THE Wardens’ annual pantomime starts this week and this year the group presents the popular classic, Beauty and the Beast.

The story begins when an enchantress, disguised as an old woman, tries to take shelter from a storm. She begs the prince to let her into his castle, but he is vain and arrogant and refuses to help someone he thinks is an ugly, old woman.

When the enchantress reveals her true identity, the prince invites her inside, but it is too late. As a punishment for his cruelty, he is turned into a hideous beast.

Only true love can save the Beast, who is played by Alex Neil. His love interest, Belle, is played by Hannah Priestley.

Ioan Guile is her father, Professor Nutty; Marcus Dobson is the comic, Willie, and Angus Marshall is Gassbag.

The prince’s servants, who also fall under the spell and find themselves turned into objects, are played by Carl Ryan (Monsieur Chandelle), Theresa Jones (Madame Garde-Robe), Thomas Mutton (Tick Tock) and Madame Pot de Te (Julie McNicholls Vale).

Fairy Rosebud is Donna Richards and the villain, Fleshcreep, is played by Kedma Macias.

Dame Cherie Trifle is played by Richard Cheshire, who also directs.

Richard says there is something for everyone to enjoy in this traditional tale with a pantomime twist.

He said: “Beauty and The Beast is a magical, joyous pantomime, a real festive treat for all the family. There are spectacular effects, stunning sets and the Enchanted’s costumes were recently seen on Strictly Come Dancing.

“People can expect to see a traditional pantomime full of slapstick, great comedy routines and lots of surprises. Tickets are selling fast.”

Elinor Powell returns as musical director and Laura Smith is the choreographer.

Beauty and The Beast is on at Aberystwyth Arts Centre from 8 to 23 January at 7.30pm (not Mondays and Tuesdays) and there are matinees on Saturdays and Sundays.