Beauty and the Beast

The Front of House team gave me and my husband a warm welcome. The packed auditorium was buzzing on this opening night’s performance of this classic tale and every seat was taken. With a talented cast, experienced performers, amazing songs, and skilled direction from Alf Rai, it promised to be an incredible production; and it was.  I was captivated by the memorable music and the high energy injected into the musical numbers. The director, Alf Rai, brought this story to life through phenomenal characterisations, imagination, precise staging, and lightning-fast scene changes. The quality and of the scenery, and props, added to the enchantment. There was clearly a level of polish and precision applied in every scene and all dialogue was well paced and sharp, ensuring this was a visionary delight and diction was crystal clear. The passion from main characters was sustained as they sang and danced, and this shone through in every scene as the story unfolded, with the enthusiasm and commitment of the entire ensemble transmitted to the appreciative, absorbing audience. The chorus was very involved, animated, and set pieces were relished with strong sounds. Robust cohesion between the director, choreographer (Lindsey Vickers) and the Musical Director (Rob Murray) secured breath taking performances showcasing individuals’ vocal talents and some impeccable timing; and confidently kept his musicians controlled under his baton throughout the performance.

Rob Murray is an experienced MD and has a commanding influence, he successfully ensured the cast was confident of the correct interpretation of the songs, melodic harmonies, and timing, and had a strong grasp of the music and performance practices.

There were a few big and bold show numbers choreographed by Lindsey Vickers and the dance sequences were a joy to watch; very slick, energetic, and visually impressive. The talented troupe of dancers was well rehearsed, technically versatile, and invigorating. Notable outstanding dance numbers were rousing which included, ‘Gaston,’ set in a tavern in Act 1 in celebration of the character, Gaston, the vain antagonist, singing about how amazing he is. It was totally high spirited and involved rhythmically clanking flagons and some very imaginative choreography. Another highlight of this show was, ‘Be Our Guest,’ which was magnificent. The combination of music and stunning costumes, with matching headwear and footwear; amazing lighting effects; and sophisticated choreography, using styles that included the Can Can, Tango and Tap. This was dazzling entertainment, so worthy of the enthusiastic applause at the close of Act 1.

Alongside the directors is Laura Leo, (Wardrobe) who deserves great credit for arranging and providing some exceptional costumes and, Josh Shewell ( lighting design and amazing effects) should be recognised too, for those ‘wow,’ moments.

Jade Dale, as Belle, played this self-assured young woman so perfectly. Her character endeared us with her immunity to Gaston’s advances and her loyalty and love for her father, Maurice (James Collins), who wandered into the woods, cornered by the Beast and held captive in the Beast’s castle; and her journey to falling in love with the Beast. Jade mesmerised us with her elegance, some awesome singing and assured stage presence, just beautiful! Daniel Haddon took the part of the Beast, the formidable and fearsome master of the castle, though he was more bad tempered than terrifying. In the second Act he revealed himself to be charmingly awkward and eager to please. Daniel was excellent in this role and delighted us with his rich commanding voice. The interactions with Belle were heartfelt and warming. Simon McGee comfortably delivered the role of Gaston with great energy. He held our attention and oozed charm with his voice and effective gestures. Will Phipps was well cast for his character of Lumiere. His every move was considered and precise for his character, portrayed with wit and charm. His rapport with the delightful Cogsworth, played by Craig Griffiths, was both entertaining, humorous, and engaging and often stole the limelight. James Totney exuded fun with every appearance as Lefou, Gaston’s side kick. In terms of physical presence on stage he was very jolly and seemed to be almost springy! He played Lefou with appropriate zest and chaotic energy and suited the part well. James Collins portrayed the part of Maurice. His performance as Belle’s father was strong and well defined. Kelly Ashman was magnificent in her role as Mrs Potts. Her voice was vocally warm and her rendition of, ’Beauty and the Beast,’ delightful. She sang with bright ardour, passion, and perfect diction. Nikki Rai was radiant in her role of Madame de La Grande Bouche and injected a sense of fun into the part. An adorable, confident performance from Lissy Brain, who appeared as Chip during this performance. She was awesome! Supportive cast members, who also delivered with conviction and worthy of mentioning include, Samantha Henry, who played Babette, Thomas Knapper, the Young Prince, and Monsieur D’arque played by Alex Jeffreys. Jess Goodwin, Louise Swann and Abbie Wild played Les Filles effectively.

This show was magical; warming and inspirational and was really a testament to all who worked so hard on it. Congratulations to Alf Rai and to all the cast and crew for immersing us all into a ‘Tale as old as Time.’

Thank you for inviting me.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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