KATHERINE MACALISTER talks to the stars of Creation Theatre’s new production, Beauty and the Beast.

The Beast is suitably thunderous and agitated, impatient to be off to have his terrifying costume fitted.

“The beast’s puppet head is enormous,” Beauty quickly justifies, pouring oil on troubled waters.

Which is why the pair are so beautifully cast in Creation’s latest production of Beauty and the Beast – she is all sweetness and light, while he is abrupt and terse, as it should be.

But one thing’s for sure, they are both passionate about this festive version of the children’s classic fairytale – better known as a Disney film – which is suitable for everyone from age six to 106 and is opening today in the Mirror Tent at Oxford’s Mini plant in Cowley.

John Dorney, who plays the Beast, says: “Creation has taken the story right back to its original beginnings, to feature something a bit more real, and I think people will be really surprised by it and be their own judge,” he adds.

But what of the darker subject matter? Is it going to be too scary for kids?

“No, it’s a family show, and I think it’s OK to be scared in a safe environment,” John says.

“But it’s also a very positive and exciting show with some great singing, dancing and lots of music. There really is something rather beautiful and lovely about this and I’m very excited to be a part of it.”

As for the costume, John is still getting used to it. “I have a claw for a hand, a beast’s head and a huge cloak, which takes some getting used to.”

Luckily he gets to play opposite Laura Sanchez, who plays Beauty, which must take his mind off things.

And Laura knows only too well that her character Belle is every young girl’s heroine.

“Yes, Belle is quirky, independent and feisty, but she’s also incredibly funny and self-contained, as well as being stubborn, so she’s not a pushover by any means,” Laura laughs.

“And I know every two to three-year-old girl dresses up as Belle – I remember doing the same thing as a child – but it’s not just about how she looks, it’s about her nature and how she engages with other people, and that’s what’s been so great about the role, so I want to reassure them that what they will see is something rather magical.

“It’s definitely a winter tale, full of castles and forests, which creates its own world in the tent and helps everyone forget all about the film,” she smiles.

Creation’s Beauty And The Beast is in the Mirror Tent, right, at Cowley’s Mini Plant from today until January 16. For tickets call 01865 766266 or see creationtheatre.co.uk