STEVE Shappelle and Jill Ashall's production of Beauty is a musical fairytale to be enjoyed by children and adults.

There are no Disney-style talking teapots. But an hilarious witch played by the diminutive Sue Hodge (Mimi in 'Allo, 'Allo) had the audience rolling about.

And Cal, the 'master's' servant/fool/jester (Martin Winpress), is an engaging character with his puckish antics and mime-like movements.

Beast (Arvid Larsen) is an impressive figure with hooves and horns, who belts out his allotted duets with his leading lady, Tonicha Jeronimo (of Emmerdale fame) with style.

Gerry Schilling's script brings together strands of different versions of the ancient tale which is thought to have its roots in Greek folklore.

The whole thing would be improved if it didn't go at such a breakneck speed. The cast can afford to relax a little.

Some good songs put the icing on this pleasant show. I was still singing one this morning.

There are matinees Thursday and Saturday. Zoe Harwood

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