Schools
Disney's 'Beauty and the Beast' Comes to Life in Greendale
Greendale High School Theater presented Disney's 'Beauty and the Beast' to a nearly sold-out crowd on its opening night Friday.
Theatre kicked off its final production of the 2012 season with the Disney classic 'Beauty and the Beast'. The high school theater was transformed into a Broadway-like stage with approximately 100 people working behind the scenes, a live orchestra, first-rate custumes and a well-designed set.
One surprise was the intricate choreography of many of the dance scenes. The number where village residents praise Gaston was quite impressive with its mix of song, dance and cup-clanking with the large cast in perfect unison. Choregrapher Karl Miller, along with dance captains Mara Kuzmanovic and Megan McVann, did an outstanding job leading the large ensembles through many dance-oriented scenes.
Impressive stage designs and choreography are important, however, the most crucial element of a live production of 'Beauty and the Beast' is the casting of the main character, Belle. Kamilah Lay, a small girl with the big role of Belle, did not disappoint. Her powerful voice was in perfect pitch throughout the night while her portrayal of the innocent, but smart, Belle was annimated yet real.
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Another standout performance was that of Wil Raasch with his portrayal of Cogsworth the Clock. The timing and wit he brought to many of the clever one-liners of his role was flawless - he probably received the most laughs from the crowd.
The duo of Gaston (Nick Meythaler) and LeFou (Evan McVann) was perfectly cast. Meythaler was charismatic while McVann was funny - both did the roles of bully and sidekick very well.
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Joe Jankowski, the Beast, did a great job portaying his character's range of gruffness and sensistivity.
Other great performances included:
Peter Crapitto as Maurice
Clara Faile as Babette
Alec Lachman as Luminere
Katharine Loomis as Mrs. Potts
Rebecca Carvalho as Madame De La Gande Bouche
'Beauty and the Beast' will run March 10th at 7:30 p.m. and 11th at 2 p.m. as well as March 16th and 17th - both at 7:30 p.m.
Tickets can be purchased in advance at the school box office or at the door. Adults prices are $10 and students are $8.