Although the Disney musical is given a slightly darker feel by director Gary John La Rosa that emphasizes the fairy tale roots of the story, it still delivers as an eye-popping extravaganza of song, dance and incredible costumes.
Adding to the magic is actual magician David Caserta, who has devised an amazing transformation scene for the Beast as well as a clever device that makes Chip look more like a real teacup.
The set is magnificent and very effectively rotates to go from the town to the woods to the Beast’s castle.
The performances by the actors are all top notch with wonderful characterizations and great voices.
Ashley Hiester is a sweet and engaging Belle with a beautiful soprano used well in songs like “Belle,” “Home” and “Something There.” Neil Hever has a nice turn as Bell’s supportive father Maurice.
As the Beast, Alan Mendez must go through an arc in which he starts out menancing and then becomes more gentle, all while wearing a huge Beast headpiece, and he does it with aplomb, as well as with a rich voice.
Jon McHatton is an unforgettable Gaston, and has biceps to spare. The song “Gaston” is often a highlight of the show and this was no exception. Noah Sunday-Lefkowitz was funny and especially physical in the role of the put-upon lackey Lefou. Also adding to the fun are Danielle Costanzo, Maura McColgan and Elissa Wells who were a riot as the three silly girls who hang on Gaston’s every muscle flex.
In the enchanted castle scenes, Bob Farhinger is a scene stealer as Cogsworth, who is turning into a clock. He and Zachary Spiegel as Lumiere the candelabra have great chemistry and are very funny together. As Babette, the feather duster, Allison Bloechl is appropriately saucy.
“Be Our Guest” is as fantastic as you expect with a stage full of dancing cutlery, napkin can-can dancers and an acrobatic rug.
Lauren Curnow’ tremendous voice makes Mrs. Potts’ solo of the title song truly memorable. As her young son Chip, Nathaniel Rock is sweet without being too precocious.
Jenna Leigh Miller is great in the smaller role of the opera-belting Madame de la Grand Bouche.
Played especially dark, was the song “Maison des Lunes,” with Matt Gill’s Monseur d’Arque more menancing than buffoonish.
The 11-piece orchestra led by musical director by Ed Bara was flawless.
Muhenberg’s production of “Beauty and the Beast” is one that will appeal to all ages
“Beauty and the Beast” 7 p.m. Thursday to Saturday and 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, through July 1, Empie Theatre, Baker Center for the Arts, Muhlenberg College, 2400 Chew St., Allentown. Tickets: $35, $31 seniors, $20 students age 19-22 and $17 under age 18, the first weekend only; $41, $37 seniors, $24, students age 19-22 and $21 under age 18. Info: muhlenberg.edu/smt, 484-664-3333.
Photo by Avery Brunkus