This tale as old as time is a treat for the entire family
When it comes to Disney, most of us expect a couple of things: a heart-warming story, humour, foot-tapping musical numbers and magic. Lots of magic. Last night’s production of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre delivered on all these counts.
This classic love story is based on the Academy Award winning animated movie and they’ve done a great job of bringing it to life. The sets were spectacular and the costumes were spot on for most of the well-known characters. Gaston (Cameron Bond) in particular – who was a joy to watch – seemed to have literally been plucked right off the screen and transported on stage.
Belle, played by Jillian Butterfield, was just the right amount of sweet and stubborn. Ryan Everett Wood as the Beast was a lot less like his cartoon-counterpart – and a lot more petulant, but he got a lot of laughs as he tried to be a gentleman. However, it was the Beast’s small band of enchanted objects/servants who really stole the show. Lively and full of quirks, Lumiere (Patrick Pevehouse), Madame de la Grande Bouche (Kelly Teal Goyette), Cogsworth (Samuel Shurtleff) and Mrs Pott (Emily Jewell) were both hilarious and endearing, and really got you emotionally invested in their plight.
The show was a bit slow starting out and first few scenes could have used a little more excitement, but by the time the iconic ‘Be our Guest’ number rolled by, the entire audience was mesmerised. With its dancing silverware, glitz and brilliant vocals, this definitely was the high point of the production.
Another highlight was the element of magic in the production – even the most hardened cynic would appreciate the sets that moved more than the staircases at Hogwarts, Chip’s head resting on a see-through cart and the Beast’s aerial transformation into a handsome Prince.
Disney’s Beauty and the Beast is a musical treat for the entire family and suitable for audiences of all ages. If you’re looking for an unforgettable family experience, look no further.
Disney’s Beauty and the Beast is on stage at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre (649 Cambie St, Vancouver) until February 8, 2015. Tickets are available online at Ticketmaster.ca. Visit vancouver.broadway.com for more information.
