‘Beauty and the Beast’ is Magic

Costa Mesa, CA (News4usonline.com) – If there is a narrative that sticks by its motto, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast: The Musical does just that. From the original French fairytale to the classic a part of the Disney renaissance and originally debuting on the stage 32 years ago this is truly a tale as old as time. 

The play’s initial draw for their audience may come with some expectations of either nostalgic reminiscence or creating new memories for children who will grow to enjoy live theater. 

Although this particular rendition is much more recent the concept of Beauty and the Beast on stage is not entirely new. What this production does best is exceed any expectations beyond than one could imagine by simply elevating the musical aspect. 

My previous knowledge of this story was mostly through La Belle et la Bete (1946) and the Disney animated and live action films (1991 & 2017) so I understood that there was a special theatrical and dramatic charm, yet the stage production found a way to delve further into this allowing itself to feel like a true Broadway musical. 

The actors’ wonderful vocal ability was superb and will be discussed soon, however attention must be drawn towards the choreography and dance sequences, in the ‘Gaston’ and ‘Be Our Guest’ in particular. 

Both were already fun enjoyable songs yet through the extended dance breaks they become these once in a lifetime experiences leaving audiences in complete awe of what humans can do. ‘Gaston,’ which was led by Harry Francis, carried an old school essence almost like Jerome Robbins himself came to choreograph. 

The level of dedication to art and creativity doesn’t stop there as the dancers implement props as an extension of their bodies like it is nothing. 

All performers of this portion showcased a great level of professionalism that they should be greatly proud of; their dedication and most importantly ability to blend into one set of eight count into the next while allowing the mugs to be more than just a prop but an extension of themselves so seamlessly deserves more than a pat on the back

Of course ‘Be Our Guest’ is a fan favorite for a reason, yet I didn’t have low or high expectations for the stage version of this song only because I knew I’d enjoy it a lot.

 In real time I wasn’t questioning how it would play out after witnessing the ‘Gaston’ performance because I was able to enjoy the whole duration of the play, yet ‘Be Our Guest’ was by far the highlight of the show. 

Through genuine honesty the whole play was phenomenal as it was and this particular part of the show still exceeds everything else. 

It is not an overexaggeration when someone is speechless when asked about ‘Be Our Guest’. Those that grew up with a love for musical theater will not be disappointed and pleasantly surprised as they find themselves living a childhood dream. 

This isn’t a reference to it simply being Beauty and the Beast: The Musical, it is like travelling back in time to experience what many consider true Broadway. The show dancers remind me a lot of the Ziegfeld Girls with elaborate tap sequences taking us back to the time of vaudeville and early musical films, and costumes reminiscent of A Chorus Line.

 Much like other audience members you definitely will not tear up a bit out of pure adoration and child-like wonder after this. 

These two particular sequences are so important especially for the time we are living in currently where art and human creativity is being threatened or at least questioned.

Having at least one show such Beauty and the Beast: The Musical in the current circuit of shows on display for the public is important because it serves as a beacon of hope, a reminder of happy times, and allowing people to experience child-like wonder once again.

Part of that appeal applies to not only the previously mentioned characteristics but the act of a triple threat. Being able to witness a lead such as Kyra Belle Johnson who delivers an exceptional vocal and emotional performance of Belle but showcasing she can keep up with the ensemble dancers and adding the cherry on top with her astounding tap duet with Danny Gardner. 

We cannot talk about Beauty and the Beast without discussing the leads. The chemistry between Kyra and Devin Archer, who filled in for Fergie L. Philippe, was sweet and stellar. 

Archer’s variation of this over-time gentle giant is truly a favorite as he delves into his character’s struggles to be vulnerable and silly, something audiences may not see much of in other adaptations. 

Getting the long-awaited waltz felt like allowing myself to be a little girl again witnessing what she would consider ultimate romance and devotion. While this may be called a “tale as old as time” it is a sweet reminder of certain aspects of being human that will never expire and will continue to be cherished forever. 

This cast’s performance will certainly be the highlight of your week, perhaps even month or eventually a core memory to hold dearly.

Lead Photo/Cover Art: Kyra Belle Johnson and Fergie L. Philippe in Disney’s Beauty and the Beast. Photo by Matthew Murphy. (c) Disney