Beauty And The Beast

"Beauty & The Beast" by

Because I'm not around when Spotlight are performing this show over the next few days, I was invited along to be their guest at a dress rehearsal performance of the show, before opening night on Friday night.

You know the main story of Belle who is captured by The Beast who was really Prince Henri after he was not very nice to the Enchantress and it is through the love that develops between Belle and The Beast which breaks the spell. In the mean time though chaste Belle is being chased by the hunky and muscled Gustave. OK, got the story? Good, because you're going to love this show.

I've decided that I am not going to say just how marvellous every one is on stage, because I always do that, so instead I will just re iterate just how good this cast and creative team are.

Belle is played by Samantha Hedley, and let me re iterate what a beauty-ful voice she has, which is put to fantastic use in this soundtrack. This is quite a physical role and Sam literally at times, throws herself into it.

The Beast is played by Sam Barson and when I found out about both Sams taking the leads, I automatically knew that this production was going to be a big hit, which it will be. Sam, for anyone who has never heard Sam sing before, will be blown away by the absolute power of his voice. He's also really scary in Beast mode!

Gaston is played by Oliver Smith. Wonderfully arrogant, as expected, and I had half expected one of those "ting" sound effects every time Oliver flashed his molars. Great fun role delivered with just the right dollop of smarm. Gaston is a bully who likes to think he can get any girl that he wants by flexing his muscles and flashing a smile, but he has met his match with Belle.

The gorgeous Laura Thurman plays Mrs Potts. One thing that I have noticed with all of the cast members is that the casting is a perfect match for the characters. Mrs Potts is a lovable, friendly, caring and maternal person; with that said, you can see why Laura was picked for this role.

Cogsworth, the fusty old clock, is played by the equally gorgeous Joe Butler. This is Joe at her very best, especially with her facial acting and comedy skills. There is not, however, anything fusty about Joe with this sparkling character.

Lumiere is played by David Page. This is one of my favourite characters in "Beauty & The Beast", probably because of Lumiere's stylish personality, so obviously you need a stylish actor to play such a character, and we got one in David. The outfit is brilliantly sparkly, and those heeled shoes are wonderfully high, making this candelabra look even taller. Only once do those shoes leave David's feet, and that is to bring out the tap shoes, which there's a brilliant and big tap scene to accompany "Be Our Guest".

Stephanie Beara plays Babette, Luminiere's French girlfriend, showing that Disney did include saucy characters in his films. Another perfect piece of casting!

Chip is played by Emily Holder, who is balanced on a tea trolley as Chip, the delicate China cup. Emily sounds so much younger as this character and really gets into the role, and with this brilliant costume at first glance looks every inch a tea cup. It's only when you look closer that you notice the clever positioning.

Laura Ellis plays Madame de la Grande Bouche. This costume is absolutely wonderful; it's so good that, with the wig and costume combination, Laura was completely unrecognisable, but what a lovely role that oozes class.

Les Filles La Ville are played by Charlotte Barrington, Megan Leahy & Emily-Hope Wilkins. This trio are great fun, always dreaming of being Gaston's girl. They are so enamoured with this Romeo that they even agree to keeping up "rendez vous's" with him, even after he has tinkled Belle's bells! Who said Disney was just for kids?

Monsieur D'Arque is played by Shantanu Bhumbra, who also is part of the ensemble. This character is the one that Gaston has employed to get Maurice, Belle's Father, out of the picture by making the townsfolk think that he had gone a bit loopy by saying that a Beast occupied the castle.

The Young Prince is played by Abraham Collishaw, who opens the musical with a nice bit of physicality in the role, after being cursed by the Old Beggar Woman, played by Sophie Petruccio-Hall.

The voice of The Narrator is by Liam Arthur Petruccio-Hall, who we hear at the start of the show, giving us the background to how the Beast became who he was and what was needed to lift the curse. Straight away you know the history and you're ready for the action for the next couple of hours.

A lovely ensemble consisting of Hannah Haywood-Cupit, Sophie Benner, Bethany Wear, Abraham Collishaw, Lucy Horton, Tilly Wishart, Grace Collishaw, Luca Smith, Ella Swangreenwick, Claire Collishaw, Poppy Cook, Amy Flatman, Hemi Lewis, Preston Nash, Madelyn Monaghan, Daisy Donoghue, Scarlett Coleman-Smith, Harriet Hopkins, Eva Sheppard and Erin Hanby.

