Beauty and the Beast

In a triumphant Brisbane premiere at the Queensland Performing Arts Centre, audiences are transported to a world of enchantment and wonder with Disney Theatrical Group's mesmerizing production of Beauty & the Beast. Directed and choreographed by Olivier Award nominee Matt West, this rendition of the beloved classic is a testament to the timeless magic of theatre.

From the moment the curtain rises, viewers are immersed in the captivating world of Beauty & the Beast, where every detail has been meticulously crafted to perfection. Stan Meyer's scenic design effortlessly transports audiences to Belle's quaint village, while Natasha Katz's lighting design creates mood and atmosphere with every shift of colour and shadow.

The cast, led by Shubshri Kandiah as Belle and Brendan Xavier as the Beast, delivers standout performances that are both powerful and nuanced. Kandiah's exquisite vocals and emotive portrayal bring depth to Belle's character, while Xavier captures the Beast's ferocity and vulnerability with skill. Rohan Browne dazzles as the charming Lumiere, his dynamic energy lighting up the stage in every scene.

But it's not just the performances that make this production shine—it's the attention to detail that elevates it to greatness. Belle's blue dress, meticulously embroidered to look handmade, and her yellow ball gown, inspired by Elizabeth II's coronation dress, are exquisite works of art. Each petal on the gown is adorned with hundreds of crystals, pearls, and beads, adding to its breathtaking beauty.

Similarly, the costumes and makeup for the enchanted objects of the castle are nothing short of spectacular. Lumiere's flames are real, adding an extra layer of authenticity to his character, while Mrs. Potts's two spouts—one that smokes and one that doesn't—are a delightful touch. Audiences will have to look closely to spot Madame, whose headdress blends seamlessly with the decorative screen behind her.

Behind the scenes, a team of artisans works tirelessly to bring the production to life. With 119 custom wigs, each taking 14 people 40 hours to hand-knot individual hairs, the sheer dedication to craftsmanship is awe-inspiring. Brendan Xavier and his understudies undergo a transformation with hand-sculpted prosthetics created especially for them, while the Beast's 12 sets of horns ensure his imposing presence on stage.

And then there's the show-stopping production number, "Be Our Guest", which dazzles with its new tap finale featuring Lumiere, Belle, and all the enchanted objects of the castle. Illuminated by a staggering array of lights, including 660 individual globes, 804 LED bulbs, and 112 LED light boxes, the scene is a visual feast unlike any other.

Overall, Disney Theatrical Group's Beauty & the Beast is a triumph of theatricality, with its professionalism, beauty, and enchanting stage production captivating audiences of all ages. As the final notes of "Beauty and the Beast" echo through the theatre, one thing is certain: this is a production that will linger in the hearts and minds of audiences long after the curtain falls.

Mel Newton

Photographer: Daniel Boud