In a world where theatre is constantly evolving, there are some productions that stand the test of time. One such production is Beauty and the Beast, a classic story that has been transformed into various mediums, from animated films to musical performances. In this article, we delve into the production of Beauty and the Beast, as presented by Belmont University Musical Theatre (BUMT), featuring the talented Bradley Parrish, Chamberlin Little and Patrick Dunbar.
The History of Beauty and the Beast
Beauty and the Beast has been a beloved story for generations, with its origins dating back to the 18th century French fairy tale by Gabrielle-Suzanne Barbot de Villeneuve. The story has been retold on stage, screen, and through various adaptations, but it was the 1991 Disney animated film that truly brought the story to the mainstream audience. It was considered a groundbreaking film, as it was the first animated feature to be nominated for an Academy Award for Best Picture, and ultimately led to a successful run on Broadway in 1994.
Over the years, licensed performances of the production have become incredibly popular, with theatre companies of all sizes producing their own versions. BUMT’s production of Beauty and the Beast marks the 23rd year of musical theatre productions for this classic story.
BUMT’s Production
Directed by David Shamburger, BUMT’s Beauty and the Beast was performed at the Fisher Center for the Performing Arts situated within the Belmont University campus. The show was a huge success, entertaining the crowds that attended the four performances during the weekend of March 24-26.
The Production Team
The production would not have been possible without the talented team working behind the scenes. The musical score includes all eight songs from the animated film, with additional songs by Menken and Tim Rice. The libretto was written by Linda Woolverton, adapted from her screenplay for the Disney film, and direction was confidently handled by David Shamburger.
Nate Strasser provided superb musical direction, while Anna Perry was responsible for the spectacular choreography. The production was stage managed by Mely Berdion and Josh Fermin, who ensured the details were perfect. Richard Davis designed the lighting, and the audio and sound effects were managed by Christopher Bangos and Ivan Sobek, respectfully. Last but not least, the gorgeous costumes were designed by the talented Melissa Durmon.
The Characters
BUMT’s production of Beauty and the Beast featured a talented cast, including the likes of Bradley Parrish, Chamberlin Little, and Patrick Dunbar. Noah Sowalskie played the Beast, and Sierra Fermin and Maya Kaempf alternated in the role of Belle.
Maya Kaempf’s portrayal of Belle was utterly captivating, bringing her character to life with ease. Her chemistry with Noah Sowalskie’s Beast was palpable, with the affection between them growing throughout the production. Noah was perfectly cast, giving a charming and commanding performance as the Young Prince cursed to become a beast until he can find true love.
Patrick Dunbar’s Gaston was perfectly arrogant, ensuring all eyes are riveted to him as he struts about the stage, with his sidekick LeFou perfectly played by Chamberlin Little. Simon Elliott was winningly cast as Belle’s bumbling inventor father, Maurice, who effectively and believably conveyed the character’s age and maturity.
The remainder of the cast was equally impressive. As a bumbling Cogsworth, Dylan Pearson was perfectly unctuous, while Maddie Heckler was coquettish and alluring as Babette. Delaney Carrol, Elayna Sirrine, and Payton Tabb shone as Les Filles de la Ville, colloquially known as the “silly girls.” Kathryn Crandall impressed as Madame de la Bouche, and Leah Spurlock was every bit the elegant retainer of the household, portraying Mrs. Potts with aplomb.
The Ensemble
The large ensemble brought the show to vibrant life, with the standout moments being the big spectacular musical numbers such as “Gaston” and “Be Our Guest.” With their energy and skill onstage, the ensemble gave every indication that we have much to look forward to in future seasons with Belmont University Musical Theatre.
The Overall Production
The use of Fisher Center for the Performing Arts as the production’s stage could not have been more fitting, providing the ideal setting for the professionally produced and sumptuously appointed staging that rivalled any national touring company. Anna Perry’s elaborate choreography was beautiful and perfectly performed, while Nate Strasser’s musical direction of his 17-member orchestra lent the production an air of sophistication and professionalism that is the hallmark of BUMT shows.
The sum of all the above elements provided the audience with a visual feast that instilled a sense of wonder and enchantment that ensured the musical production transcended the stage-bound structure of the script. BUMT’s version of Beauty and the Beast offers a fresh take on the classic tale, bringing an exciting new twist for fans of the story and introducing a new generation to the magic that is this tale as old as time.
