Beauty and the Beast – Gladstone Theatre

West Kirby MTC always turn out an excellent, entertaining show and after recent successes with A Christmas Carol and Betty Blue Eyes, this year they take on the well-loved story of Beauty and the Beast. It was evident that a lot of hard work and dedication had gone into this production, and we all know how much fun it is for all the participants, especially the youngest, for some of whom it may be their first performance.

This ’Tale as old as Time’ is indeed a big challenge for director Sharon Henderson, as the show demands big sets, big costumes and big musical numbers and the Gladstone theatre is far from a big stage. Sensibly they have scaled down the scenery to include back projections and minimal pieces of set. In the main this worked well as the wonderful costumes really make their own set with Mrs. Potts’ trolley (complete with chip) Cogsworth’s superb clock costume and Madame de la Grande Bouche as the wardrobe.

The nine-piece orchestra conducted by newcomer Matthew Mellor MD give a sweet, mellow and harmonious accompaniment to the very competent singers. Mellor brings a wealth of experience to the group after Rob Bowness’ retirement from his illustrious history with the company. Rob worked tirelessly over the years to achieve a high standard from both chorus and orchestra and it would now seem he has passed the baton on to another safe pair of hands. Mellor is supported by Victoria Wells (Rehearsal MD)

No doubt everyone knows the story of the prince who is put under a spell and turned into a Beast. His courtiers and servants are turned into furniture and household objects awaiting a beautiful girl to fall in love with the Beast and break the spell.

Belle (Molly Skellon) has a strong voice and looked the part well, achieving some emotional moments with both her father, the aimable Maurice (Mike Ellis) and with the Beast (Christopher Steele)  Lumiere was played confidently by Nick Hawkswell, giving a good amount of energy despite the restriction of having two candlesticks for arms.  He really found the character and as always, an excellent singer.  Cogsworth (Michael Kennedy) was a delightful old clock with his dithery fussing, having to maneuver himself on and off stage and Mrs. Potts (Joanne Poston) gave a charming character with a beautiful rendition of the song ‘Beauty and the Beast’. Little son chip was a smiley face peeking out of an enormous cup played on this occasion by Daniel Ashton. Well done for keeping still all that time!

Other soloist from the palace staff Libbie Bentley Jones (Babette) and Danielle Vernon (Bababe) doubling up as the feather duster. Tia Owen as Michelle the dressing table and Tia Gill giving a wonderful operatic character of Madame.  This main group supported each other well and were highly amusing.

The villagers were led by the self-important Garston (Andy Walker) who threw his weight around and flirted with the silly girls while still professing his love for Belle.  Lefou his sidekick, played on this occasion Harry Cockrell, was an absolute joy to watch. His physicality and commitment to the character made him the standout performance for me. I am sure bigger and better things await this young man. The Beast (Christopher Steele)  looked suitably menacing but gave us a tender and heartfelt singing voice.

This was the first night and there were a few timing issues with props and set moving on and off which will slicken as the week proceeds. I did feel the weakest part of the show was the fight between The Beast and Garston. The Mob rises up and their ‘hero’ arrives but without a chase and a bit of fight it all seemed a bit flat. It really needed to be choreographed with a bit of panache. It was a shame because the ending needed a dramatic crescendo.

The Wallasey school of Ballet choreographed by Deborah Clark added some lovely touches with dancing plates and especially the artistic reveal of the Prince at the end.  The school have some fine principals. Their only male dancer Teo Bathily is an extremely beautiful dancer and will, I am sure, levitate to the professional stage but well done to all the young people for their efforts.

The supporting company gave some strong highlights to the big numbers like Be our Guest and Gaston but as I’ve said before, a larger stage would give the movement much more room to really show off everyone’ s talents. It is so difficult these days for amateur companies to afford large venues and of course a director wants to include the whole company.

In all this was an enthusiastic cast with some strong principals supported by  good technical and backstage departments offering yet another entertaining musical for all the family.

The first night audience’s appreciation was obvious and as it runs until Saturday there’s still time to book your tickets. A lovely pre-Christmas treat!

Reviewer: Bev Clark

Reviewed: 6th November 2024

North West End UK Rating: