On a bitterly cold Saturday afternoon, Mountbatten Players presented a fairytale pantomime full of warmth, appeal and entertainment.

Steph Edwards was delightful as Bella, Shaun Young (her brother, Luigi) had great comic timing as he formed an easy rapport with the matinee audience, and David Gibbons (their father Mario) was very amusing as the pizza impresario.

Alex McNeice stepped out of the band at extremely short notice to heroically and brilliantly entertain as the Dame. Helen Wood must also be commended for her stand-in performance as the Beast’s valet.

A fabulous set, enhanced by beautifully designed lighting and special effects that captured each atmospheric change, was complemented by an array of stunning costumes. Excellent direction, scintillating choreography and wonderful comedy all combined to ensure that, although not faultless, this was everything a pantomime should be.

Beauty and the Beast – Mountbatten Players The Point, Eastleigh