Beauty and the Beast: Reviewing Belmont University Musical Theatre’s Magical Production
Do you remember the year 1991 when the Disney animated film Beauty and the Beast was first released? It was an instant classic, and fans worldwide felt that this film was worth turning into a live stage musical. It was made possible with the debut Broadway run in 1994, just a year after it was tested in Houston. With a score that included all 8 songs from the movie written by Alan Menken and Howard Ashman (who tragically died during the film’s production), and an additional 6 songs by Menken and Tim Rice (who replaced Ashman as lyricist), Beauty and the Beast became a huge hit among audiences.
Following the musical’s success on Broadway, it went on tour and was performed by several theatre companies worldwide. In 2023, Belmont University Musical Theatre (BUMT), a breeding ground for future Tony Award-winners, launched their own version of Beauty and the Beast. The show was well-directed and well-acted, made even better by Nate Strasser’s musical direction and Anna Perry’s choreography.
BUMT’s rendition of Beauty and the Beast had a brilliant cast that included Noah Sowalskie as the Beast, Patrick Dunbar as Gaston, Chamberlin Little as LeFou and Josh Jordan as Lumiere. Meanwhile, Sierra Fermin and Maya Kaempf took turns playing the lead character, Belle. This production was visually stunning and world-class, providing a true theatrical experience that was a feast for the eyes and ears alike.
Maya Kaempf played Belle in the performance that was reviewed, and her performance was outstanding. Kaempf brought Belle’s character to life with ease, portraying her personality and singing the role with confidence. Her chemistry with Noah Sowalskie’s Beast was palpable, and the audience could detect their growing affection towards each other. Sowalskie gave a commanding performance, giving life to his character’s fierce charm.
Patrick Dunbar’s Gaston was the perfect characterization of the role, displaying arrogance that commanded everyone’s attention. Chamberlin Little’s LeFou was an excellent match for him. The show’s other cast members, including Delaney Carrol, Elayna Sirrine, Payton Tabb, Simon Elliott, Dylan Pearson, Maddie Heckler, Kathryn Crandall, Leah Spurlock, and Simon Strasser, all gave their best in their respective roles.
BUMT’s ensemble members who brought the show to life demonstrated their talent and passion for Music and Theatre. Their performances during the big spectacular musical numbers, including “Be Our Guest,” a stunning production, and “Gaston,” cheekily over-the-top, while Anna Perry and Nate Strasser’s choreography and musical direction provided an air of sophistication that is typical of BUMT shows.
In conclusion, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast – The Broadway Musical, directed by David Shamburger, was undoubtedly worth watching. BUMT’s production at Fisher Center for the Performing Arts, Belmont University, Nashville, was like an enchanting fairy tale, and audiences could not have asked for more. With its beautiful costume designs, professional lighting design, and top-notch audio design, this production was a feast for the eyes and ears. BUMT is proof that the future of the musical theatre industry will be bright, with musical theatre performers who are talented, passionate, and full of promise.
