When Disney’s animated film version of Beauty and the Beast was released in 1991, it quickly became a cultural phenomenon. Movie-goers and theater enthusiasts alike marveled at the story of Belle and the Beast, and it wasn’t long before the idea of a live stage musical began to generate buzz. In 1994, this idea became a reality when Beauty and the Beast made its Broadway debut, featuring a score that included all eight songs from the movie, as well as six additional songs by Alan Menken and Tim Rice.
Since its inception, Beauty and the Beast has become a staple of the American musical theater canon, proving just as potent on the road as it has on Broadway. Theater companies of all types – from professional to community to academic – have staged their own versions of the timeless story, with new generations of performers stepping into the beloved characters of Belle, the Beast, Gaston, and more.
In 2023, Belmont University Musical Theatre unveiled their own version of Beauty and the Beast, featuring a talented cast of performers who bring the story’s magic to life in vivid detail. Directed by David Shamburger and featuring superb musical direction by Nate Strasser and choreography by Anna Perry, the production is a sumptuously appointed staging that rivals any national touring company.
Sierra Fermin and Maya Kaempf alternate in the role of Belle, both delivering standout performances that capture the character’s spirit and independence. Noah Sowalskie takes on the role of the Beast, delivering a commanding and charming portrayal of the young prince cursed to become a beast until he can find true and abiding love. Patrick Dunbar perfectly embodies the arrogance of Gaston, with Chamberlin Little playing his sidekick LeFou to perfection. Delaney Carrol, Elayna Sirrine, and Payton Tabb are the “silly girls,” while Simon Elliott plays Belle’s bumbling inventor father Maurice.
The domestic staff at the Beast’s castle is equally impressive, with Josh Jordan as Lumiere, Dylan Pearson as Cogsworth, Maddie Heckler as Babette, and Kathryn Crandall as Madame de la Bouche. Leah Spurlock is every bit the elegant retainer of the household as Mrs. Potts, while Simon Strasser – the son of musical director Nate Strasser – is perfect as her son, Chip.
The large ensemble brings the show to vibrant life, particularly during the big spectacular musical numbers that make Beauty and the Beast so appealing. Anna Perry’s elaborate choreography is beautifully performed, while Nate Strasser’s musical direction of his 17-member orchestra lends an air of sophistication and professionalism that is the hallmark of BUMT shows.
From Richard Davis’ extraordinary lighting design to Christopher Bangos and Ivan Sobek’s top-notch audio design and sound effects, every aspect of the production is stunning. Melissa Durmon’s costumes are beautiful and, paired with all the other design elements, provide a visual feast throughout.
Overall, Belmont University Musical Theatre’s production of Beauty and the Beast is a must-see for theater-goers and fans of the classic story alike. This talented cast of performers brings the magic of Belle and the Beast to life with skill, heart, and an unwavering commitment to the story’s enduring message of love and redemption.
