The story of Beauty and the Beast is one that has captured hearts and imaginations for centuries. From the classic French fairy tale to the beloved Disney animated film, the tale of love and redemption has been a favorite of audiences young and old. And in 1994, the story was brought to life on Broadway in the musical adaptation that is still captivating audiences today.
Belmont University Musical Theatre has taken up the mantle of Beauty and the Beast with a production that is nothing short of spectacular. Directed by David Shamburger, the production features an all-star cast of BUMT favorites, including Noah Sowalskie as the Beast, Patrick Dunbar as Gaston, Chamberlin Little as LeFou, and Josh Jordan as Lumiere. Sierra Fermin and Maya Kaempf alternate in the role of Belle, each delivering a stunning and captivating portrayal of the beloved heroine.
Kaempf’s Belle is spirited and independent, with an indefinable presence that captures the hearts of everyone in the audience. Her chemistry with Sowalskie’s Beast is palpable as the two characters grow to love each other throughout the show. Sowalskie himself delivers a fiercely charming and commanding performance as the Young Prince cursed to become a beast until he can find true love.
Dunbar’s Gaston is perfectly arrogant, with every eye in the audience riveted on him as he struts about the stage. Little’s LeFou is perfectly played as Gaston’s hapless sidekick. And the domestic staff of the Beast’s castle, including Jordan’s Lumiere, Dylan Pearson’s Cogsworth, Maddie Heckler’s Babette, and Kathryn Crandall’s Madame de la Bouche, all deliver top-notch performances that bring the show to vibrant life.
Anna Perry’s choreography is a visual feast, with the big musical numbers like “Be Our Guest” and “Gaston” being highlights of the show. Nate Strasser’s musical direction is sophisticated and professional, while Richard Davis’ lighting design and Christopher Bangos and Ivan Sobek’s audio design work together to create a stunningly immersive theatrical experience. And Melissa Durmon’s costumes are beautiful and immersive, transporting audiences to the magical world of Beauty and the Beast.
Belmont University Musical Theatre’s production of Beauty and the Beast is nothing short of spectacular, offering audiences a truly enchanting experience that they will never forget. With a cast and crew that are sure to become legends in their own right, this production is a must-see for fans of musical theater and anyone who loves a good story of love and redemption.
