Beauty and the Beast Jr

Eltham Little Theatre’s annual junior musical was Beauty and the Beast Jr and it was another successful production. There was a nice mix of younger members and others approaching adulthood.

The small stage was well used with a house being rolled on for the street scene and curtains opening to reveal the Beast’s castle. For the opening number curtains down the side of the auditorium were drawn back to reveal more villagers and stalls.

Probably the highlight was the chorus singing. As it was the junior version, there wasn’t as much harmony as I’ve heard before, but it was always confident and in tune. There was some lovely harmony singing from the servants in “Human Again”.

Belle was played by Rudy Dunston, looking gorgeous and singing beautifully. She developed a great rapport with Oliver Strauss as the Beast. His acting ability shone through as he gradually thawed in her presence.

Tenzin Fox was a strong Gaston and it was regrettable that this version was missing his main song. Maddy Coburn was a delight as his side-kick, Lefou. Being small, Gaston had no trouble throwing her around the stage, which added to the fun.

Ebony Zahra, as Mrs. Potts, did an admirable job of the title song. As the teapot, she had little puffs of steam coming out of her spout, which was most amusing. Guy McGovern was an excellent Cogsworth and Peter Gallagher a charming Lumiere, with candles for hands.

This was a delightful evening at the theatre.

Graham Ford