In the world of musical theater, few shows have achieved the level of popularity that Disney’s Beauty and the Beast has. Originally released as an animated film in 1991, the story of Belle, a young woman who falls in love with a cursed prince, has taken on a life of its own, spawning numerous adaptations and stage productions.
One such production is the recent offering from Belmont University Musical Theatre, which debuted in 2023. Directed by David Shamburger and featuring a cast of talented young performers, this Beauty and the Beast is a triumph, bringing the story to life in a way that is both faithful to the original and refreshingly inventive.
Leading the cast are Noah Sowalskie as the Beast, Patrick Dunbar as the pompous Gaston, Chamberlin Little as his sidekick LeFou, and Josh Jordan as the charming Lumiere. Alternating in the role of Belle are Sierra Fermin and Maya Kaempf, both of whom deliver stunning performances. Kaempf, in particular, captures the spirit and independence of Belle, making her a truly captivating central figure.
The rest of the cast is equally impressive, with standout performances from Simon Elliott as Belle’s bumbling father Maurice, Leah Spurlock as the elegant Mrs. Potts, and Simon Strasser as her son Chip. The large ensemble brings the show to life with Anna Perry’s elaborate choreography, with notable numbers including “Be Our Guest” and “Gaston.”
Behind the scenes, the production is a marvel of design and technical excellence. Richard Davis’ lighting design illuminates the stage in ways that are both dramatic and functional, while Melissa Durmon’s costumes provide a visual feast for the audience. Nate Strasser’s musical direction is flawless, and the sound effects designed by Christopher Bangos and Ivan Sobek are top-notch.
All of these elements come together to create a production that is truly magical, capturing the enchantment and romance of the story while still feeling fresh and exciting. As the show’s run at Fisher Center for the Performing Arts at Belmont University in Nashville proves, Beauty and the Beast is a timeless classic that continues to captivate audiences of all ages.
