THE PLAY: Disney’s animated musical version of the classic tale comes alive on stage.

 

THE PRODUCTION: This show’s perfect casting starts with Chauncey Trask, who beautifully embodies Belle’s spunky sweetness and enchanting charms. The entire ensemble is a joy! The honors for hilarity go to 2 duos who hit all the right comic notes: Landon Nagel & Caleb Wade (Gaston & Le Fou) and Happy Mahaney & Timothy A. Fitz-Gerald (Cogsworth & Lumiere). Director Robin Arthur’s tight direction is filled with delightful character touches, funny physical gags and a romantic heart. The sets and costumes are largely from the theatre’s original production a decade ago, but they’re still attractive. The orchestra track was occasionally too loud to hear the dialogue. Young audiences will be awed by the theatrical thrills of a big production, as well as the show’s marvelous storytelling and broad fun.

Running time: 2:25 (NOTE: Evening curtain is at 7pm to allow for early bedtimes)

 

THE POINT: Considering the “monster” success of the current movie, it’s wonderful to see that a live version can still be a wondrous delight for children and their escorts.

 

 

(5 / 5)

 

At Virginia Rep’s November Theatre thru 5/14