Disney’s Beauty and the Beast

Under the expert direction of Jonah Thompson, Bawtry Phoenix Young Players, presented a tale as old as time production, to full audiences this week. The musical is a stage adaptation of the 1991 movie of the same name. However, the musical expands on the story and includes new songs. Jonah brought Disney World to Bawtry, and had obviously worked hard on characterisation with the cast. Emma Spencer, Choreographer, created fresh and modern routines, which complimented all abilities and the limited stage space that the venue has. The five piece band under the direction of  Musical Director, Alan Cropley, added muchto the production. I would be amiss of me not to mention the talents of Tina Witherden, Wardrobe Mistress, who almost single handedly, created wonderful costumes, that looked as if they could have come straight out of the movie. 
Alice Frogson, in her last show with the Young Players, played out heroine, Belle. Frogson showed yet again, what a talented actress she is as she took the audience along with her through Belle’s many emotions. In her first principal role with the company, Frankie Bergman played Cogsworth, the Butler, turned Clock. Bergmans created a memorable character and I’m looking forward to see what role she takes on next. Louise Singleton, portrayed everyone’s favourite Tea Pot, Mrs Potts. With a convincing cockney accent, Singleton embodied this iconic character and you could hear a pin drop during her rendition of the title song. Georgina McMillian, as Chip, pulled at all heart strings in the audience as Mrs Potts’s son, Chip. The always impressive Oliver Wood, was brilliant as Lumiere. Never once dropping his character or franchise accent, Wood once again what a talent he is. His rendition of Be Our Guest, brought the house down. It was an absolute delight to see the growth in Levi Moyes. From, Eugene in Grease to Lefou in this years production, Moyes grows in confidence and performance every year and it’s great to see. Will Tempest, as  Gaston, was ever  inch the arrogant and egotistical villain we have to come to expect with this production, displaying great acting  and vocal skills. The main principals were well supported by Tia French (Madam De La Grande Bouche), Jasmine Maw (Babette), James Bilby (Maurice), Leo Cotton (Prince Adam) and Alex Armstrong (Narrator) and a strong ensemble. 

However, for me, the night belonged to Rohan Smith as the Beast. Smith was simply captivating in this beast of a role. With a full face mask, Smith managed to convey every emotion with sound, movement and a look. His rendition of If I Can’t Love Her, was the highlight of the evening. An exceptional individual performance.

Many thanks to all who played a part in getting this wonderful show to the stage. It truly is wonderful to see talented group get better and better every year.

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