Rating: 4.5/5
It’s as true as it can be. Disney fans will be in bliss as they watch one of the most beloved classics come alive on stage. Beauty & the Beast performed as a Broadway musical may seem like a tough feat with the surely difficult theatrics that the play would need to pull off. Fortunately, AT&T Performing Arts Center’s Winspear Opera House put on a magical show that the whole family will enjoy.
Beauty & the Beast is one of the most beautiful tales of how the beauty within prevails over any outer appearance. When Belle (Hilary Maiberger) sacrifices her own freedom in exchange for her fathers, she is forced to stay in an enchanted castle that is run by an angry and bitter Beast (Darick Pead). To ease her distress, Belle is comforted by the other unusual members of the house who happen to be a candle stick, a clock, and tea pot. Little does she know that the fate of everyone around her, including the Beast, hinge on whether or not she can fall in love with someone who looks like a monster.
Following the original Disney animated feature, this musical still contains the same script and music, but has added a few originals songs that go along with the familiar score. The new songs blended in perfectly with the story, but they were no match for the classic soundtrack we all love to sing. When “Gaston” is performed by the tavern patrons and the well-played arrogant Gaston (Tim Rogan), you might think “it doesn’t get any better than this.” The musical number is humorous, creatively choreographed, and thoroughly entertaining. But you have spoken too soon, because you have yet to witness the luminous, breath taking, work of art that is “Be Our Guest.” The song begins with the voice of Hassan Nazari-Robati, who gives a stand out performance as the hilarious talking candle stick, Lumiere. Hassan, along with the eloquent Kristin Stewart (not Twilight) who plays Mrs. Potts, lead the rest of the enchanted objects in a colorful dance that is enhanced by the vibrant set design (Stanley A. Meyer) and well produced lighting (Natasha Katz). I am delighted to know that I will surely dream about dancing plates and silverware tonight.
They could not have cast a more perfect Belle. Hilary Maiberger is no stranger to playing a Disney princess. Having played Cinderella and Jasmine in previous musicals, she handled the role of Belle with such ease, and not once did she over act her character. Her vocals are incredible, best out of the entire cast. When she sings, goose bumps appear, as well as a smile on your face. Her leading man played by Darick Pead did a fantastic job as the intimidating, yet sometimes juvenile Beast.
Beauty & the Beast the musical throws in some extra comedic moments that will only add to your laughter, and music that you will want to add to your play list. I could go on and on about this lively performance, but I’d rather you allow yourself to be a guest and take pleasure in this remarkable “tale as old as time.”
The Desolation of Smaug is far more thrilling than the last film. There is much more action, better visual effects, more interesting sub plots, and of course there are elves in this film. The only race that knows how to kick ass! The first appearance of Legolas (Orlando Bloom) returning to the big screen caused applause in the entire theater. And toward the end of the film, I wanted to applaud for any appearance of those smooth, deadly archery skills. I wish the primary focus of this movie was the elves. There was never a dull moment when they were on screen. And I must say, Evangaline Lilly fit in perfectly with the Elven clan as the heroic Tauriel, who will seemingly be caught in an interesting love triangle.
This film allows us to get to know all the characters a lot better. It was nice to see Effie as part of the Katniss team along with Peeta and Haymich. Stanley Tucci as Caasar still makes for some great comic relief. And thank you Jena Malone, who plays the blunt Johanna Mason, for continuously saying what everyone in the theater was thinking. The best thing about Jennifer Lawrence’s performance is how you could feel every emotion Katniss was feeling. Whether it was the reminder of Rue’s death, or even the love she feels for Peeta and Gale. Whatever the emotion, she nailed it and it will be the reason that you may tear up at multiple times through out the film.
Surprisingly enough, the bigger picture behind this film isn’t about love, it is about life. Through some incredibly touching moments between Tim and his father, we are shown just how important is to take time and notice the little things in life.