Beauty And The Beast

We were treated to the fantasy world of Disney in E.M.T.’s delightful production of ‘Beauty And The Beast.’

The use of a well-designed video wall depicting the many varying scenes allowed the show to flow smoothly without having the many set and scene changes which can often disrupt continuity. The beauty of this too is that it created more space on stage for the large, dynamic cast to move around. Excellent lighting created the atmosphere required for each scene and enhanced the overall settings.

Because the characters in ‘Beauty And The Beast’ are so well known, audiences have expectations and this cast certainly did not disappoint.

Wallis Hamilton Carmichael was a charming Belle ably demonstrating the many sides to her character. Made to feel unsure of herself by the villagers, she conveyed real warmth in her relationship with Maurice her dad, strong independence and loathing in her reactions to Gaston’s advances and anger softening to genuine love for the Beast. With a lovely singing voice, ‘Home‘ and ‘A Change in Me‘ were both moving and sincere. A most caring Maurice was very well portrayed by David Bartholomew whose duet with Belle ‘No Matter What’ left us in no doubt about the bond between father and daughter which was maintained throughout.

Seb Schneeberger gave a fine portrayal of the Beast. His insecurities, guilt and subdued mixed emotions created a character who gained the sympathy of the audience. The very poignant ‘How Long Must This Go On’ and ‘If I Can’t Love Her’ were delivered with strength and feeling.

The villain of the piece is Gaston. Louis Delaney was perfectly cast as the macho, confident, self-important heart throb of the village. Never missing an opportunity to flex his muscles he revelled in the adoration from the swooning Les Filles played with a real ‘joie de vivre’ by Lindsay Maclaren, Elizabeth Martin and Amanda Woodhouse. We also witnessed Gaston’s contrasting disagreeable, bullying behaviour as he orders the mob of villagers to capture and kill the Beast. His two numbers ‘Gaston’ and ‘The Mob Song’ readily convinced us of his double sided character. Gaston’s side kick Lefou was played with real fun and humour by the agile Sean Vannet.

The Enchanted Servants of the Beast’s castle who have been changed into ridiculous characters were all perfectly characterised. Peter Tomassi, Lumiere, quite literally lit up the stage. Charismatic and effervescent, light footed and with a sparkling personality his ‘Be Our Guest’ surrounded by a most energetic ensemble dressed as fabulous kitchen utensils was an absolute showstopper.

Cogsworth, was brilliantly played by Andrew Hally. More subdued than Lumiere and with perfect, subtle comedic timing this was a first class performance.

Mrs. Potts is perhaps the pacifier of the household and Laura McAnna was a demure, maternal figure looking out for Belle and her son Chip. Mia Hatch, cooped up and wheeled around in a trolley, had some lovely facial expressions. The title song ‘Beauty and the Beast’ was gently song as Mrs. Potts looks on to see the love between Belle and the Beast unfolding.

The sexy, sultry seductress Babette was brought to life by the enchanting Sheona Dorrian who oozed charm which undoubtedly Lumiere found hard to resist. Sarah-Louise Donnelly, Madame La Bouche extracted all the fun from the role and we could certainly hear the high operatic voice. ‘Human Again’ sung by these characters as they anticipate a return to normality demonstrated a well-balanced blend of voices.

While this was an accomplished cast of principal characters, there was an equally strong and accomplished ensemble. Big production numbers were powerful and vibrant both vocally and also delivering the energetic varied choreography which was executed with precision and vitality. ‘Gaston’, ‘Be Our Guest’ and ‘The Mob Song’ were slick, animated and rousing. The wolves too were menacing and threatening as they prowled around the stage.

Whilst all of the costumes added colour to this spectacle, special mention must be given to Monique Crisell and Lauren McAnna who designed and made the costumes for Belle and the Enchanted Servants. They were quite amazing.

This was an imaginative, full on show which had been extremely well directed by the creative team. Non-stop action, excellent singing supported by a fine orchestra resulted in a polished production which was an absolute pleasure to attend and very much appreciated by a capacity audience.

