Review: Orlando Shakespeare Theater's BEAUTY AND THE BEAST is a Must-see for Kids of All Ages

After a week a heartache and pain in The City Beautiful, going to the theatre to see a whimsical show is exactly what the doctor ordered.

That show is BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, a new take on the classic tale being presented by Clifton Larson Allen at the Orlando Shakespeare Theatre now through July 24. Written by Brandon Roberts, the audience will recognize the original characters of the traditional fairy tale by Gabrielle-Suzanne Barbot de Villeneuve, Belle, Beast, and Papa. Roberts' tale introduces us to a new member of Belle's family, Blanche, and two workers of the enchanted kingdom, Marcel and Mrs. Granville. The new take on the classic tale keeps the same lesson, but adds much more comedy and lightheartedness.

Set in an enchanted castle in a far away land, BEAUTY AND THE BEAST spins a magical tale where a young beauty has been locked away by a terrible beast. The young woman's honest and enduring love for the unsightly Beast ultimately becomes a gift of kindness that brings magical results. The cast includes Kimmi Johnson as Belle, James Putnam as Beast, Stephen Lima as Papa/Marcel, and Kathryn Miller as Blanche/Mrs. Granville.

The casting of the show was done absolutely perfectly. Miller is hilarious in both her roles, and Johnson was an amazing Belle. Lima easily transitioned in both of his roles, and had the audiences laughing even before the show began as he "accidentally" tripped up the stairs to the stage to place down his props. Putnam brought a sense of humanity to the Beast, especially when he breaks down the fourth wall asking the audience how he should get Belle to dance with him in the ballroom. Even better was the audience involvement in the show. Before the curtain rose, Mrs. Granville and her fairy came running through the audience to find the best children to play various fairies that would move the story along. Both parents and other audience members clearly loved this addition to the show.

As I said before, after all the craziness that has happened in Orlando lately, seeing a whimsical, lighthearted show that reminds you there is still a bit of good in the world made me smile. Bravo to all involved in this production!

Performances are June 16 - July 24, 2016 on select Tuesdays through Fridays - at 10:30 a.m., select Wednesdays and Fridays - at 2 p.m., and Saturdays and Sundays - at 2 p.m. and 4:30 p.m at Orlando Shakespeare Theater in the Goldman Theater; John and Rita Lowndes Shakespeare Center, 812 East Rollins Street, Orlando, FL 32803.

Orlando Shakespeare Theater is supported by United Arts of Central Florida, host of the collaborative Campaign for the Arts. Orlando Shakespeare Theater is also sponsored in part by the Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs, the Florida Council on Arts and Culture, and the State of Florida.

Photo by Luke Evans

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