For the first time ever, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast the Musical has premiered in Adelaide. And what a treat it is to be a guest at a show like this! There’s truly nothing like the magic of a Disney production. Settling here in Adelaide for an almost two-month run, Beauty and the Beast can only be described as one of the most lavish and spellbinding theatrical experiences you’ll ever witness.
A staple in the Disney canon, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast became the first animated feature nominated for a Best Picture Oscar in 1991. The story follows Belle, a bright and independent young woman, as she discovers true friendship and love in the most unlikely of places: a cursed castle inhabited by a Beast.
The musical premiered on Broadway in 1994 as Disney Theatrical’s first major stage adaptation. It was an instant success, earning nine Tony nominations and one win. Bringing the Disney Broadway magic to Australian audiences is the latest production, directed and choreographed by Olivier Award nominee Matt West. With music by Alan Menken and lyrics by Howard Ashman and Tim Rice, this revival celebrates the enduring charm of one of Disney’s most iconic love stories.
Bringing Belle to life is Shubshri Kandiah. No stranger to playing a Princess, Kandiah portrays Belle with a radiant mix of intelligence and empathy. Together this forms her character’s admirable sense of self-determination. Kandiah evokes a powerful sense of relatability for anyone who has ever been misunderstood. Her vocal standout moments are ‘Home’ and ‘A Change in Me,’ sustaining show-stopping high notes, the audience in full command.
As the Beast, Brendan Xavier gives an amazing, emotionally layered performance. Initially fearsome and brooding, Xavier’s physicality and commanding presence convey the Beast’s anguish and isolation.
As the story unfolds, Xavier reveals the Beast’s tender vulnerability and deep sincerity. The audience witnesses his character’s growth with a sense of pride, particularly when he sings ‘If I Can’t Love Her.’ After watching these two characters’ journeys, I dare you not to shed a tear during their stunning wedding scene.
Probably your childhood favourites from the film, the supporting leads as the castle’s enchanted objects are also audience favourites. This star-studded group are delightful to watch. Featuring Rohan Browne as Lumiere, Gareth Jacobs as Cogsworth, Jade Westaby as Mrs Potts, Hayley Martin as Babette and Alana Turner as Madame. Together, they bring warmth and comic relief to the production. Each performer adds charm and personality to their elaborate orchestration setting up the Beast and Belle so that they too can be ‘Human Again.’
Jackson Head brings a comical exaggeration to the villainous Gaston. Thinking he is Belle’s saviour, Head captures Gaston’s hilarious narcissism, bringing this arrogant brute to life. Together with his sidekick Le Fou, played by Adam Martino, they amplify the classic stereotype of the alpha male and his bumbling sidekick. All jokes aside, their leading of ‘Gaston’ is a boisterous show-stopper. Featuring mug-slapping choreography, campy charm and a playful tongue-in-cheek tone, they mock Gaston’s self-obsession.
The ensemble members are an absolute delight to watch. In pure Disney musical fashion, you can always count on the large ensemble numbers to be extravaganzas of choreography, costuming and special effects.
A highlight for me is ‘Be Our Guest,’ an eight-minute musical extravaganza. Expect it all! From the French can-can, to tap dancing, to Rockette style kick lines, even a bird’s eye camera shot that shows a kaleidoscope of colour and shapes of the ensemble lying below. Judging by the extended audience applause that the actors had to cut short, this number is a testament to the teamwork of all involved, on and off stage.
Beauty and the Beast is a technical feat unlike anything you have ever seen before. The most lavish and grandeur sets, designed by Stanley A. Meyer, are constantly on the move between scenes. In addition, numerous unbelievable costume and character transformations will leave you in disbelief as to how they are executed in minimal time. It truly feels like you are watching a Disney film in real life.
Adding to the magic is the magnificent live orchestra, led by musical director Luke Hunter. A particularly thoughtful touch sees the orchestra continue to play subtly beneath many scenes. It weaves their mesmerising melodies throughout the action like a gentle thread. This continuous underscoring enhances the storytelling, heightening dramatic moments and gently supporting more tranquil ones, further immersing the audience in a world of whimsy and enchantment.
At the conclusion of the show, I felt like I had hit the jackpot finding the best form of escapism. Disney’s Beauty and the Beast the Musical is executed with fresh magic and unforgettable heart. With a production this enchanting, it’s impossible not to be their guest at least once!
Beauty and the Beast runs to 6 July at Festival Theatre, Adelaide Festival Centre, King William Street, Adelaide SA 5000.
Tickets: https://beautyandthebeastmusical.com.au/tickets/?city=adelaide
Website: https://beautyandthebeastmusical.com.au/
Socials: https://www.instagram.com/beautymusicalau/
Photo credits: Daniel Boud