Many congratulations to everyone involved on and off stage for making this a memorable ‘Beauty And The Beast'.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We were treated to the fantasy world of Dysney in E.M.T’s delightful production of ‘Beauty And The Beast.’

The use of a well designed video wall depicting the many varying scenes allowed the show to flow smoothly without having the many set and scene changes which can often disrupt continuity.The beauty of this too is that it created more space on stage for the large, dynamic cast to move around.. Excellent lighting created the atmosphere required for each scene and enhanced the overall settings.

Because the characters in ‘Beauty And The Beast’ are so well known, audiences have expectations and this cast certainly did not disappoint.

Wallis Hamilton Carmichael was a charming Belle ably demonstrating the many sides to her character. Made to feel unsure of herself by the villagers, she conveyed real warmth in her relationship with Maurice her dad, strong independence and loathing in her reactions to Gaston’s advances and anger softening to genuine love for the Beast. With a lovely singing voice, ‘Home ‘ and ‘A Change in Me ‘were both moving and sincere. A most caring Maurice was very well portrayed by David Bartholomew whose duet with Belle ‘No Matter What’ left us in no doubt about the bond between father and daughter which was maintained throughout.

Seb Schneeberger gave a fine portrayal of the Beast. His insecurities, guilt  and subdued mixed emotions created a character who gained the sympathy of the audience,  The very poignant ‘How Long Must This Go On’  and ‘If I Can’t Love Her’ were delivered with strength and feeling.

The villain of the piece is Gaston. Louis Delaney was perfectly cast as the macho, confident, self important heart throb of the village. Never missing an opportunity to flex his muscles he revelled in the  adoration from the swooning Les Filles played with a real ‘joie de vivre’ by Lindsay Maclaren, Elizabeth Martin and Amanda Woodhouse. We also witnessed Gaston’s contrasting disagreeable, bullying behaviour as he orders the mob of villagers to capture and kIll the Beast. His two numbers ‘Gaston’ and ‘The Mob Song’ readily convinced us of his double sided character. Gaston’s side kick Lefou  was played with real fun and humour by the  agile Sean Vannet.

The Enchanted Servants of the Beast’s castle who have been changed into ridiculous characters were all perfectly characterised. Peter Tomassi, Lumiere, quite literally lit up the stage. Charismatic and effervescent, light footed and with a sparkling personality his ‘Be Our Guest’  surrounded by a most energetic  ensemble dressed as  fabulous kitchen utensils was an absolute show stopper.

Cogsworth, was brilliantly played by Andrew Hally. More subdued than Lumiere and with perfect, subtle comedic timing this was a first class performance.

Mrs, Potts is perhaps the pacifier of the household and Laura McAnna was a demure, maternal figure looking out for Belle and her son Chip. Mia Hatch, cooped up and wheeled around in a trolley had some lovely facial expressions. The title song ‘Beauty and the Beast’ was gently song as Mrs. Potts looks on to see the love between Belle and the Beast unfolding.

The sexy, sultry seductress Babette was brought to life by the enchanting Sheona Dorrian who oozed charm which undoubtedly Lumiere found hard to resist. Sarah-Louise Donnelly, Madame La Bouche extracted all the fun from the role and we could certainly hear the high operatic voice. ‘Human Again’ sung by these characters as they anticipate  a return to normality demonstrated  a well balanced blend of voices.

While this was an accomplished cast of principal characters, there was an equally strong and accomplished ensemble. Big production numbers were powerful and vibrant both vocally and also delivering the enrgetic varied choreography which was executed with precision and vitality. ‘Gaston’, ‘Be Our Guest’ and ‘The Mob Song’ were slick , animated and rousing. The wolves too were menacing and threatening as they prowled around the stage.

Whilst all of the costumes added colour to this spectacle, special mention must be given to Monique Crisell and Lauren McAnna  who designed and made the costumes for Belle and the Enchanted Servants. They were quite amzing.

This was an imaginative, full on show  which had been extremely well directed by the creative team . Non stop action, excellent singing supported by a fine orchestra resulted in a polished production which was an absolute pleasue to attend and very much appreciated by a capacity audience.

Many congratulations to everyone involved on and off stage for making this a memorable ‘Beauty And The Beast.’

