Disney’s Beauty and the Beast
South Hill Park,
Bracknell
01344 484123
Tuesday, April 9-Sunday, April 14
AN EASTER treat came to The Wilde Theatre in Bracknell last week, courtesy of a Disney favourite.
The ‘tale as old as time’ saw a talented cast and crew from across the region team up to perform a holiday spectacular.
Based on the Broadway musical version, it was, simply, a triumph – from the cleverly-projected opening credits and the explosion of colour in the opening song, the audience were transfixed.
It was a combination of the well-known and loved songs from the movie with the addition of additional songs including those between Belle and her father affirming their close relationship and by the Beast as he reflects on his fate.
Double-act Stuart Hayllor as Gaston and Joseph Hannay as Lefou brought their own take to the relationship between the conceited womaniser and his sycophantic side-kick, particularly in the high-energy song Gaston, which has him literally swinging from the rafters.
Another addition to the film version is extended dance sequences, described by choreographer Luke Robinson as ‘relentless but spectacular’.
Choreographer Holly Hermon adds that many different styles of dance are incorporated including ballet, tap, waltz, tango, jazz and more.
The rich baritone voice of Sam Gillett as the Beast and the sweet tones of Bethany Nicholls as Belle further help bring their different characters to life and the beautifully nuanced body language they exhibit as their relationship deepens.
The transformation of the Beast at the end brought a tear to many an eye.
Perfect casting of the household servants meant the comic timings of Keir Buist as Lumiere and Gordon Cowell as Cogsworth, the lovely rapport between Mrs Potts (Amy Cowie) and Chip (Grace King/Sophie Misselbrook) added depth to the proceedings.
Every character stole the show in their own way, from the ‘Silly Girls’ who trailed, doe-eyed, after Gaston to the dancing troupe which whirled and leapt their way through the chorus numbers.
Many little touches and details were added to additional delight, including the dancing cutlery in the background during the extended version of Be Our Guest.
The only minor criticism would be that the enchanted rose which takes centre stage never actually loses any of its petals.
Somehow managing to create this effect would have added to the poignancy of the Beast setting Belle free and the household staff having their hopes dashed.
With such professional shows being staged so close to home, why make an expensive trip to the West End when we have such talent right on our doorstep? SHP productions are shows not to be missed.
JUDITH CREIGHTON
