In the world of musical theater, Beauty and the Beast is a timeless classic. Originally released as a Disney animated film in 1991, it quickly became popular among theater aficionados, who were eager to see it adapted for the stage. It wasn’t long before the show debuted on Broadway in 1994, and it has been a hit with audiences ever since.
Over the years, Beauty and the Beast has been adapted by theater companies of all kinds and sizes all over the world. And in 2023, at Belmont University Musical Theatre, audiences were treated to a new and exciting version of this beloved musical.
Directed by David Shamburger, with musical direction by Nate Strasser and choreography by Anna Perry, BUMT’s Beauty and the Beast boasted a talented cast of actors who performed their roles with confidence and skill. Noah Sowalskie led the cast as the Beast, delivering a fiercely charming and commanding performance, while Patrick Dunbar played the role of Gaston to perfection.
Sierra Fermin and Maya Kaempf alternated in the role of Belle, each delivering a picture-perfect portrayal of the character while singing with the confidence of genuine artists. Kaempf’s spirited and independent Belle captivated everyone in the audience with her portrayal, and her chemistry with Sowalskie’s Beast was palpable.
Chamberlin Little played the role of LeFou with just the right amount of arrogance, while Josh Jordan was terrific as Lumiere, and Dylan Pearson was perfectly unctuous as the Beast’s major domo Cogsworth. Maddie Heckler was coquettish and alluring as Babette, and Kathryn Crandall impressed as Madame de la Bouche.
Leah Spurlock was every bit the elegant retainer of the household as Mrs. Potts, and her performance of the show’s lovely title song was everything the audience could have hoped for. As her son, Chip, Simon Strasser couldn’t have been better.
The large ensemble who brought the show to life, particularly during the big spectacular musical numbers, gave every indication that we have much to look forward to in future seasons with Belmont University Musical Theatre.
Anna Perry’s elaborate choreography was beautifully performed, providing the audience with much to applaud, while Nate Strasser’s musical direction of his 17-member orchestra lent an air of sophistication and professionalism that is the hallmark of BUMT shows.
Richard Davis’ extraordinary lighting design effectively illuminated every scene, ensuring audiences could see and understand what was happening as demanded by the script, while the top-notch audio design and sound effects designed by Christopher Bangos and Ivan Sobek did the same. Melissa Durmon’s costumes were beautiful and, paired with all the other design elements, provided a visual feast throughout.
In conclusion, the 2023 production of Beauty and the Beast at Belmont University Musical Theatre was a triumph for all involved. With a talented cast, superb direction and design, and unforgettable musical numbers, it’s no wonder that this beloved classic continues to be a favorite of audiences around the world.
