Pantomime cast celebrate on a grand fairytale stage with arms raised as sparkling pyrotechnic effects erupt on either side, framed by a castle set, starry backdrop, and colourful theatrical lighting.

Syngenta help local children experience a spellbinding trip to the pantomime

2025 December 16

For many children in Kirklees, pantomime is a magical introduction to live theatre — but not every family has the chance to enjoy it.

That’s why our partnership with Syngenta Huddersfield has become such an important part of the festive season at Lawrence Batley Theatre. Now in their 9th year of support, Syngenta and their employees continue to be at the heart of our Christmas Hero Appeal. Through the ‘Syngenta Employees Community Gift’ — a fund where staff donate directly from their salaries and the company matches every contribution — they have once again made an extraordinary difference to families in our community.

This year, Syngenta invited 370 children from eight local schools to experience the festive joy of our 2025 pantomime, Beauty and the Beast. Their support goes far beyond tickets: they arranged transport to and from the theatre and ensured every child enjoyed a special interval ice cream. Thanks to their generosity, hundreds of young people will share in the wonder, excitement and laughter of panto — an experience many would not otherwise have.

Diane Schalge, Treasurer of the Syngenta Employees Community Gift said: "Another absolutely wonderful trip to the Lawrence Batley Theatre for Beauty and the Beast, one of my personal favourites, and wasn’t it just spectacular? Oh yes it was! The Christmas Hero initiative continues to be a highlight of my year, and I’m so proud that Syngenta can play a part in creating these special memories for local children. Seeing the excitement and wonder on the children's faces as they were transported into the enchanting world of the pantomime was truly special.

I'd like to extend my heartfelt thanks to the organisers who make it possible, the dedicated theatre staff who ensured everything ran smoothly, and the talented performers who brought such energy and joy to the stage. Sign me up for next year immediately!”

Three pantomime characters pose joyfully on stage, including a performer dressed as a giant Jelly Belly jar, flanked by two performers in pink costumes, all mid-dance against a theatrical backdrop.

Cast of a festive pantomime stand across a brightly lit theatre stage taking a curtain call, with a fairytale castle set, purple and blue lighting, and a full audience visible in the foreground.

Three pantomime performers dance energetically on stage, led by a smiling man in a red cape, flanked by two performers in colourful storybook costumes, mid-movement under bright stage lighting.

Becky Dash, chief Executive of Lawrence Batley Theatre said: “Thank you to the incredible Syngenta team for once again supporting our Christmas Heroes appeal. Our mission is to ignite curiosity in young people and help shape the theatre-goers of tomorrow. Live performance builds confidence, strengthens communication skills and offers a powerful sense of belonging as young people experience stories unfolding right in front of them. It encourages empathy, teamwork and the joy of shared discovery. That’s the impact we aim to bring to our community, and with Syngenta’s invaluable support, we’re proud to open these opportunities to even more young people this year.”

There’s still time to add your support and stand alongside Syngenta in bringing joy to even more children this Christmas. A donation of £20 can give a pantomime visit for one child, including their VIP ticket, their own show programme and a free ice cream. Every donation makes a real difference to families right here in Kirklees.

So go on, give the gift of theatre. Be the Magic Be a Christmas Hero. You can donate online, at our Box Office or by cheque (made out to Lawrence Batley Theatre with “Christmas Heroes” in the memo).