“Beauty and the Beast” is a beloved classic cherished by families across the globe. However, this new adaptation offers plenty of twists, new characters, and fresh plots, taking us on an entirely new spin of the well-known production.
The cast was extraordinarily talented, not only acting, singing, and dancing but also providing the melodies for the show using various instruments, from guitars and accordions to even the small triangle. Each cast member’s musical contributions enriched the performance, adding a unique charm for this whacky adventure.
The story began by immersing us in the familiar tale of Beauty and the Beast. However, the Beast’s character development felt lacking. He was immediately kind to Belle and, besides instructing her to clean, did not exhibit the loud or frightening traits one might expect from the Beast.
Coco and Hugo, the dynamic evil villains, one with the whit, scheme and manipulation techniques whilst the other that did not seem to have a clue what was going on, shone brightly together. Their comedic timing and interactions brought the narrative to life, and they ensured that the scheme was easy to understand and follow for young children. They had a great few solos and dances with contemporary references like “hashtag blessed” which added a modern twist to their scheming.
The story’s flow was brisk, filled with numerous songs and musical interludes. Audience participation was also a highlight, with Belle frequently engaging the crowd for help or guidance.
Unfortunately, the costumes did not match the high performance level of the actors. The wedding scene, in particular, was disappointing as the characters remained in their village clothes instead of donning extravagant ball gowns. A nod to the iconic Disney Belle dress would have been appreciated, but again this was not a Disney production. The Beast’s costume was also underwhelming, with only a simple mask to distinguish him.
Overall, this production was a fun and whimsical show, superbly acted by the cast. It was perfect for children, with references to a beloved childhood princess, but it diverged significantly from the Disney movie and did not aim to replicate it. This adaptation was enjoyable for families, though a more developed character arc for the Beast and more impressive costumes would have enhanced the experience.
Despite these minor shortcomings, the unique twist on the tale and the delightful performances by the musicians and actors make this a worthwhile outing for the family this summer.
Reviewer: Zain Russell
Reviewed: 7th August 2024
North West End UK Rating:
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