THE Forum in Barrow will play host to a pantomime this Christmas after a limited show last year.

From December 14-29, a production of Beauty and the Beast will grace the stage and on Wednesday the performers got together for the first time.

Jamie Jones, who will play Dame Betty, said: "We're really lucky to be here and it's exciting to be back into it.

"Panto is special because it's not often these days you can get mum, dad, grandparents and kids all enjoying one thing together.

"It's a great opportunity for everyone to be involved.

"Look out Barrow!"

Mr Jones has performed in pantomime for over 10 years and designs his own costumes.

Rikki Stone, who will play Mr Potty, said: "I love doing panto. It's a great chance to be silly on stage.

"We've been building up energy for the last 18 months and we're going to put all of those reserves into the show.

"Hopefully the crowd will be the same. We feed off the crowd energy, so the more responsive they are, the better it is for everyone.

"The audiences have always been great here in Barrow."

As long as guidelines stay the same, the plan is to have every seat in the theatre filled.

However, the venue is considering physically distanced showings and other accessible events, though nothing to that end is yet confirmed.

Andrew Davison, who will play Gaston, said: "It's just incredible to be back on stage.

"People seem to be wanting to come out and put the rubbish year we had last year behind them.

"They want to see these types of shows - something pretty special and a little bit magical."

Mr Davison is a dancer, actor and singer who has toured Europe and lived in Japan, working for Universal Studios.

Olivia Winterflood, who will play Belle, said: "What's amazing for me is giving kids what is often their first theatre experience.

"We want to put on the best show possible because it can be a really formative experience for them."

Ms Winterflood performed in Kinky Boots in London's West End and appreciates the opportunity she gets to travel around.

"I probably wouldn't have come so far up north if it weren't for this.

"I love to discover new towns, audiences and hidden gems.

"We're so lucky to be paid to do this. We just want to have a great time."