Beauty And The Beast

This was the group’s 40th anniversary with a cast of juniors under sixteen years old and only one adult of 20 years of age!!!

The storyline here was not so familiar to the audience of this well known tale but a rousing opening musical number introduced the cast of very inventive characters to the audience straight away.  Felix the family poodle played by Rohan Banks-Hawley had a very convincing French accent throughout and immediately endeared himself to the appreciative audience.  The character of Jacques was also well portrayed by Angus Macfarlane with Charlie Allen an able Capucine and Roxy Hill as Aimee as the other children.  Of course, every show needs a good baddie and Aisha Tomlinson as Malabelle was just that.  The lead roles were nicely played by Joanne Lees as Beauty and Anna Bruce playing the double role as the Prince/Beast.  But Ma (Megan Craig) was the glue which held the production together.  The set, despite the confines of the small stage, was atmospheric and well built and painted by the in-house team.  Beauty’s bedroom being particularly impressive.  The “furniture” therein provided a lot of fun throughout especially Rory Agnew as the Talking Clock along with Chest Of Drawers (Toni Martin), Lamp (Kate Millar), Table (Sophie Veitch), Rug (Stephen Langdon-Perry). Backing tracks for the singing did provide a challenge for the company with a couple of timing issues which did detract a little from the performance.  The principals were well supported by the chorus and the enthusiastic audience enjoyed a good night of live entertainment.  A real community affair.

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.