Reviewed by Tony Annicone

 

Shining Light’s spring production this year is “Beauty and the Beast” by Disney. The musical first opened on Broadway on April 19, 1994 and ran for 5,464 performances, closing on July 29, 2007. It is based on the 1991 animated Disney movie, the show tells of a spell cast on a Prince which transformed him into a ferocious beast. He must love and be loved before the final petal falls from the rose or he will be a beast forever. Into his life comes beautiful, bookish Belle. They must learn to love each other after he makes her a prisoner in his desolate castle. Belle could melt the ice and even his heart but will she be able to see through his facade in time? Throw in many colorful characters including her inventor father, Maurice, the town strongman, Gaston, his crazy sidekick, Lefou and the numerous enchanted humans turned into household fixtures at the Beast’s castle and you have the makings for this sensational musical presentation. Director Mike Landry, musical director Alex Tirrell and choreographer Matthew Parello cast this show excellently, winning these hard working performers a resounding standing ovation at the end of the night.

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