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The Mansfield University departments of Theatre and Music will present Disney’s BEAUTY & THE BEAST opening on Thursday, February 22 and running through Sunday, February 25 in Straughn Hall.
This classic love story is full of memorable songs, endearing humor and delightful characters. The MU production is designed and directed by Michael Crum, with music direction by Sheryl Monkelien and vocal coaching by Youngsuk Kim.
In keeping with the celebration of the Sesquicentennial, this production of Disney’s BEAUTY & THE BEAST will be a true collaboration between Mansfield University and the Borough of Mansfield. Mansfield Mayor Tom Wierbowski will make a cameo appearance and students from Miller Elementary School and Mansfield Junior and Senior High Schools will participate.
Over 60 Mansfield University students auditioned for roles in the show. Senior music major Sarah Best won the part of Belle. Bryan Hoover, junior music education major will portray the Beast.
The inhabitants of the enchanted castle include sophomore music education major Stefan June as the dashing love struck candelabra Lumiere, the wise and loveable teapot Mrs. Potts, portrayed by Ruthanna Williams, junior music education major, and the pompous clock played by Anthony D’Agostino, senior music major.
The story begins in a small provincial French village where a beautiful, independent girl named Belle lives with her father, the eccentric inventor. To her dismay, Belle discovers that her father is being held captive by a hideous beast. Belle agrees to trade her freedom to win her father’s release from the Beast's clutches. Once inside the enchanted castle, the colorful members of the court decide to play matchmakers. The once cold hearted Beast falls in love with Belle, but the spell that turned this handsome prince into a beast can be broken only if he can earn her love in return. And time is running out. . .
The Disney production of this charming story recently marked its 5,000 performance on Broadway and is currently the sixth longest running musical in Broadway history. The show features music by Academy Award winning composer Alan Menken, with lyrics by Howard Asher and Tim Rice.
To read a synopsis of the story, click here.
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Cast: Orchestra: Production Staff Special Thanks To... |
