Beauty and the Beast Musical!!

On February 16th through the 19th, Beauty and the Beast musical was put on at Case high. On the 14th and 15th of February, there were private showings of the musicals performed for the children in the Lighted Schoolhouse program.

It was an amazing show that drew parallels between the story and real life. Cast and crew put tons of effort into the show and that was really reflected in the quality of the performance.

“The shows inspiration for me was wanting for it to have a French feel because it was originally a French fairy tale,” said Nancy Gibson.

Contrary to popular belief the musical is not based off the Disney version of Beauty and the Beast. The musical that was put on at Case was inspired by the original French fairy tale and a story book by Marie Leprince De Beaumont.

“In the Disney version of Beauty and the Beast, the Beast is made out to be a fool,” said Nancy Gibson.

There were many creative choices that were made during the creation of the production to show the audience symbols and themes. Some of these could include certain props used, clothing, or makeup. For example Tabetha Steege, who played Mrs. Potts, held her arm in a way that let the audience know that she was a teapot without wearing a giant costume.

A major symbol that was ever present in the performance was the rose. It was shown on the Beast’s jacket, and also on the blanket used to show the Beast’s transformation.

There were many lessons that were shown in the performance of Beauty and the Beast, and they were shown in many ways.

“ One of the most endearing lessons of the musical is that, the Beast’s transformation is only possible if he is willing to let go of what he is, and embrace the people around him and love himself as others see him,” said Nancy Gibson.

A character that had a large role in the show was the candlestick, Lumiere. He was the catalyst for everything that happened that led up the Beast’s transformation back into a man.

“Lumiere is the central character, brings everyone together, and brings light to the show,” said Nancy Gibson.

The show was an amazing take on the French fairy tale Beauty and the Beast. The performance was entertaining for many that have enjoyed the story, and was loved by children seeing it for the first time as well.