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We were treated to the fantasy world of Dysney in E.M.T’s delightful production of ‘Beauty And The Beast.’

The use of a well designed video wall depicting the many varying scenes allowed the show to flow smoothly without having the many set and scene changes which can often disrupt continuity.The beauty of this too is that it created more space on stage for the large, dynamic cast to move around.. Excellent lighting created the atmosphere required for each scene and enhanced the overall settings.

Because the characters in ‘Beauty And The Beast’ are so well known, audiences have expectations and this cast certainly did not disappoint.

Wallis Hamilton Carmichael was a charming Belle ably demonstrating the many sides to her character. Made to feel unsure of herself by the villagers, she conveyed real warmth in her relationship with Maurice her dad, strong independence and loathing in her reactions to Gaston’s advances and anger softening to genuine love for the Beast. With a lovely singing voice, ‘Home ‘ and ‘A Change in Me ‘were both moving and sincere. A most caring Maurice was very well portrayed by David Bartholomew whose duet with Belle ‘No Matter What’ left us in no doubt about the bond between father and daughter which was maintained throughout.

Seb Schneeberger gave a fine portrayal of the Beast. His insecurities, guilt  and subdued mixed emotions created a character who gained the sympathy of the audience,  The very poignant ‘How Long Must This Go On’  and ‘If I Can’t Love Her’ were delivered with strength and feeling.

The villain of the piece is Gaston. Louis Delaney was perfectly cast as the macho, confident, self important heart throb of the village. Never missing an opportunity to flex his muscles he revelled in the  adoration from the swooning Les Filles played with a real ‘joie de vivre’ by Lindsay Maclaren, Elizabeth Martin and Amanda Woodhouse. We also witnessed Gaston’s contrasting disagreeable, bullying behaviour as he orders the mob of villagers to capture and kIll the Beast. His two numbers ‘Gaston’ and ‘The Mob Song’ readily convinced us of his double sided character. Gaston’s side kick Lefou  was played with real fun and humour by the  agile Sean Vannet.

The Enchanted Servants of the Beast’s castle who have been changed into ridiculous characters were all perfectly characterised. Peter Tomassi, Lumiere, quite literally lit up the stage. Charismatic and effervescent, light footed and with a sparkling personality his ‘Be Our Guest’  surrounded by a most energetic  ensemble dressed as  fabulous kitchen utensils was an absolute show stopper.

Cogsworth, was brilliantly played by Andrew Hally. More subdued than Lumiere and with perfect, subtle comedic timing this was a first class performance.

Mrs, Potts is perhaps the pacifier of the household and Laura McAnna was a demure, maternal figure looking out for Belle and her son Chip. Mia Hatch, cooped up and wheeled around in a trolley had some lovely facial expressions. The title song ‘Beauty and the Beast’ was gently song as Mrs. Potts looks on to see the love between Belle and the Beast unfolding.

The sexy, sultry seductress Babette was brought to life by the enchanting Sheona Dorrian who oozed charm which undoubtedly Lumiere found hard to resist. Sarah-Louise Donnelly, Madame La Bouche extracted all the fun from the role and we could certainly hear the high operatic voice. ‘Human Again’ sung by these characters as they anticipate  a return to normality demonstrated  a well balanced blend of voices.

While this was an accomplished cast of principal characters, there was an equally strong and accomplished ensemble. Big production numbers were powerful and vibrant both vocally and also delivering the enrgetic varied choreography which was executed with precision and vitality. ‘Gaston’, ‘Be Our Guest’ and ‘The Mob Song’ were slick , animated and rousing. The wolves too were menacing and threatening as they prowled around the stage.

Whilst all of the costumes added colour to this spectacle, special mention must be given to Monique Crisell and Lauren McAnna  who designed and made the costumes for Belle and the Enchanted Servants. They were quite amazing.

This was an imaginative, full on show  which had been extremely well directed by the creative team . Non stop action, excellent singing supported by a fine orchestra resulted in a polished production which was an absolute pleasue to attend and very much appreciated by a capacity audience.

Many congratulations to everyone involved on and off stage for making this a memorable ‘Beauty And The Beast.’

