Beauty and the Beast
Photos by Gavin King Photography
Review by Martine Silkstone
I have always loved watching youth theatre as there is an exciting, slightly uncontrolled energy to the shows that gives them that extra frisson of danger and possibility.
So it was with happy anticipation that I went to Theatre Royal in Bury St Edmunds last night for the latest offering from The CTC – Beauty and the Beast – and I must say they didn’t disappoint.
What fun! And quite an achievement as this was the Disney version, complete with well-known songs (plus a few new ones), big dance numbers, and the great expectations that come when a film is so well loved.
Now, I have seen a few shows from this group over the years and they never fail to bring an infectious sense of joy to proceedings, which is half the battle. When everyone on stage is having a good time, it can’t help but spill over to the audience – and I’m delighted to say that these guys are having a ball.
But, make no mistake, they are all thoroughly professional too and there is a wealth of young talent here, in the perfectly cast feature roles AND the ensemble who give the whole thing the ‘big production’ quality that this musical needs to truly come alive.
For those unfamiliar with the classic story – unlikely but possible – it follows lovely Belle, who, in an attempt to save her father, finds herself trapped in the castle of the Beast. Though, of course, he is not really a beast but a young prince under the spell of an enchantress. If he can learn to love another and earn their love in return the curse will be broken. Could this young woman be the key to his salvation? It’s a tale as old as time…
Of course, you need a perfect Belle to hold it all together, and Robyn Cable is exactly right with her sweet but feisty portrayal and crystal-clear vocals. Meanwhile, Wilfred Kemsley has presence and a gruff-but-powerful voice as the Beast, and Freddie Idehen is all smooth arrogance as his rival for Belle’s affection, Gaston.
Ethan Willets also deserves special mention for his fabulous Le Fou (my favourite character anyway to be fair), along with Harry Butcher as Lumiere and Tobias Bullock as Cogsworth – both spot on.
But how did they do Chip, you say? Pure genius that is frankly worth the ticket price alone, with Sylvie Jamieson providing all the charm.
Throw in the fabulous costumes, great choreography, and clever projections for the scenery, and you have a wonderfully entertaining show for all ages.
Yes, there were a few ‘technical’ issues on opening night - for example, when the beast turned back into the prince, Belle’s skirt fell off, which was proof of the power of his transformation, I suppose - but they all carried on like consummate professionals (impressive) and, most importantly, absolutely nailed the big numbers: Gaston, Be Our Guest, and Beauty and the Beast.
Well done all.
Note: I arrived at the theatre having lost the email with my tickets! Huge thanks to the box office attendant, Sue, who had everything under control and quickly sorted it out so this review could actually take place!
Beauty and the Beast is at Theatre Royal, Bury St Edmunds until 6 July.
FOR FULL SHOW DETAILS AND BOOKING LINK, CLICK HERE