Steve Hawes' stage adaptation of the traditional fairytale BEAUTY AND THE BEAST was a festive treat for residents of Hampshire, playing at the Haymarket, Basingstoke during December as part of Anvil Arts' Christmas programme.

An alternative to the plethora of pantomimes staged at this time of year, Steve's production returned to the French fairytale La Belle et la Bête for its inspiration, providing a darker version of the story than those familiar with the Disney classic may have expected. Directed by Paul Chamberlain and starring Anne Marie Piazza and Oliver Stoney in the lead roles, the production made excellent use of music, video inserts and innovative stage design to bring the story to life.

The play was well received by audiences and critics alike. The Stage commented '[Hawes] has given considerable thought to this version of Beauty and the Beast, we learn more about why Beast is the bestial creature that he is, giving a much deeper insight into the morality and folklore behind this tale.' The full review can be found here.