- BEAUTY AND THE BEAST
- Music Hall
- Kansas City, Missouri
An incredible experience the entire family can enjoy, the fantastic Broadway touring production of “Beauty and the Beast” at the Music Hall in downtown Kansas City is nothing short of magical. From superb dance sequences to impeccable singing by the lead Kyra Belle Johnson, the show on opening night delivered everything you could want from a musical. Inspired by the 1991 Oscar-nominated animation and the 2017 Oscar-nominated live action version, which were based upon the original, 18th century tale by French novelist, Gabrielle-Suzanne Barbot de Villeneuve (1685-1755), “Beauty and the Beast” takes on a journey that begins with a curse.
A selfish prince refuses to grant shelter to an elderly beggar woman after she offers an enchanted rose for her stay. An enchantress in disguise, she teaches the prince a lesson in humility by transforming him into a hideous beast and his entire staff in household objects. If he does not find true love by the time the last petal falls from the rose, then he will live as a beast for all time while his staff will become permanent house fixtures.
Time passes and in a nearby village, Belle (Johnson), the daughter of an eccentric inventor (Kevin Ligon), dreams of what life is like beyond her home by delving into every book she can find. Her beauty gains the unwanted attention of the arrogant Gaston (Stephen Mark Lukas), who wants to make her his wife…and he won’t take no for answer. When Belle later rescues her father from the Beast (Fergie L. Philippe), and the sparks eventually begin to fly, it is Gaston who seeks out a violent confrontation with what he views as a foul creature.
“Beauty and the Beast” is punctuated by creative set and costume designs that lend a certain bedazzlement to the overall performances. Johnson’s powerful voice hits every note with sheer perfection. She shares tangible, onstage chemistry with Philippe, whose vocal talents are matched by his terrific comedic timing. Speaking of comedy, Danny Gardner as the candlestick Lumiere is nothing less than a scene stealer. On opening night, he brought the house down with a rousing rendition of “Be Our Guest”. The other cast member of note was Lukas whose presence on state was nothing less than larger than life. Overall, I cannot remember a performance where so many scenes were met with such raucous, near-standing ovation receptions. It is truly must-see theater.
“Beauty and the Beast” will run through November 2nd at the Kansas City Music Hall, located at 301 W 13th St. in Kansas City, Missouri. For ticket information, click HERE..
About the Author
