Disney’s Beauty & The Beast– Courtesy of Matthew Murphy. Used with permission.
Beauty & The Beast– Courtesy of Matthew Murphy. Used with permission.
The National Tour of Disney’s Beauty & the Beast, presented by Broadway in Indianapolis, opened Tuesday at the Murat Theatre in the Old National Centre in Indianapolis. Based on the 1991 Academy Award®-winning animated feature film, Beauty and the Beast premiered on Broadway in 1994 and still ranks as the 10th longest-running show in the industry’s history. This reimagined national tour, which brings together much of the original creative team — Alan Menken, Tim Rice, Linda Woolverton, Matt West, Ann Hould-Ward, Stanley A. Meyer, and Natasha Katz, runs through May 10
Disney;sBeauty and the Beast, directed & choreographed by Matt DisWest, features Alan Menken’s Academy Award®-winning score, songs by Alan Menken and the late Howard Ashman. The production features a book by Linda Woolverton, author of the original screenplay. Sets are by Stanley A. Meyer, costumes by Ann Hould-Ward (Tony Award® winner for Beauty and the Beast), and lighting by Natasha Katz.
Beauty & The Beast– Courtesy of Matthew Murphy. Used with permission.
The beloved stage adaptation of the classic fairy tale Beauty & The Beast centers on Belle, a bright and independent young woman, who finds herself imprisoned in a mysterious castle by a fearsome Beast. Over time, Belle discovers that the Beast is actually a prince cursed by an enchantress, and only true love can break the spell. As Belle befriends the castle’s enchanted staff and gets to know the Beast, she learns to look beyond appearances and discovers the kindness within. Through heartfelt songs and magical moments, the musical explores themes of love, acceptance, and transformation, culminating in a heartwarming conclusion where love prevails, and the curse is lifted.
The fairy-tale romance between the sweet, book-loving Belle (Kyra Belle Johnson) and her developing relationship with the volatile and tortured Beast (Fergie L. Philippe), which was the core of the story, was emotionally satisfying. Philippe brought poignant depth to the role, delivering the showstopping If I Can’t Love Her, which resonated with heartbreak and yearning. Standing out in Gaston was Stephen Mark Lukas (Gaston), the narcissistic hunk who pursues Belle. The ballroom scene in the original film, where Belle and the Beast waltz, also stood out as a memorable moment. Additionally, the visually striking and exuberant performance of Be Our Guest was another notable highlight.
Beauty & The Beast– Courtesy of Broadway in Indianapolis. Used with permission.
A ten-piece orchestra, under the direction of David Andrews Rogers, skillfully brought Alan Menken’s enchanting score to life with lush harmonies and unforgettable tunes. The story’s energy was further elevated by Matt West’s lively choreography. Additionally, visual effects ensured the performance remained engaging for audience members of all ages.
This tour production delivered a dynamic, visually captivating, and emotionally fulfilling musical experience. It is particularly well-suited for audiences seeking high-quality entertainment and family-oriented performances.
For tickets and information for Beauty & The Beast, The Musical visit indianapolis.broadway.com
