle.
Zeenat Noorani added, “A panto is a true mark that the festive season has begun. More so, as Beauty and the Beast brought back fond memories of my professional skating days – worldwide! I was in total awe and blown away by the energetic and delightful Su Pollard, who was absolutely sensational as Mrs Potty – bursting with energy, mischief and classic panto charm. Her impeccable comic timing and larger-than-life presence had both children and adults laughing throughout. For me, Su stole the show as Mrs Potty. Her infectious enthusiasm, quick wit and cheeky humour lit up the stage every time she appeared.
“However, Flash Harry can deliver one hell of a tongue twister whilst multitasking effortlessly, juggling his good looks, charm, and cheeky stage presence. A true crowd-pleaser who had the audience hooked.
“The costumes were absolutely stunning, bursting with colour, sparkle, and attention to detail – from Dame Betty Boufant to the ensemble of dancers’ outfits. Each character was perfectly outfitted, bringing their personalities to life. The props added extra magic to the production, from whimsical household items to dazzling stage effects, making every scene feel immersive and full of fun. Classic Panto Magic!!!”
Tickets here.
Darren Weale, 15 December 2025
Bromley Buzz 