Debut of Beauty and the Beast at Theatre Memphis

News Summary

Theatre Memphis premieres its first staging of the beloved Disney classic, Beauty and the Beast, featuring a modern twist on characters and sets. Directed by Amy Hanford, the show promises an emotional journey with a dynamic cast, including Ashley McCormack as Belle and Charles K. Hodges as the Beast. The production runs from September 2 to 25, offering a unique theatrical experience for audiences.

Exciting Debut of “Beauty and the Beast” at Theatre Memphis!

This weekend, the charming city of Memphis is set to experience a magical moment as Theatre Memphis unveils its very first staging of the beloved Disney classic, Beauty and the Beast. Fans of the tale are in for a delightful surprise as the production takes a unique twist, stepping away from the traditional cartoonish presentation to bring forth a more relatable and realistic depiction of the characters and their world.

A Fresh Take on a Timeless Classic

Director Amy Hanford has been hard at work crafting a version of the story that stays true to its roots while also feeling fresh and modern. Audiences can expect to see real-life characters and real-life sets that will add depth and authenticity to the beloved masterpiece. Hanford aims to infuse the performance with the fun and whimsy that make the story so enchanting while focusing on the emotional layers of the characters.

Dynamic Casting Choices

Leading the charge as the spirited Belle is Ashley McCormack. Having portrayed the character three times in various productions, McCormack is no stranger to embodying this iconic role. In this interpretation, audiences will see Belle as a strong-willed, passionate, and independent woman, setting a powerful tone for her character. Her excellent performance promises to draw viewers into Belle’s world and her journey of self-discovery.

The role of the Beast, portrayed by Charles K. Hodges, will capture a delicate balance of emotion. The director has guided Hodges to display anger in the first act while ensuring it is not overwhelming for the audience. This nuanced portrayal is expected to keep viewers engaged while deepening the dramatic tension of the storyline.

A Star-Studded Ensemble

The excitement doesn’t stop there! Around 150 talented individuals auditioned, shattering records at Theatre Memphis, with 30 performers ultimately being selected to take the stage. Among the cast, Jude Knight will assume the role of the endearing Mrs. Potts, performing the iconic title song, while Phillip Himebook steps into the shoes of the villainous Gaston, promising plenty of dramatic flair during the show.

Behind the Scenes Brilliance

No production is complete without a dedicated creative team, and jack Yates, an award-winning scenic designer, is at the helm. He has been entrusted with the task of bringing the magical castle and enchanting town to life, ensuring that the set design perfectly complements the vibrant storytelling. Additionally, former Ballet Memphis dancer Travis Bradley lends his expertise as the choreographer, adding flair and movement to the performances.

Show Dates and Ticket Information

The highly anticipated run of Beauty and the Beast is scheduled from September 2 to 25, with performances set to take place every Thursday at 7:30 PM, Fridays and Saturdays at 8 PM, and Sundays at 2 PM. Special matinee performances are also on the calendar for September 10, 17, and 24 at 2 PM. Get your tickets now! Priced at $30, special discounts are available—$15 for students, $25 for seniors, and also for military personnel, making it an accessible outing for everyone.

More Local Theatre Excitement

Beauty and the Beast, the local theatre scene is buzzing with energy. The Threepenny Theatre Company is offering a notable experience with its Beer Flight Theatre Nights, featuring works from renowned playwrights like Tennessee Williams and Edward Albee. There’s also fresh talent on the horizon with Quark Theatre, which plans to present powerful plays such as Blackbird and The Nether, alongside the anticipated CentreStage Theatre production of On the Waterfront next April.

Mark your calendars for this weekend’s enchanting performance at Theatre Memphis! It’s an event you won’t want to miss!

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Additional Resources

• The Daily Memphian: March Memphis Theater Guide
• Commercial Appeal: Theatre Memphis News
• Broadway World: Theatre Memphis Season Announcement
• Wikipedia: Theatre Memphis
• Google Search: Memphis Theater 2024