Directed by Amanda Hall and what Amanda doesn't know about creating a successful production and collating the perfect cast, really is not worth knowing. This is another successful production to be added to Amanda's list of hits.

Choreographed by Kristian Cunningham, and just by looking through the list of names working their magic in the Production department, guarantees that the best people are involved in this show. Kristian is renowned for getting the best out of his dancers, and that certainly shows in this show. I've always admired tap dancers because I know how difficult this particular area of dance is, but in this big tap number, they all make it look like they get out of bed tapping, it comes across as effortless and natural as that.

Musical Director is Vicky Moroziuk and when you hear the quality of this cast's individual and combined voices, the control and the power, you'll be able to appreciate the workload that has been put in by Vicky as well as the actors. The vocals epitomise the Disney sound.

Costumes by Laura Leo at Leos Theatrical Costumiers, Spotlight Theatre and Kristian Thomas Company. I've touched on a few of the costumes but every one of them are worth mentions. There's no mistaking any of the characters when you see their costumes, and that's without them saying anything.

Set Designer is Joanne Furner, and the Beast's castle is a complicated composite construction which breaks down into various other areas of the castle. The imposing entrance into the castle is up above the stage, where the rose that slowly loses its' petals is kept. From that entrance there's a three tier descending staircase to the stage. The top section also catches the light beautifully making a really colourful spectacle.

Sound design is by Rob Kettridge. I was there on Friday during the tech run through, but if the sound is as good as the tech performance, then you're in for a very special listening experience.

Lighting design is by Oliver Read

and operated by Abby Catto. This is a big job, all you need to do is take in the number of separate lights focusing on stage, but it's also a very colourful spectacle. A treat for the eyes and ears thanks to Rob, Oliver and Abby.

I said at the start that you will adore this production, and you will. It is great fun, has a brilliant cast and soundtrack, some wonderful characters and, most importantly, it has a lovely warm happy ending. And we all love a lovely warm happy end now don't we?

Last night we saw the opening performance of Spotlight Theatre’s “Beauty and the Beast”. This morning, we're heading off to London to see yet another show so this may just be the fastest turnaround of any review I have ever done.

So let’s get to it!

“Beauty and the Beast” is (surprise, surprise) the smash-hit Disney musical based on the Academy Award winning 1991 film of the same name. This tale as old as time follows our heroine Belle, a bookish outcast who stumbles across an enchanted castle filled with an eclectic bunch of talking household objects and their mysterious, monstrous master. Directed by Amanda Hall, who is also the founder of Spotlight Theatre, this version of "Beauty and the Beast" is very faithful to the original while still having some inventive and original elements that I really enjoyed.

Samantha Hedley gave a “beauty” of a performance as the feisty yet kind-hearted Belle. Samantha had a clear, strong voice that was showcased perfectly in her big solo numbers “Home” and “A Change In Me” Belle is such a familiar, beloved character but Samantha really put her own spin on the role and made it something fresh and new.

In a fun coincidence, the Beast was also played by a “Sam”, this time Sam Barson. Sam brought a lot of gravitas to the Beast’s character, being an imposing figure on stage, however he also managed to bring out the Beast’s softer, more vulnerable side as well.

Sam was another strong vocalist, and his emotional rendition of the stunning “If I Can’t Love Her” was the perfect ending to the first act of the show.

Oliver Smith was flawless as Gaston, in a way that only Gaston could be. He was a larger than life character, full of arrogance and attitude who absolutely knew how to milk the laughs out of every one of his lines. He was clearly a firm audience favourite, and his big musical numbers “Gaston” and “The Mob Song” were some of the highlights of the show.

Patrick McChrystal gave a masterclass in comedic acting as Lefou, Gaston’s bumbling sidekick. Whether perfectly delivering the punchline to a gag or throwing himself into the physical comedy, Patrick nailed every single moment he was on stage. Pure perfection - there’s really nothing more I can say.

Charlotte Barrington, Megan Leahy and Emily-Hope Wilkins were exceedingly silly and utterly fabulous as Les Filles la ville. They flitted and fluttered around the stage in perfect harmony and each really committed to the characters and provided many laughs.

The enchanted objects were a delightful bunch, and while each one gave a stellar individual performance, it was a particular treat when they were all working together.

