Will the accomplished Addingham Pantomime Group be able to top the heady heights of last year? Their hugely successful version of Snow White almost brought the village to a standstill last February half-term and duly picked up seven awards at the Wharfedale Festival of Theatre, in the company’s debut year in the competition.

From the evidence of the performance I witnessed, I think they will. This is a charming and colourful rendition of the Beauty and the Beast adventure. Long serving co-director Vickie Burns is not one to rest on her laurels, and together with successful Addingham Drama Group director Carole Baker; has assembled a fabulous team of actors and crew.

Angi Clarke portrays a superb baddie. Her impressive lightning emblazoned costume striking fear wherever she chooses to strut. The villagers are assisted in their struggle by the kind Fairy Grace, a silver vision of wholesome goodness, done to a turn by the ever polished Jane Ison.

The comedy soon abounds in the shape of the restaurant table staff Manuel and Cecile played by married duo Andy and Vickie Burns. Their comedy timing is exquisite and is heightened by their impeccable delivery of accents, from either side of the Pyrenees. One can't move on without a mention of their renowned singing skills. Their songs are truly stunning.

Fat Sam, the larger than life restaurateur played by the delightfully ebullient Paul Jennings, makes the biggest entrance of all! He is backed by the talented and remarkably well turned out junior chorus. The smallest member of the cast young Xander Clarke, also stars, as he handles being manhandled with cute aplomb.

Fat Sam’s daughters are Belle and Kelle played by Lauren and Eleanor Ellis. Belle is sweetness and beauty personified and Lauren builds on her show stealing performance of last year. Kelle is almost as beautiful. A red-headed temptress who has you in stitches as she goes about her perpetual quest for a man (with a big wallet!). Eleanor is a renowned comedy actress, who never fails to deliver!

We have to wait a while for the appearance of Dame Ella, but it’s worth the wait. Local rock drummer Colin Waterman looks remarkably up with the beat for a man who claims to have little experience of female attire. He drops into character quite naturally and soon starts delivering some great one liners.

Jasper the Principal Boy rides into town and immediately makes a big impression. Sabi Robinson looks fabulous in this role and manages to master the subtleties of a part not written in the conventional way. Sabi balances all this perfectly. Jasper is ably assisted by his trusty assistant Frederick. Will Coates gives a solid mature performance, and is a name to watch out for in the future.

The comedy duo of Stan Dupp and Ben Down (played by newcomer Charles Arrowsmith and Rory Stead), bound about the stage with endless dumb enthusiasm. They get their wrongs just right.

The Beast is finally sighted deep into Act 2. What a cameo this turns out to be from another newcomer Richard Vaughan. Addingham Pantomime Group can be very proud of its efforts once again. The scenery, lighting, sound, costumes and make up seem to be of an even higher standard this year, and add significantly to the overall experience. The choice and delivery of songs is again exemplary and the performances of the junior chorus get better each year. A particular mention for Katie Doherty as the Wise Old Owl. The final number is a foot tapping and clapping triumph. My feet are still tapping 24 hours later! Don't miss it! If you can get a ticket!