Don’t miss Beauty and the Beast

by Emma Ballingall Strong acting, impressive ensemble renditions and magical costumes and staging were on offer when Warragul Theatre Company opened “Beauty and the Beast” on Friday night.

First time director Liam Charleston promised a breath of fresh air, colour and “our own unique version” of the classic, and he certainly delivered.

A sprinkling of standing ovations and plenty of positive reviews greeted the 37-member cast and 17-piece orchestra across the four weekend shows.

The spectacle of the ensemble renditions highlighted the show, with pub scene “Gaston” and enchanted object led “Be Our Guest”, as favourites.

A great deal of time has gone into these complex scenes with singing, dancing and staging movements of the large cast. The use of cups in the pub scene was a great addition.

The “Mob Scene” was another strong offering by the ensemble.

The talented cast proved outstanding, particularly Emillie King as “Belle” and Dylan Jarvis as “Gaston”.

Emillie had a huge role, on stage for the majority. She effortlessly hit her notes and displayed strong acting throughout. The 21-yearold certainly has a promising future on stage.

Dylan brilliantly captured the arrogant characteristics of Gaston. He certainly endeared himself to the audience with a faultless performance.

Jordan Ignatiadis, cousin of Dylan, made his musical theatre debut as the Beast. He demonstrated his talent, particularly in the second half. Jordan, together with Emillie, delivered on their scenes together.

The enchanted objects – led by Corey Bruerton as “Lumiere”, Sam Stephens as “Cogsworth” and Esther White as “Babette” – certainly entertained via particularly strong acting and humorous interactions.

Christina Cassidy, who played “LeFou”, was another who offered a great performance.

The orchestra, led by musical director David Williams, was again faultless. It was easy to forget they were live, and the audience showed its appreciation by clapping along after interval.

Attending the Sunday matinee, the audience was a real mix of ages with plenty of children getting their first taste of theatre.

The meet and greet with the cast after matinee shows was a great addition, with “Belle” proving particularly popular.

There are four shows remaining of “Beauty and the Beast” and as word spreads, get in fast to secure your tickets.

Shows will be on Thursday at 7.30pm, Friday at 7.30pm and Saturday at 1.30pm and 7.30pm.

Tickets are $48 for adults, $43 for members, concession and groups, $40 for students, $33 for under 16s and $140 for a family of four.

For bookings, contact the WGAC box-office on 5624 2456 or visit wgac.com.au.

Right: Dylan Jarvis was a standout with a strong performance as arrogant “Gaston”. Meeting “Gaston” after the show were (from left) Thomas, Elizabeth and William McKerrow. Don’t miss the last shows this weekend, including cast meet and greet after matinee shows.

Mia Jones-Ellis dressed up as a princess to attend Warragul Theatre Company’s “Beauty and the Beast” and was thrilled to meet “Belle” played by Emillie King after the matinee show. The show certainly attracted many children, many of whom were entranced by their first theatre experience.