David Page proved he is clearly a consummate showman, as the fabulously flamboyant Lumiere. He oozed stage presence and charm in every line and particularly shone in the show-stopping “Be Our Guest”. I especially enjoyed David’s chemistry and banter with Cogsworth.

Joe Butler was utterly hilarious as the uptight Cogsworth. She perfectly captured Cogsworth’s pompous attitude and mannerisms. She was another shining example of precise comic timing, never failing to land a punchline or make the audience laugh. I especially enjoyed the chemistry and banter between Lumiere and Cogsworth. Individually they were brilliant - together they were iconic!

Stephanie Beara was over the top (in the best way) as the flirty, feather-duster Babette. She really threw everything into the role, with heaps of energy and she was not afraid to be ridiculous, which really worked for this character.

The caring, motherly teapot, Mrs Potts was portrayed wonderfully by Laura Thurman. Laura had a great rapport with all of the other characters and provided a gentle, soothing contrast to the silly antics of the other enchanted objects. She also sang the classic song 'Tale as Old as Time ", which was a beautiful scene filled with Disney magic.

Laura Ellis was pure operatic perfection as Madame le Grande Bouche (literally “the lady with the big mouth”). She was so funny when reminiscing of her glory days, before the curse, and hit some seriously high notes in the group numbers like “Human Again”.

Emily Holder was simply adorable as Mrs Pott’s son/tea-cup, Chip. She performed this role so well that she actually seemed much younger than she really is, and did the whole thing precariously balanced on a tea tray. What more could you ask for?

Adam Collishaw gave a lovely, solid performance as Belle’s father, Maurice. He has some really natural comedy skills that brought this loveable character to life and provided some early comic relief in the story. He had a clear understanding of comedic timing and was a clear character of wisdom for Belle.

All other roles in the show were portrayed by the sizeable ensemble, who also joined in all of the group numbers. The ensemble had wonderful energy and enthusiasm and really worked together as a unit to bring the world of “Beauty and the Beast” to life. There were no weak links and no matter where you looked there was always something new to watch and enjoy.

Under the musical direction of Vicky Moroziuk, the ensemble produced a beautiful, rich sound. A highlight for me was the rousing finale rendition of "Tale as Old as Time", which really soared and (maybe) brought a tear to my eye.

The big, show-stopping musical numbers were when they really got to steal the limelight, especially with the exciting choreography by Kristian Cunningham. I particularly appreciated the range of different dance styles used throughout the show, all of which the ensemble handled superbly.

The use of body-doubling in the Act 2 song "Human Again", depicting the objects together with their human forms was really creative and was one of my favourite scenes in the show.

Overall, I think this was a beautiful production of a beautiful show. (And no, I make no apologies for the number of times I’ve used the word “beautiful”. The imposing, intricate set, which moved and transformed throughout the show was perfectly complemented by the moody and atmospheric use of lighting.

The fabulous costumes for principal characters and ensemble alike were vibrant, colourful and tied the whole look of the show together perfectly.

This would be a fabulous first-time theatre experience for little Disney fans, but is also a wonderfully enjoyable performance for grown-ups alike. The show is running until this Sunday and is well worth grabbing a ticket if you can, as they are selling very quickly!

Tickets are on sale through the Spotlight Theatre website

Thanks again to Amanda and the cast and creative team of "Beauty and the Beast". Wishing you a fabulous show weekend and I can't wait I see you all again at Christmas for panto time!

Beauty & The Beast

Spotlight Theatre

Squire Performing Arts Centre

August 30th 2024

What a lovely way to end the school summer holidays, being entertained by this joyous and heartwarming production from Spotlight Theatre. It’s not just children and Disney fans who will be entranced, the talented cast bring the fairy tale characters alive in a dazzling song and dance spectacle that can’t fail to bring a smile. Packed with irresistible tunes, a strong moral message, and the most romantic of happy endings, it has everything that makes Disney a sneaky pleasure for so many of us.

Belle is a bookish Beauty who yearns for a bit more adventure in her life. She gets her wish when she rescues her father from the clutches of a Beast in a forbidding castle, by taking his place as a prisoner. Turns out the Beast is a prisoner too – of a curse by an Enchantress who decided to teach him a lesson about not judging on appearances. Only true love can save him and his servants, who are still gamely performing their domestic duties while being slowly transformed into household objects. Can Belle be the one to break the spell, or will she be thwarted by the dastardly hunter Gaston, who is in hot pursuit of her, along with the angry townspeople, and determined to kill the Beast?

