Disney’s Beauty and the Beast musical enchants audiences with its lavish production, values and timeless storytelling at Crown Perth. The latest staging, featuring Perth’s own Shubshri Kandiah in the leading role of Belle, is a triumphant celebration of theatrical artistry and nostalgia.
The musical remains true to the 1991 Academy Award winning animated film, everything from the dialogue to the costumes the show is a Broadway version of the film.
Captivating the audience in the opening scene is the unmistakable voice of the legendary late Angela Lansbury, as the narrator for the prologue. This homage to the original film sets a tone of reverence and continuity, immediately immersing the audience in the magical world of the story.
With the set design almost as a character of its own, it moves so seamlessly between all the scenes, from the French provincial town the audience are suddenly transported to the depths of the woods then to the baroque-style palace of the Beast.
The best out of all the scenes, including set design would have to be the extravagant musical number “Be Our Guest”. Leading the luminous performance is Rohabn Browne as Lumiere. The scene is a live-action kaleidoscope of the musical ensemble encompassing tap-dancing, can-can dancing, acrobats and singing topping it off with a final bang of confetti into the audience. It is truly an impressive performance which brings together all the talents needed to deliver such a spectacular show, including set design, lighting, costume, choreography, dancing and singing.
I was curious as to how the transformation from the Beast to a man would take effect. The impressive visual and sound lightening effects assisted tremendously with the transformation for a dramatic climax.
Every cast member delivers such a high level of professionalism that can only be expected from a Disney show.
Kandiah’s vocal prowess sets the show as a first-class performer, capturing both the character’s intelligence and warmth, offering a faithful interpretation of the beloved heroine.
Equally exceptional is Brendan Xavier as the brooding and tortured Beast. The chemistry between the two main characters is palpable especially in the library scene when their emotional walls are coming down.
A defining element of the show is its sumptuous live orchestration, conducted by the accomplished Luke Hunter. The orchestra’s performance is integral to the production’s success, providing both emotional depth and dynamic energy throughout the show. The finale was met with a standing ovation, and rightly so.
The attention to detail in every aspect of the production underscores Disney’s commitment to quality. Beauty and the Beast is a dazzling immersive musical experience that lingers long after the final curtain.
To book tickets to Beauty and the Beast The Musical, please visit https://www.crownperth.com.au/entertainment/crown-theatre/shows/beauty-and-the-beast.
