This Christmas, the Theatre Royal Bath will once again take centre stage in the city’s festive celebrations as Beauty and the Beast brings magic, music and laughter to audiences of all ages.
The annual pantomime, presented by UK Productions in association with the Theatre Royal Bath, features a cast led by Coronation Street actor Marc Baylis, alongside Bath panto favourites Jon Monie and Nick Wilton, plus West End performers Amelia Adams, Shani Cantor and Andrew Gallo.
The production has been written by Bath’s own Jon Monie, who returns to the stage as Louis La Plonk. Speaking at the cast launch, he said: “I’m thrilled to be back. I get to do a job that I love, in a city that I love, and surrounded by people that I love.”
Monie promised a show packed with everything audiences expect from a traditional pantomime. “Hopefully it ticks every single pantomime box. Romance, adventure, evil curses and magic resolutions, there’s slapstick comedy, songs for every musical taste, and a big bucket of glitter.”
Making his Bath pantomime debut, Marc Baylis said the Theatre Royal holds a special place in his heart after appearing there early in his career.
“I remember distinctly as a young actor standing on the stage and thinking, I’ve worked my arse off for this moment. This theatre has a very special place in my heart, and I can’t wait to get on that stage again.”
Meanwhile, panto dame Nick Wilton said he was delighted to return to Bath for one of his favourite productions.
The festive spectacular will also feature dancers from Bath’s Dorothy Coleborn School of Dance, adding a local touch to this year’s family show.
Beauty and the Beast runs at the Theatre Royal Bath from Thursday 10 December 2026 to Sunday 10 January 2027. Performances include daytime and evening shows throughout the run. Tickets are available from the Theatre Royal Bath Box Office on 01225 448844 or online at https://www.theatreroyal.org.uk/