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We were treated to the fantasy world of Dysney in E.M.T’s delightful production of ‘Beauty And The Beast.’

The use of a well designed video wall depicting the many varying scenes allowed the show to flow smoothly without having the many set and scene changes which can often disrupt continuity.The beauty of this too is that it created more space on stage for the large, dynamic cast to move around.. Excellent lighting created the atmosphere required for each scene and enhanced the overall settings.

Because the characters in ‘Beauty And The Beast’ are so well known, audiences have expectations and this cast certainly did not disappoint.

Wallis Hamilton Carmichael was a charming Belle ably demonstrating the many sides to her character. Made to feel unsure of herself by the villagers, she conveyed real warmth in her relationship with Maurice her dad, strong independence and loathing in her reactions to Gaston’s advances and anger softening to genuine love for the Beast. With a lovely singing voice, ‘Home ‘ and ‘A Change in Me ‘were both moving and sincere. A most caring Maurice was very well portrayed by David Bartholomew whose duet with Belle ‘No Matter What’ left us in no doubt about the bond between father and daughter which was maintained throughout.

Seb Schneeberger gave a fine portrayal of the Beast. His insecurities, guilt  and subdued mixed emotions created a character who gained the sympathy of the audience,  The very poignant ‘How Long Must This Go On’  and ‘If I Can’t Love Her’ were delivered with strength and feeling.

The villain of the piece is Gaston. Louis Delaney was perfectly cast as the macho, confident, self important heart throb of the village. Never missing an opportunity to flex his muscles he revelled in the  adoration from the swooning Les Filles played with a real ‘joie de vivre’ by Lindsay Maclaren, Elizabeth Martin and Amanda Woodhouse. We also witnessed Gaston’s contrasting disagreeable, bullying behaviour as he orders the mob of villagers to capture and kIll the Beast. His two numbers ‘Gaston’ and ‘The Mob Song’ readily convinced us of his double sided character. Gaston’s side kick Lefou  was played with real fun and humour by the  agile Sean Vannet.

The Enchanted Servants of the Beast’s castle who have been changed into ridiculous characters were all perfectly characterised. Peter Tomassi, Lumiere, quite literally lit up the stage. Charismatic and effervescent, light footed and with a sparkling personality his ‘Be Our Guest’  surrounded by a most energetic  ensemble dressed as  fabulous kitchen utensils was an absolute show stopper.

Cogsworth, was brilliantly played by Andrew Hally. More subdued than Lumiere and with perfect, subtle comedic timing this was a first class performance.

Mrs, Potts is perhaps the pacifier of the household and Laura McAnna was a demure, maternal figure looking out for Belle and her son Chip. Mia Hatch, cooped up and wheeled around in a trolley had some lovely facial expressions. The title song ‘Beauty and the Beast’ was gently song as Mrs. Potts looks on to see the love between Belle and the Beast unfolding.

The sexy, sultry seductress Babette was brought to life by the enchanting Sheona Dorrian who oozed charm which undoubtedly Lumiere found hard to resist. Sarah-Louise Donnelly, Madame La Bouche extracted all the fun from the role and we could certainly hear the high operatic voice. ‘Human Again’ sung by these characters as they anticipate  a return to normality demonstrated  a well balanced blend of voices.

While this was an accomplished cast of principal characters, there was an equally strong and accomplished ensemble. Big production numbers were powerful and vibrant both vocally and also delivering the enrgetic varied choreography which was executed with precision and vitality. ‘Gaston’, ‘Be Our Guest’ and ‘The Mob Song’ were slick , animated and rousing. The wolves too were menacing and threatening as they prowled around the stage.

Whilst all of the costumes added colour to this spectacle, special mention must be given to Monique Crisell and Lauren McAnna  who designed and made the costumes for Belle and the Enchanted Servants. They were quite amzing.

This was an imaginative, full on show  which had been extremely well directed by the creative team . Non stop action, excellent singing supported by a fine orchestra resulted in a polished production which was an absolute pleasue to attend and very much appreciated by a capacity audience.

Many congratulations to everyone involved on and off stage for making this a memorable ‘Beauty And The Beast.’

