‘Beauty and the Beast’ dazzles at Muny

By Scott Thorberg
Special to TodaysSeniorsNetwork.com

Publisher’s note: Scott Thorberg, a California native is a nationally recognized designer, artist and performer who lives in Ellisville.  He is a regular contributor to TodaysSeniorsNetwork.com

‘Beauty and the Beast’ now playing at the St. Louis Muny has set a high standard for the remainder of the 2010 season with what was a truly amazing performance—one that I believe is the best show I have seen at the venerable theatre which is America’s oldest outdoor venue.

The draw of the production, and the respect with which Midwest regional theaters have come to accord to The Muny, was evidenced by the paced audience—a  crowd estimated at 8,600—in blistering 100 degree heat.

Many in the audience were, of course, children, all of whom seemed to know the story and songs by heart.

While much of the success of the show was due in large part to the breadth of the production, the quality of the cast was superb with

James Clow and Sarah Darling in the title roles with Ken Page as Maurice, Jeb Brown as Cogsworth, Lara Teeter as Lumiere, Leslie Denniston as Mrs. Potts, Robb Sapp as Lefou, Nicholas Rodriguez as Gaston, Meg Gillentine as Babette, Abigail Friedman as Chip and Gaelen Gilliland as Madame de la Grand Bouche.

 I found Lumiere, played by Lara Teeter,  to be my favorite character with his comical wit and consistently going back into his candlestick position.  Of course,  when you put all characters into position they created a funny frenzy for the kids and adults alike.  

 Another aspect of this play that I found amazing was the choreography.  During the number "Be our Guest" there appeared to be over sixty cast members in sync with high kicks, spins, and arms flying, sometimes missing each other by only inches.  

A few members of the cast were also involved in some gymnastic moves that should have required mats, yet they all seem to land on their feet with awesome height. 

I also truly enjoyed the costumes and choice of colors that seemed to illuminate the stage without being overbearing.  The reference to kitchen utensils was executed perfectly through the use of simple props attached to the cast still allowing them to move with grace.

  Colorful, alive and full of beautiful voices accompanied by an intensely tight orchestra:  I give this play a high thumbs up. . .  and it's definitely not just for the kids.