Disney Theatrical Group has taken the vital step of announcing the leading cast for the much-anticipated North American tour of Beauty and the Beast. The role of Belle will be portrayed by Kyra Belle Johnson, a familiar face to the touring stage, who has previously captivated audiences as Sophie in Mamma Mia!. Johnson’s impressive resume includes appearances in both film and television, such as Damned If You Do and FBI. As Belle, she is set to embody the character’s fierce intelligence, kindness, and bravery, which have endeared her to generations of fans since the original Disney animated film’s release.
Joining her will be Fergie L. Philippe as the Beast. Philippe brings a wealth of experience, having portrayed dual roles—Hercules Mulligan and James Madison—in the Broadway and national tour productions of Hamilton. He has also impressed audiences with his portrayal of Sir Sagramore in the recent Broadway revival of Camelot. With a background that includes notable television appearances in series such as The Good Fight and The Gilded Age, Philippe is poised to bring fresh depth to the Beast’s character in this reimagined iteration of Beauty and the Beast.
The Creative Team Behind the Magic
The creative team behind this revival is a blend of veteran talents and fresh perspectives. Several original members of the team are returning, ensuring that the production retains the enchanting essence that made the original Beauty and the Beast a Broadway sensation. The Tony Award-winning team includes esteemed figures such as Alan Menken, the illustrious composer responsible for the Oscar-winning film score, who collaborated with the late Howard Ashman. Tim Rice, recognized for his contributions to the stage adaptation, and Linda Woolverton, the scriptwriter who expanded the animated film into a full-length Broadway musical, will also be returning.
Matt West is set to direct and choreograph this production, infusing it with new energy and choreography while maintaining the spirit of the beloved classic. Supporting him are original designers such as Stanley A. Meyer for scenic design, Ann Hould-Ward for costumes, Natasha Katz for lighting, and Jim Steinmeyer for illusions. Their collaboration promises a visually stunning experience that honors the legacy of the show while engaging modern audiences.
Innovative Musical Enhancements
In addition to the core creative team, the revival will feature innovative musical enhancements that are designed to captivate audiences further. New dance music arrangements, created by David Chase, will reinvigorate the score, providing fresh interpretations of canonical songs. This revival, known for its commitment to musical excellence, will also include supervision and arrangements by Michael Kosarin, along with orchestrations by Danny Troob, ensuring that the musical landscape is both familiar and new to those familiar with Beauty and the Beast.
The production will also leverage cutting-edge technology to enhance the overall theater experience. Alongside an exemplary technical team, including John Shivers for sound design and Darrel Maloney for video projections, the revival aims to integrate state-of-the-art advancements that elevate storytelling on stage. With David H. Lawrence leading hair and makeup design, every aspect of this production is meticulously crafted to engage and captivate from the very first moment.
Legacy of Beauty and the Beast
Beauty and the Beast first graced the Broadway stage in 1994, following the release of the Academy Award-winning animated film in 1991. It quickly established itself as a cultural phenomenon, receiving 10 Tony Award nominations throughout its storied 13-year run. The musical achieved a prominent place among the longest-running Disney musicals in Broadway history, resonating deeply with audiences of all ages.
The revival of Beauty and the Beast aims to honor this legacy while presenting it to a new generation. With its stunning new staging and all-star cast, it is positioned to captivate those who may be experiencing the story for the first time, as well as longtime fans eager to see how this beloved tale has been reimagined. The production promises to instill the same sense of wonder that defined its predecessors, aiming to bridge the past with the future through innovative storytelling and timeless themes.
In conclusion, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast is set to enchant audiences once again. With a talented lead cast, an experienced creative team, and a commitment to innovative enhancements, this revival promises to bring the magic of Disney musicals alive for a new generation. Fans of the original production can rejoice as they witness the beloved characters return to the stage, continuing to inspire and entertain through their timeless story.
