Local young stars join the cast of Beauty and the Beast at Cornerstone Arts Centre

Published Thursday 25 September 2025

This Christmas, Cornerstone Arts Centre in Didcot will be filled with sparkle, song and festive magic as Beauty and the Beast takes to the stage and the production will shine even brighter thanks to the addition of a talented youth cast.

Following open auditions earlier this month, 49 children from across Oxfordshire aged 9 – 18 showcased their talent, enthusiasm and love for performing. From this pool of outstanding young performers, 24 were chosen to create three chorus teams of eight.

These young stars will form the all-singing, all-dancing ensemble, featuring heavily throughout the show as villagers, servants in the Beast’s enchanted castle, and even the dastardly Grimalkin’s mischievous minions.

Darren Maddison, Company Director of Polka Dot Pantomimes, said: “We were delighted with the number of young people that attended the audition, and the standard was incredibly high.

“It’s obvious that there is a real passion for the performing arts in Didcot and every young person that attended gave their all. It wasn’t an easy decision, but we are thrilled to welcome our three chorus teams to the production who will all make the production a wonderful show for audiences.”

Cllr Georgina Heritage, Cabinet Member for Communities at South Oxfordshire District Council who own Cornerstone Arts Centre, said: “It’s fantastic that so many young people from across the county will have the chance to be part of a professional pantomime right here in Didcot. Opportunities like this build confidence, skills and lasting memories. I can’t wait to see these talented young performers light up the stage this Christmas.”

Produced by award-winning company Polka Dot Pantomimes, Beauty and the Beast promises dazzling costumes, toe-tapping musical numbers, magical special effects and plenty of traditional pantomime fun for the whole family.

Rehearsals begin on Tuesday 9 December, as the excitement builds towards opening night.

The show is on at Cornerstone Arts Centre from Thursday 18 December until Wednesday 31 December 2025 and you can book tickets via their website or Box Office.