Bonjour! Bonjour! Bonjour, bonjour, bonjour! I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again – the world NEEDS more musical theater!
Last night I had the privilege of taking my 9 year old daughter to her first Broadway play. We were blessed to attend the Broadway in Portland production of Beauty and the Beast. It was so much fun to share this experience – watching a story we’ve both come to know and love unfold before us on stage.
For all of the die-hard Disney fans, there are all of the songs that you have come to know and love from the 1991 film, and much of the dialogue is the same. You’ll watch Gaston try to woo Belle, see the cutlery come to life in “Be Our Guest” and tear up when Beast gives Belle the library.
However, added to the story in this on-stage version is the struggle and story of the household staff, slowly turning into objects. I loved hearing Lumiere and Cogsworth talk about trying to hold onto the last of their humanity. It was wonderful to have this extra glimpse into the life of the supporting players – hearing how the effects of the curse have affected them. The roles were cast perfectly, and these players brought levity, joy, and some wonderfully “punny” dialogue to the show.
The entire ensemble cast of Beauty and the Beast was amazing. The ensemble numbers are always a favorite of mine. I love watching a cast come together to create art. Favorite moments for me included the song Gaston, as well as Be Our Guest.
The crowd favorite may have been Chip, the lovable teacup, portrayed in the play by a magical and mysterious talking head. The moment Chip ran across the stage to his mother as a real boy elicited an auditorium full of “awwwww’s.” (I was sitting next to a mom with a tween son on either side of me, and both boys and my daughter asked their mom multiple times HOW Chip was just a head and/or WHERE was his body?!) The effects in this show are remarkable!
I loved the entire show, but the moment Belle stepped onto the stage wearing that yellow gown, and the song I’d been waiting for started to play….I was moved to tears. There is something so magical about seeing something beloved from your childhood played out in front of you. The chemistry between Belle and Beast was perfect – allowing the audience to completely buy into the transformation of their relationship. We as the audience were invested in their story.
Sam Hartley and Brooke Quintana sparkled on stage. From the moment Brooke stepped on stage and broke into a smile, you knew….she was meant to play Belle. Sam so wonderfully portrayed Beast’s transformation. Absolutely marvelous casting and a joy to watch. You will not be disappointed! Get your tickets and see this incredible show!
Ticket and Show Information:
Wednesday, December 2 7:30pm
Thursday, December 3 7:30pm
Friday, December 4 7:30pm
Saturday, December 5 2:00pm and 7:30pm
Sunday, December 6 1:00pm and 6:30pm
For information on ADA seating, please call the Portland Opera Box Office at 503-241-1802 or email boxoffice@portlandopera.org
Tickets can be purchased:
www.BroadwayInPortland.com
Portland Opera Box Office: 503- 241-1802 or toll free at 866-739-6737
Portland’5 Box Office: 800-273-1530, All TicketsWest locations
For additional information, visit www.BeautyAndTheBeastOnTour.com
*I received complimentary tickets to the show. Opinions my own.
