What a treat! It was Broadway’s best and Disney magic at its finest in Melbourne for opening night of this tale as old as time. Simply put Disney in any shape or form has always held a special place in my heart, as it does many.

Originally a French fairytale it has also been a book, an animated Disney movie (the finest old school hand drawn movie Disney ever made if I might add) and a Broadway musical that’s toured the world, I’m sure we are all familiar with the heart warming story that resonates with audiences of all ages.

This latest production revival is directed and choreographed by Matt West and also keeps the songs of legends Alan Mencken, Howard Ashman and Tim Rice, begins in such a sophisticated way, with narration by the late Angela Lansbury. Beauty and the Beast is a mesmerising visual spectacle, you’re truly sure to find yourself fully immersed in the enchanting world of happily ever afters. But before you see anything it’s what you hear that captivates your attention. The orchestration by Danny Troob and sound design by John Shivers completely shifts the atmosphere in each scene.

Stage technology has come leaps and bounds and this production dazzles with its combination of mechanical stage sets and computer animated projections, the line between the two often subtle, but enough to leave you in awe of the dazzling illusions.

The two main production numbers ‘Gaston’ (Did you know Gaston, Le Fou and the Ensemble clink their mugs over 821 times) ‘Be Our Guest’ see the success of the production peak and the opening night audience spellbound, jumping to a standing ovation at the conclusion of ‘Be Our Guest’ despite being mid act. Matt West (choreographer) alongside Natasha Katz, Jim Steinmeyer and Darrel Maloney (costumes, lighting and incredible effects) all deserve a trophy for their roles in making this number (and the show in general) a real wow moment.

Shubshri Kandiah as Belle carried the show and the tunes gracefully and touchingly. Showing why she is Australia’s perfect princess and Belle. Brendan Xavier as the Prince turned into a Beast is not quite as fierce and menacing as the character is made out to be in the movie/film. His voice is pleasant, his appearance is rugged but he is more rude than aggressive. Rohan Browne as Lumiere was my personal favourite of the night with his charm and charisma that glows on stage. He is a real smooth operator and impeccable dancer. Oh and did I mention his flames are real. I may not be looked upon favourably but I have to give my honest opinion Gaston (played on opening night by Rubin Matters) I thought was lacking. What I saw I thought was a more watered down version of Gaston. Jayde Westaby Mrs Potts is warm, motherly and a joy when she’s on stage. I adored her take on the number ‘Beauty And The Beast’ Gareth Jacobs delghts as Cogsworth, gaining laughs in his characterful role. Zanda Wilkinson brought cheer to teacup Chip, fully animating the lad with just his face on display.

Beauty And The Beast The Musical is an unforgettable experience for many and will delight audiences of all ages.

So what are you waiting for? Go on and Be There Guest Melbourne. Tickets are on sale for performances up until November 2024 with new performances on sale Thursday 4th July 2024 via http://www.beautyandthebeastmusical.com.au

x Steph