TheaterTheater Review

An Enchanting ‘Beauty and the Beast’ at the Woodlawn

 

Ever since the 18th century French fairy tale was first brought to life in Jean Cocteau’s magical 1946 film, La Belle et la Béte, Beauty and the Beast has been enchanting people for decades both onscreen and onstage. Now, Disney’s musical adaptation arrives at the Woodlawn Theatre in a colorful and spectacular production.

Reagan Wilson as Belle and Chris Fuglestad as the Beast in Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, now playing at the Woodlawn Theatre (Siggi Ragnar).

The characters in this familiar tale are portrayed by first-rate actors and singers, including Reagan Wilson as the brave Belle, Chris Fuglestad as the tormented Beast and Cary Farrow IV as the hilariously egotistical Gaston. They are complemented by an equally impressive cast of 24 additional performers in various roles that populate this mammoth endeavor.

With so many voices available, the musical numbers really soar, amply supported by Josh Pepper’s booming seven-piece orchestra and the fine choreography by director Christopher Rodriguez and assistant director/choreographer Kristin McGregor.

The technical specifications are equally impressive. Benjamin Grabill’s towering, modular set cleverly maneuvers to depict the many locations in the story. It’s atmospherically illuminated by lighting designer Chris Muenchow. Ben Farrar’s sound design is also effective.

It is no small feat to dress so many performers in so many elaborate costumes, but coordinator Rose Kennedy, wig designer Ron Hammett and makeup designer Brandilynn Stillwell manage it all, giving each character the requisite “Disney glow.”

Highlighted by such familiar songs as “Be Our Guest,” “Gaston” and the title number, this splendid production is ideal fare for the whole family.

Beauty and the Beast plays Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. (with an additional 2:00 p.m. show on July 13) and Sundays at 3:00 p.m. through July 28 at the Woodlawn Theatre, 1920 Fredericksburg Road. Reservations can be made by phone at (210) 267-8388 or online.

Feature photo by Siggi Ragnar.

Woodlawn Theatre Presents: Disney's Beauty and the Beast

Be our guest and experience the magic and music of Disney's Beauty and the Beast live on the Woodlawn Theatre stage. See Belle, the Beast, Gaston, Lumiere, and all of your favorite characters now through July 28th. Tickets available at https://www.woodlawntheatre.org/disneys-beauty-and-the-beast

Posted by Woodlawn Theatre on Wednesday, July 10, 2019

 

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