Going to see Disney’s Beauty and the Beast The Musical at Altria Theater reminded me of what it is that I love about Disney — the magic, the creativity, the talent, and the feeling of home I experience when I’m immersed in that world. I think the same may have been true for the rest of audience, especially gauged by their interactions and epic standing ovations.
While we’re talking about the audience, it was great to see so many youngsters — and also some adults — dressed up as Belle and the Beast. It just shows how much people love this show.
This Show Has It All
The show has everything you want in a musical. It has adventure, thrills, love, and romance — both the romantic kind and the narcissist kind. You will smile, laugh, shed a tear, sing along, and want to boo when characters take a hateful turn. Really, what more could you ask for?
For those not familiar with this epic tale, here’s a quick summation. Belle is a bookworm who loves to read. Some people in town feel she’s a bit odd, but in reality, she is a strong woman who speaks her mind and knows what she wants — and what she doesn’t — and she doesn’t want Gaston. When her father goes missing, she tries to find him. That’s when she meets the Beast and the story really begins. I won’t elaborate because that would spoil the fun. Let’s just say, it’s pure Disney magic from start to finish.
The words spoken in the musical are the product of Linda Woolverton who wrote the book and was featured in RFM’s Just Joan recently. What a grand job she did. The offhanded wit in the show is fantastic and well played by the actors.
Top-Notch Cast
The talent in the show is extraordinaire, as Lumiere would say in his thick French accent. The acting, the singing, and the dancing — love the tap — were all in line with what I’ve come to expect from Disney — top notch.
One of my conundrums with this musical is how to single out performances for extra praise when there were so many that qualify for that mention — think, all the main characters.
Kyra Belle Johnson who plays Belle is such a breath of fresh air. She sings like an angel and is engaging from beginning to end. She gives a truly authentic performance.
Last night, the role of the Beast, usually played by Fergie Philippe, was performed by Caleb McArthur, an understudy for the role. This is his first national tour. Way to go Caleb! In watching his performance, you would think he’s played the role for years. His portrayal of the Beast, especially as he slowly changes his demeanor from rough and gruff to caring and loving, is spot on. And his voice, the icing on the cake.
Stephen Mark Lukas brings all the narcissistic glory to Gaston that you would hope for. He takes full advantage of the tongue-in-cheek moments in the show and wows the crowd.
And I have to mention Harry Francis who played Lefou, sidekick to Gaston. What an energetic and clever performance. His stamina is great.
Disney Magic
Disney has done a wonderful job of sprinkling its signature magic into the show. There are some amazing illusions — Levi Blaise Coleman who played Chip last night provides one of those moments (you might say his body wasn’t always there) and another: the transformation of the Beast.
The set is interesting and different from some traditional sets in that it includes both physical and digital assets. It definitely gives the musical an added touch. Also, I want to point out that this show includes a lot of flashing strobe lights that may be worrisome for some patrons.
If you love Disney, superb talent, a family-friendly show, and an epic romance, this is for you. Beauty and the Beast runs through Sunday, March 8 at Altria Theater. Tickets are available on the Broadway in Richmond website.
