Disney’s Beauty and the Beast has been captivating theater audiences for over two decades. The original animated film was released in 1991, and shortly after, critics began advocating for a live stage musical adaptation. In 1994, the musical premiered on Broadway, featuring a score including all eight songs from the movie, along with additional songs by Alan Menken and Tim Rice. Despite initial mixed reviews, Beauty and the Beast went on to become a major hit and has remained a beloved and popular title in the American musical theater canon.
Belmont University Musical Theatre (BUMT), known for training some of the most talented performers in the industry, has finally presented its own production of Beauty and the Beast after 23 years of musical theater productions. Directed by David Shamburger, with musical direction by Nate Strasser and choreography by Anna Perry, BUMT’s Beauty and the Beast features a tremendously capable cast of actors who deliver a highly entertaining and wonderfully theatrical production.
The performance we reviewed featured Maya Kaempf as Belle and Noah Sowalskie as the Beast. Kaempf’s portrayal of Belle was captivating, with a spirited and independent presence that had the audience enchanted from start to finish. Her chemistry with Sowalskie was palpable, and the two characters’ growing affection for each other was readily apparent. Sowalskie gave a fiercely charming and commanding performance as the Young Prince, cursed to become a beast until he can find true and abiding love.
Patrick Dunbar gave a standout performance as Gaston, perfectly arrogant and commanding attention every time he walked on stage. Chamberlin Little’s portrayal of LeFou was delightful as Gaston’s bumbling sidekick. In addition, Sierra Fermin and Maya Kaempf alternated in the role of Belle, both delivering picture-perfect visuals and performances.
The depth of the BUMT bench of musical performers was also impressive, with Josh Jordan as Lumiere, Dylan Pearson as Cogsworth, Maddie Heckler as Babette, Kathryn Crandall as Madame de la Bouche, Leah Spurlock as Mrs. Potts, and Simon Strasser as Chip.
The large ensemble brought 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 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.
Overall, BUMT’s production of Beauty and the Beast was highly entertaining, featuring a cast of talented actors who delivered a wonderfully theatrical performance. With their skillful execution of the sumptuously appointed staging, BUMT has proven themselves as a training ground for some of the most talented performers in the industry. We can look forward to much more to come from Belmont University Musical Theatre.