Samantha Hedley is the sweet but feisty Belle who sorts the Beast out while learning a few lessons of her own. Belle is on stage for most of the action and Samantha’s sensitive portrayal, never less than fully in the moment, takes the audience with her. Samantha also has a beautiful voice and really knows how to use it to express emotion; her solos Home and A Change In Me are magnificent.

Like the audience, Belle takes great delight in the warmth and fun generated by the household staff, led by Cogsworth, who is slowly turning into a clock. Played with relish by Joe Butler, this stickler for the rules obviously has a warm heart and time for everyone. Laura’s Thurman’s deliciously warm Mrs Potts brings common sense, wise words and comfort to both Belle and The Beast. Emily Holder plays her son Chip, who is literally everyone’s cup of tea: forced by the spell to perch on a tea trolley. Some lovely voice work from Emily, who could have a career in radio drama playing small boys!

Another brilliant piece of character acting from David Page as the flamboyant maître’d, Lumiere, who is condemned to life as a slowly burning candelabra. Nothing much gets on his wick though, as his free spirited nature and disregard for the rules keeps him exaggeratedly cheerful. A comic portrayal, complete with a wonderful French accent, that is an absolute delight.

More excellent character acting from Laura Ellis as Madame De La Grande Bouche, a lady in waiting who is now a dressing table, and Stephanie Beara as Babette, a fetching feather duster, who used to be a maid. The impact of all the household characters in their colourful and ingenious costumes, brought to life so engagingly, is huge. The spectacular number Be Our Guest, which is glorious, gives them a chance, alongside the supporting cast, to show they can dance and sing, too.

The supporting cast of 20 young performers don’t just add to the colour and spectacle: they are tasked with some demanding voice and movement work and they have really risen to the challenge. Choreographer Kristian Cunningham has piled on the razzle dazzle with detailed hand and footwork - including tap - that is exciting and beautiful to watch. Wow!

Musical Director Vicky Moroziuk has kept everyone on their toes too, both the solos and the group numbers are beautifully performed and perfectly balanced with the accompaniment. These songs aren’t easy and all of them require not just technical expertise, but the ability to perform them in character and with emotion; Vicky must have worked very hard with the cast to achieve this.

There are many comic highlights in this, a lot of them provided by the ghastly Gaston and his snide sidekick, LaFou. Oliver Smith is a fabulously over the top baddie, who gets every ounce of comic potential out of the character. His vain swagger, the exaggerated delivery of unashamed villainy and his knowing looks to the audience are hilarious. Patrick McChrystal gets lots of laughs too, the put upon and knocked about bumbler is aways loyal to his bullying friend and has some good ideas, but sadly – and to great comic effect - they never work. Two lovely performances.

Even the Beast gets some humorous lines, which in between the bellowing, shouting and complaining, are made full use of by Sam Barson. His powerful delivery of the Beast’s anger and anguish are nicely punctuated by hints of vulnerability and growing self awareness. Sam’s vocals are fabulous, the tortuous How Long Must This Go On? and the desperate If I Can’t Love Her are beautifully sung.

Supporting roles are played well by Adam Collishaw as Maurice, Belle’s eccentric inventor father; the spoilt young Prince is Abraham Collishaw; the mysterious old beggar woman is Sophie Petruccio-Hall; Monsieur D'Arque is played by Shantanu Bhumbra and the rich voice of the narrator belongs to Liam Petruccio-Hall. There is some delightful fan girl twittering from Charlotte Barrington, Megan Leahy & Emily-Hope Wilkins as Les Filles La Ville, who adore Gaston.

The set by designer Joanne Furner is an impressive Gothic structure that hints at the magical forest beyond and is beautifully lit with a stained glass window effect. Its versatility means it has height that takes us up to the west wing of the castle, yet it can also be adjusted to create other spaces lower down. This means a lot of work for the stage crew, especially the ‘Gargoyles’ who do some sterling work as unobtrusively as possible; a good decision to make them part of the action.

The technical team of Nigel Newton, Bronwen Webster, Rob Kettridge, Oliver Reed & Abby Catto make an immeasurable difference to this production, as the effective lighting, clear sound and efficient stage management are essential to its success.

It’s Amanda Hall as Director who pulls all this together with her usual flair, bringing us a creative, colourful and fast paced spectacle, one that is enormous fun and thoroughly entertaining. The cast and the audience last night had a ball!