Young stars and pantomime pooches to join Beauty and the Beast at Cornerstone!

Local young performers and talented pets are being invited to audition for roles in this year’s magical family pantomime Beauty and the Beast, coming to Cornerstone Arts Centre in Didcot this Christmas.

Award-winning producers Polka Dot Pantomimes are on the lookout for a sensational chorus of young dancers (ages 9–18) bursting with energy, personality and sparkle to take to the stage alongside the professional cast. The young ensemble will support characters including Belle, Dolly Doughnut and the dastardly Grimalkin in this spectacular production of the much-loved tale.

Open dance auditions will take place on Saturday 13 September, 1pm–4pm at Cornerstone Arts Centre, and hopefuls must be at least 9 years old by 1 September 2025 to take part. To take part, applicants must complete and bring a printed audition form, which can be downloaded from the Polka Dot Pantomime’s or Cornerstone Arts Centre’s website*.

The audition will involve some short games and learning a basic dance routine. Polka Dot Pantomimes are looking for potential and personality, so applicants are encouraged to do their best and have fun!

The search isn’t just for budding stars on two feet. Polka Dot Pantomimes are also looking for local pooches to join the fun, casting a Pantomime Pooch to play the Beast’s mischievous sidekick.

Dogs with obedience or agility experience who can sit, roll, bark or show off other tricks are encouraged to audition. The successful canine star(s) must be available between Wednesday 18 and Thursday 31 December and prepared for a busy panto schedule.

Owners of local dogs interested in performing on stage are invited to register their interest with more information on Cornerstone’s website.

Darren Maddison, Company Director of Polka Dot Pantomimes, said: “We absolutely love discovering fresh talent and are thrilled to bring our Beauty and the Beast auditions to Didcot. We’re hoping to meet enthusiastic young performers and some four-legged friends ready to shine on stage this Christmas. If you’ve got bags of character and love to perform, this is your moment!”

Cllr Georgina Heritage, Cabinet Member for Communities at South Oxfordshire District Council, said: “It’s wonderful that so many young people, and even pets, from across the county will have the opportunity to be part of this professional production at Cornerstone. I can’t wait to see Didcot’s young and furry stars take to the stage this Christmas!”

Beauty and the Beast will be delighting audiences of all ages at Cornerstone Arts Centre this Christmas. Tickets are on sale now via the website or in person at the Box Office.

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Note to Editors

*Their website is cornerstone-arts.org.

Any questions about the pantomime or interview requests should be sent to marketing@southandvale.gov.uk.

You can find Cornerstone Arts Centre on social media:

Facebook: @CornerstoneDidcot

Instagram: @cornerstoneartscentre

Bluesky: @cornerstonearts.bsky.social

TikTok: @cornerstonedidcot