BASILDON favourites Simon Fielding and Sophie Ladds will be returning to the stage of the Towngate Theatre this year after it was confirmed that the annual pantomime will be going ahead - all subject to any developments with the Covid pandemic.

If all goes well though, they will be starring in Beauty and The Beast.

Simon said: "We've been working hard on our version of Beauty and the Beast since January 2020 and already have a hilarious script, amazing song choices, tons of surprises and possibly the most magical Ballroom scene you could ever wish for. I know when we bring this spectacular pantomime to you this year, it will be the most beautiful and exciting production and I can't wait to be with you all again."

Family ticket discounts are worked out automatically online. For groups of 10 or more or to book tickets on School performances, please contact the Box Office on [email protected]. A ticket must be purchased for all children attending a performance of the pantomime, regardless of their age. It has always been our policy that we do not recommend bringing children under 3 to our pantomimes.

RELAXED PERFORMANCE: TUESDAY 7 DECEMBER 2021 @ 5PM

Please note that this performance will be a Relaxed Performance, which is suitable for children and adults with learning difficulties, are on the autism spectrum, or anyone who may benefit from a performance in a more relaxed environment.

This performance is open to everyone, however there will be a calmer setting for the performance and the theatre to suit the occasion. During our relaxed performance the theatre announcements will be minimal to none, the house lights will stay up at around 50% and many of the bumps and jumps throughout the performance will be edited so that the performance is accessible to all.

Information for Beauty & The Beast 2020 Bookers

All tickets previously purchased for 2020-21 have been rebooked to the closest equivalent performance in 2021-22, with the same seat(s) you originally selected upon booking.

If you have a Towngate account online, the details of your new show dates and times can be found under My Account. If you originally selected an E-Ticket, you should have already received your new tickets in your Inbox.

If you selected Collect from Box Office or Post, and do not have an online account, contact the team on [email protected] (available Mon-Fri, 10am-4pm).