BEAUTY and the Beast prepares to leave Manchester's Palace Theatre on February 8, having been watched by more than 135,000 people.

Here are some of the spellbinding figures which will have enchanted audiences at more than 100 performances of the show: there were 101 kisses between Belle and the Beast; Alex Bourne, who plays the Beast, has spent more than 100 hours in make up; audiences have enjoyed 45,000 ice creams and six boys from Greater Manchester have appeared as Chip.

To catch the show, call 0161 242 2524 for tickets.