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We were treated to the fantasy world of Dysney in E.M.T’s delightful production of ‘Beauty And The Beast.’

The use of a well designed video wall depicting the many varying scenes allowed the show to flow smoothly without having the many set and scene changes which can often disrupt continuity.The beauty of this too is that it created more space on stage for the large, dynamic cast to move around.. Excellent lighting created the atmosphere required for each scene and enhanced the overall settings.

Because the characters in ‘Beauty And The Beast’ are so well known, audiences have expectations and this cast certainly did not disappoint.

Wallis Hamilton Carmichael was a charming Belle ably demonstrating the many sides to her character. Made to feel unsure of herself by the villagers, she conveyed real warmth in her relationship with Maurice her dad, strong independence and loathing in her reactions to Gaston’s advances and anger softening to genuine love for the Beast. With a lovely singing voice, ‘Home ‘ and ‘A Change in Me ‘were both moving and sincere. A most caring Maurice was very well portrayed by David Bartholomew whose duet with Belle ‘No Matter What’ left us in no doubt about the bond between father and daughter which was maintained throughout.

Seb Schneeberger gave a fine portrayal of the Beast. His insecurities, guilt  and subdued mixed emotions created a character who gained the sympathy of the audience,  The very poignant ‘How Long Must This Go On’  and ‘If I Can’t Love Her’ were delivered with strength and feeling.

The villain of the piece is Gaston. Louis Delaney was perfectly cast as the macho, confident, self important heart throb of the village. Never missing an opportunity to flex his muscles he revelled in the  adoration from the swooning Les Filles played with a real ‘joie de vivre’ by Lindsay Maclaren, Elizabeth Martin and Amanda Woodhouse. We also witnessed Gaston’s contrasting disagreeable, bullying behaviour as he orders the mob of villagers to capture and kIll the Beast. His two numbers ‘Gaston’ and ‘The Mob Song’ readily convinced us of his double sided character. Gaston’s side kick Lefou  was played with real fun and humour by the  agile Sean Vannet.

The Enchanted Servants of the Beast’s castle who have been changed into ridiculous characters were all perfectly characterised. Peter Tomassi, Lumiere, quite literally lit up the stage. Charismatic and effervescent, light footed and with a sparkling personality his ‘Be Our Guest’  surrounded by a most energetic  ensemble dressed as  fabulous kitchen utensils was an absolute show stopper.

Cogsworth, was brilliantly played by Andrew Hally. More subdued than Lumiere and with perfect, subtle comedic timing this was a first class performance.

Mrs, Potts is perhaps the pacifier of the household and Laura McAnna was a demure, maternal figure looking out for Belle and her son Chip. Mia Hatch, cooped up and wheeled around in a trolley had some lovely facial expressions. The title song ‘Beauty and the Beast’ was gently song as Mrs. Potts looks on to see the love between Belle and the Beast unfolding.

The sexy, sultry seductress Babette was brought to life by the enchanting Sheona Dorrian who oozed charm which undoubtedly Lumiere found hard to resist. Sarah-Louise Donnelly, Madame La Bouche extracted all the fun from the role and we could certainly hear the high operatic voice. ‘Human Again’ sung by these characters as they anticipate  a return to normality demonstrated  a well balanced blend of voices.

While this was an accomplished cast of principal characters, there was an equally strong and accomplished ensemble. Big production numbers were powerful and vibrant both vocally and also delivering the enrgetic varied choreography which was executed with precision and vitality. ‘Gaston’, ‘Be Our Guest’ and ‘The Mob Song’ were slick , animated and rousing. The wolves too were menacing and threatening as they prowled around the stage.

Whilst all of the costumes added colour to this spectacle, special mention must be given to Monique Crisell and Lauren McAnna  who designed and made the costumes for Belle and the Enchanted Servants. They were quite amzing.

This was an imaginative, full on show  which had been extremely well directed by the creative team . Non stop action, excellent singing supported by a fine orchestra resulted in a polished production which was an absolute pleasue to attend and very much appreciated by a capacity audience.

Many congratulations to everyone involved on and off stage for making this a memorable ‘Beauty And The Beast.’

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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